#USA #Gainesville #Orthopedic Surgery #Exactech #GPS Ankle

The Dawn of a New Era in Ankle Surgery

Exactech, a leading player in the medical technology arena, has recently made waves with the announcement of its first surgeries utilizing the pioneering ExactechGPS® Ankle system. This technology is specifically designed for total ankle replacements and showcases a significant leap forward in surgical navigation.

The inaugural procedure using the GPS Ankle was performed by Dr. Edward Haupt of Mayo Florida in Jacksonville, marking an important milestone in orthopedic surgery. Dr. Haupt expressed his pride in being the first surgeon to employ this groundbreaking technology, stating that it enhances the precision of executing surgical plans. "This vital new product demonstrates the remarkable achievements of our surgeon design team at Exactech and, in collaboration with Blue Ortho, promises to enhance the overall surgical experience for both practitioners and patients."

Exactech President and CEO Darin Johnson highlighted the company's unwavering dedication to offering innovative solutions. He noted, "The launch of GPS Ankle highlights our ongoing commitment to providing industry-leading smart technologies for surgeons and their patients. GPS Ankle and our entire suite of Active Intelligence® technologies are aimed at transforming the surgical landscape to enable better patient outcomes."

The GPS Ankle system seamlessly links preoperative planning with real-time intraoperative guidance. Designed to improve accuracy, it operates within a tolerance of 2mm and 2 degrees in relation to the CT-surgical plan. By integrating CT visibility, the system may also reduce the overall fluoroscopy time, enhancing both the efficiency and safety of ankle replacement surgeries.

Developed by Blue Ortho, a subsidiary of Exactech, the GPS Ankle employs cutting-edge active tracker technology along with a touch-enabled tablet within the sterile field. This allows surgeons to receive dynamic feedback during procedures, which is crucial in maintaining precision. The system is compatible with the renowned Vantage® Total Ankle System and integrates seamlessly into the existing Active Intelligence network, providing surgeons with affordable, data-driven solutions.

Dr. James Nunley, another key player in the development of GPS Ankle, shared his enthusiasm: "As one of GPS Ankle's design team surgeons, it's fulfilling to confirm that the product we’ve worked on can genuinely make a surgical difference. The intraoperative flexibility to validate resections and to alter implant variables makes this not just an advantageous tool, but a game-changer for enhancing patient care."

Looking ahead, the GPS Ankle technology is scheduled for broader availability to hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) early next year, without requiring capital costs upfront. This initiative underscores Exactech's strategic approach to making advanced surgical solutions accessible while maintaining affordability for healthcare facilities.

In a field where precision and accuracy play pivotal roles in patient outcomes, the launch of ExactechGPS® Ankle represents a promising advancement for surgeons specializing in ankle replacements. Those interested in discovering more about the GPS Ankle technology can connect with their local Exactech representative or visit Exactech's official website.

Overall, this revolutionary technology may lead to a future in ankle surgery where the merger of surgical expertise and innovative technology provides even better results for patients, enhancing their quality of life profoundly.

Conclusion

The introduction of the ExactechGPS® Ankle system is not just another product launch; it's a transformative step forward for orthopedic surgery. By prioritizing precision and patient outcomes, Exactech is paving the way for the future of surgical advancements, setting a new standard within the industry. As this technology gains traction, it's anticipated that innumerable patients will benefit from improved surgical experiences and results.