Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, and is caused by wear and tear of protective joint cartilage over time. While there is no currently known cure for OA, there are several treatment options available to patients. Among them is Moximed‘s newly developed implant designed to relieve excess load on the afflicted joint. While the California-based company’s KineSpring Knee Implant System is currently only designed as a knee implant, the technology could be adapted for other commonly afflicted joints in the future. The procedure is designed to be the first step in invasive OA treatment, as it does not alter the anatomy of a patient. On the contrary, the KineSpring system can prolong the usefulness of an afflicted joint and delaying the need for knee replacement surgery.
At the core of the technology is a spring loaded system designed to function alongside the existing knee anatomy. According to Moximed’s website, “As the knee extends, the spring compresses and absorbs joint overload. As the knee flexes, the spring relaxes and becomes passive.” The procedure is fully reversible, and largely noninvasive, making it a particularly attractive option for physically active OA patients. Although this technology is designed to be an option for OA patients, it is not designed to be a permanent solution. It is intended to put off invasive surgery for as long as possible, however eventually it is intended to be removed.
Product Page: KineSpring Knee Implant System: A First Surgical Option…