At Texas A&M University, a pioneering development in veterinary orthopedics is making waves. The team of biomedical engineering seniors, led by Cole Mandrona and Sampriti Ramakrishnan, has introduced the Rev Knee, a custom canine knee implant designed to address complex knee injuries in dogs. This innovative solution aims to overcome the limitations of traditional knee implants by providing a tailored fit that enhances both functionality and recovery.
The Rev Knee methodology begins with uploading detailed CT scans of the dog’s knee joint into specialized software. This software meticulously recreates the unique tibial and femoral components of the joint, ensuring a precise match with the animal’s anatomy. Following this, a 3D model of the knee is printed, allowing for the creation of a bespoke implant that fits perfectly and accommodates the dog’s specific needs.
Current knee implants for animals typically rely on the integrity of the surrounding ligaments to maintain joint function. While effective to some extent, this approach can lead to complications if the ligaments are damaged or fail over time. The Rev Knee addresses this issue by offering a design that can function independently of the ligaments, thus reducing the risk of implant failure and improving long-term outcomes for canine patients.
Dr. Brian Saunders, an associate professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M, has supported this project through a collaborative initiative. This partnership between the veterinary school and the biomedical engineering department reflects a commitment to advancing both animal and human health. The team also consulted with industry professionals, including experts from DePuy Synthes, a leading orthopedics company under Johnson & Johnson. This collaboration provided valuable insights into the customization and functionality of orthopedic implants.
The Rev Knee’s design not only enhances joint stability but also offers improved mobility for dogs. The implant's ability to support and allow natural movement without relying on the ligaments is a significant advancement in veterinary orthopedics. This breakthrough could potentially transform the treatment of canine knee injuries, offering a more reliable and effective solution compared to existing models.
In addition to its focus on canine applications, the team has aspirations to adapt the technology for pediatric use. Dr. Balakrishna Haridas, a professor of practice in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and deputy executive director of the Southwest-Midwest National Pediatric Device Innovation Consortium, highlighted the potential for this technology to benefit children in need of knee replacements. The adaptation for pediatric patients would require modifications to account for growth and developmental changes, adding another layer of complexity to the project.
Overall, the Rev Knee represents a significant leap forward in veterinary medicine, combining advanced imaging, 3D printing, and innovative design to improve the quality of life for dogs with knee injuries. As this technology continues to evolve, it holds promise for broader applications, potentially extending its benefits to both human and animal patients. The project underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing cutting-edge solutions for complex medical challenges.
