Ohio State researchers are studying a new device designed to relieve knee pain and prevent or delay knee replacements.
Mike Foley reports.
Ohio State University's Wexner Medical Center is one of only four sites taking part in a clinical trial examining the Calypso Knee System, which treats osteoarthritis in the inner knee. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. David Flanigan says the implanted device works like a schock absorber, creating a cushion similar to what cartilage provides a healthy joint.
"Take some of that load off that inner portion of the knee and allow that patient to have increasing function, less pain, and really to delay a total knee arthroplasty for hopefully years."
More than 700,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed in the U.S. every year, and that number continues to climb. Flanigan says the device could help reverse that trend, helping more people avoid joint replacements and preserve their knees. Researchers will study about 80 participants who receive the implant. If successful, Flanigan expects the device could soon be available to patients across the country. More information about the clinical trial can be found here.
