At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we're dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced and effective treatments to help them recover from injuries and conditions that alter their quality of life. One area of medicine that has seen significant progress in recent years is orthopedic implant technology. With new materials, designs, and techniques, orthopedic implants are becoming safer, more durable, and more functional than ever before. In this post, we'll discuss some of the latest advancements in orthopedic implant technology and how they're helping patients get back to the activities they love.

Advancement #1: 3D Printing for Customized Implants

One of the most exciting recent advancements in orthopedic implant technology is 3D printing. This technology allows doctors to create customized implants that fit a patient's unique anatomy and needs. Using high-resolution imaging and computer modeling, doctors can design a custom implant that perfectly matches the patient's bone structure and joint mechanics. These implants can improve implant stability, reduce the risk of complications, and help patients recover faster. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, our Total Joint Clinic is designed to enable our patients to move freely with artificial joints, and we are exploring avenues to include this 3D printing technology into our clinic.

Learn more about our Total Joint Clinic here.

Advancement #2: Biodegradable Implants

Another emerging trend in orthopaedic implant technology is the development of biodegradable implants. These implants are designed to break down over time, gradually replaced by new tissue as the body heals. While still in the experimental stage, these biodegradable implants have the potential to reduce the risk of implant rejection, improve long-term outcomes, and eliminate the need for additional surgeries to remove the implant.

This technology is potentially revolutionary in that it falls in line with the increased use of minimally-invasive treatment in the world of orthopaedics, which MidAmerica Orthopaedics champions.

Advancement #3: Smart Implants

Smart implants are another exciting area of development in orthopedic implant technology. These implants contain sensors and microchips that can monitor the implant's performance and send data to doctors in real-time. This technology can help doctors identify potential problems before they become serious, track the healing process, and make adjustments to the patient's treatment plan as needed.

Advancement #4: Additive Manufacturing Techniques

Additive manufacturing is another area of innovation in orthopedic implant technology. This process uses 3D printing and other techniques to create complex geometries and surface textures that can improve implant performance and reduce the risk of complications. Additive manufacturing techniques can also reduce the production time and cost of implants, making them more accessible to patients.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we're excited about the potential of these advancements in orthopedic implant technology. Our team of skilled doctors and healthcare professionals is committed to staying at the forefront of the field, providing our patients with the best care possible. If you're considering orthopedic implant surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to learn more about how we can help you move freely again.