Medacta’s MiniMAX Hip Stem Launched in U.S.

Medacta International announced the introduction of the MiniMAX Hip System into its U.S. product portfolio. The MiniMAX is an anatomical cementless stem that is engineered to provide enhanced fit and fill in the metaphyseal femur by following the natural shape of the femoral canal with a unique curved design, ideal for both minimally invasive anterior and posterior hip replacement procedures. The launch follows the successful first stateside surgery utilizing the stem, which was performed by David Scott, M.D., of Spokane, Wash., on September 12.
 
“The MiniMAX Hip Stem is a very versatile product. It was built as an addition to the product range of stems and instruments dedicated to our AMIS (Anterior Minimally Invasive Surgical) approach to hip replacement, but it also works with posterior techniques, providing surgeons with even more flexibility,” said Francesco Siccardi, executive vice president of Medacta International. “Our partners in Europe and Australia have had extremely positive experiences with the implant, and we’re excited to offer it as another option for surgeons in the United States.”
 
The MiniMAX Hip Stem aims to reduce risk and postoperative pain for patients while making it easier for surgeons to introduce it into the femur. The MiniMAX’s lateral flare design minimizes fracture, and its nine degrees of neck anteversion can provide more joint stability and reduce the risk of dislocation. The short, thin tip with five degrees of curvature lowers the risk of thigh pain caused by distal interference. The implant’s proximal titanium plasma spray and hydroxyapatite coating provide enhanced proximal fixation.
 
“I was impressed with how well the MiniMAX Hip Stem replicates the natural anatomy of the human hip, rather than having the patient’s anatomy conform to the shape of the implant, like many other popular models,” said Dr. Scott. “Pairing the MiniMAX with a minimally invasive approach made for an efficient, effective procedure and my patient is recovering well.”
 
First introduced in Europe in 2007, the MiniMAX Hip Stem is associated with proven clinical results, obtaining a survival rate at 5 years of 97.5 percent considering revision for any reason and 100 percent considering aseptic loosening as endpoint, according to internal Medacta research.
 
John Masonis, M.D., of Charlotte, N.C., will perform a live surgery using Medacta’s AMIS platform to implant the MiniMAX Hip Stem at the 6th Annual ICJR Anterior Approach Hip Course on Thursday, Oct. 19 at noon Central.
 
“Surgeons attending the live surgery will receive education on the surgical and patient processes associated with the anterior approach to hip replacement and while doing so, will be able to see the MiniMAX stem and AMIS platform in clinical practice for themselves,” said Dr. Masonis.