Zimmer® Computer Assisted Solutions (CAS)
APPLICATION: Electromagnetic Tracking Quad-Sparing™
Zimmer Computer Assisted Solutions products include advanced tools and cutting-edge technologies that work with minimally invasive and traditional surgical procedures.
Zimmer® CAS tools are developed for both Zimmer Minimally Invasive Solutions™ (MIS™) and traditional procedures. CAS technology tracks, in real time, the location of surgical instrumentation.
Electromagnetic Navigation
Optical tracking that uses a camera to "flood" the surgical field with
infrared light is the most typical method used in computer-assisted
orthopaedic procedures. However, Zimmer and Medtronic -- Partners in CAS
Technology -- are setting new standards with devices that employ
electromagnetic (EM) tracking.
EM systems use a magnetic field to detect and track miniature Patient Trackers and instruments in space. The orientation and movement of the Tracker are measured in real time to show the relative positions of instruments to the relative anatomy. This second generation EM tracking technology eliminates “line of sight” issues associated with traditional optical systems.
EM tracking generates the ability to produce miniaturised computer tracking devices that can be placed in vivo to assist in MIS procedures. These tracking devices can be placed under the muscle in MIS Quad-Sparing™ knee arthroplasty, causing no secondary trauma to the patient. The introduction of EM will ease the transition to navigation and MIS with the creation of applications that are easy to use for all surgeons.
The applications place procedure-specific software, high-speed computer
technology, intelligent surgical navigation tools, and virtual (3-D)
navigation software in the surgeon’s hands. The technologies are designed to:
- Preserve and augment visualisation during minimally invasive procedures.
- Aid in precise placement of instruments.
- Assist in desired implant positioning.
- Eliminate radiation exposure to patient, physician and staff.
- Expedite the learning process for Zimmer MIS Procedures and traditional surgery.
- Enhance surgeon confidence in performing Zimmer MIS Techniques in real-time.
Go to the Med Zone to download a copy of the surgical technique.
