This marks the first in vivo use of the Precision Knee Aligner (PKA) system, a major step forward in knee replacement surgery.
The Challenge in Knee Replacement Surgery
Total knee replacement is one of the most technically demanding orthopaedic procedures.
- Achieving accurate soft tissue balance is critical for long-term success.
- Traditionally, balancing relied on manual techniques such as tensor devices and gap gauges, leading to inconsistent outcomes.
- Even robotic systems have improved implant positioning but have not fully solved the balancing challenge.
The Precision Knee Aligner (PKA) System
The PKA system is a sensor-driven solution designed to:
- Provide real-time measurements of tibiofemoral force and load distribution.
- Allow surgeons to visualise load balance inside the knee during surgery.
- Guide better surgical decisions, such as patella positioning and ligament balancing.
This technology may significantly reduce the rate of postoperative dissatisfaction, which currently affects up to 20% of patients.
Clinical Validation and Research Findings
- Developed in collaboration with NHS Golden Jubilee’s orthopaedic experts, the system was tested in cadaver trials.
- The trials validated the sensor’s accuracy in measuring knee forces under standardised test conditions.
- The findings highlight the potential for greater precision and consistency in knee replacement procedures.
Impact on Orthopaedic Surgery
According to Dr Andrew Brunt, Orthopaedic Surgical Registrar at NHS Golden Jubilee:
“By visualising internal load distribution, surgeons can make more informed decisions that may reduce dissatisfaction and improve outcomes.”
Alistair Lawley, AI and Machine Intelligence Researcher at PPS, added:
“Our collaboration has transformed how knee replacements can be performed and experienced in the future.”
Looking Ahead: From Trials to Human Use
The PAS 2025 presentation represents a pivotal step toward first-in-human trials and potential commercial adoption of the PKA system. Beyond knee replacement surgery, PPS aims to expand its sensor technology to support a wide range of surgical applications, driving improvements in:
- Surgical precision
- Clinical insight
- Patient outcomes
