Computer navigation is a technique to help improve the accuracy of the alignment of the knee replacement. Infrared trackers are attached to the thigh and shin bone and a computer map of the knee is generated. The trackers can then be attached to cutting guides and the computer can then help the surgeon position these with up to half a degree of accuracy. This allows for very precise bone cuts to be made.
The computer does not replace the surgeon but is is a very acurate tool to help ensure the best chance of a well aligned joint. It's a bit like comparing a GPS system to a map and compass.
The navigation adds very little cost to the procedure and makes the surgery less invasive. Should the navigation fail it does not preclude using older techniques.
Julian has been using computer navigation for his knee replacements for the last seven years. When Julian introduced knee navigation to New Plymouth, New Plymouth became one of the first peripheral centres to use this exciting technology. Julian has now accumulated a wealth of experience using this technique. He has been involved in assisting other surgeons wishing to use the technology. Currently Julian navigates all his replacement surgeries where possible.