Edgewood, KY – St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Commonwealth Orthopaedic Centers are bringing the latest image-based surgical navigation software to Northern Kentucky. The Radlink GPS with Surgeon’s Checklist™ software provides non-invasive feedback and verification of implant component measurement and positioning during surgery.

“This technology allows us to recreate the length of the patient’s leg and achieve more normal and natural anatomy to match their upper thigh,” said Dr. Jonathon Spanyer, a joint replacement specialist at Commonwealth Orthopaedic Centers.

The software uses X-ray images and mathematical data analysis to assist surgeons in real time, allowing the surgeon to make faster decisions on component positioning, leg length correction and femoral offset guidance. Using this technology ensures each patient’s implant will be catered to his or her unique anatomy.

“Previously an X-ray was obtained, and then using the naked eye and approximation, the position of components was determined,” explained Dr. Spanyer. “Now, Radlink gives us the ability to more precisely place components – especially the hip stem and hip cup in hip replacement surgery.”

Before an operation, surgeons also can plan each case using Radlink’s built-in digital templating software, which allows them to compare pre-operative images to images taken during the surgery. 

“The partnership between St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Commonwealth Orthopaedics continues to expand the technology and continues to improve outcomes for patients related to joint replacement surgery,” said Dr. Spanyer. “I’m very much looking forward to seeing what we can do with this technology.”

Radlink GPS does not require arrays or invasive ex-pins. It also improves the quality and accuracy of implant placement and may reduce the risk of dislocation following surgery.