Technology

Biomet's AGC knee system is one of the most successful total joint replacements in history. The implant's excellent published clinical results display the AGC knee's proven technology and time-tested design. The technique of total knee resurfacing uses implants that replace damaged joint cartilage. Total knee implants are designed to enable you to regain knee function. stair climbing, rising from seat, and unassisted walking can be restored, while pain is significantly decreased or completely eliminated. Since 1983, the AGC knee has been helping people, like you, continue to lead active, productive lifestyles. The AGC total knee system is just one option available to you and your surgeon. Only your orthopaedic surgeon can determine if you are a candidate for this system.

The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is the most important ligament in the knee. Basketball, football and skiing are common activities that can tear or damage an ACL, resulting in a loss of stability in the knee. ACL reconstruction is the most common form of treatment for patients who require the use of a stable knee for high demand sports. To reconstruct your ACL, Dr. Schmidt uses the Bone Mulch Screw and WasherLoc Device from Arthrotek. These implants enable him to reconstruct an extremely strong ACL, which may enable you to return to your active sports and recreational activities. Typically, there are two options available when reconstructing the ACL. The new ligament material (graft) can be taken from one of your own tendons (autograft), or the graft can be taken from a tendon in the knee of a tissue donor (allograft). The reconstruction is performed arthroscopically, which uses tiny incisions to insert surgical tools and cameras into the knee joint. A small tunnel is drilled into the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shin bone). The graft is then fed into the tunnel, looped over the Bone Mulch Screw, and attached to the tibia using the WasherLoc Device. The entire procedure usually requires less than one hour to complete and is performed under general anesthesia.

The Autogenous Bone Coring System was developed by Dr. Schmidt in conjunction with Arthrotek. Harvesting the patients bone during ACL reconstruction and using those bone cores in the tunnels yields a stronger reconstruction that heals more rapidly. Dr. Schmidt and Arthrotek continue to develop innovative instrumentation to improve arthroscopic and sports medicine knee procedures.