New York City-based Hospital for Special Surgery completed the first knee replacement with a smart implant enabling remote monitoring.
Peter Sculco, MD, and Fred Cushner, MD, performed the procedure using the Persona IQ implant, according to an Oct. 12 news release. The device received de novo classification and authorization from the FDA in August.
The implant has a smart sensor that can count steps, measure walking speed, range of motion and other indicators of knee function after surgery. It wirelessly transmits data and works with the Mymobility app for patients.
"The smart knee uses the same material and technology found in implanted cardiac devices such as pacemakers," Dr. Cushner said in a news release. "It collects data every day during the first year following surgery, providing objective, accurate information on how the knee is functioning. Patient monitoring can continue for much longer, though, as the battery that powers the device was made to last at least 10 years."