KNEE SURGERY

Custom-made knee prosthesis

Every knee is unique. However, in the vast majority of cases of knee osteoarthritis operated on in France and around the world, a "made-to-measure" knee prosthesis is not necessary.

On the other hand, when the osteoarthritic knee presents unusual anatomical features, a custom-made knee prosthesis is an interesting solution. 

To date, there is no high level of proof that a custom-made knee prosthesis is superior to conventional implants.


knee picto

Why choose a made-to-measure knee prosthesis?

For example, a made-to-measure prosthesis can be discussed in the following situations:

  • Extreme size: an unusually small or large knee that cannot be fitted with a conventional prosthesis
  • An anatomical deformity as part of a constitutional bone disease (usually genetic diseases)

This is a solution that can be considered by your surgeon.

However, these situations remain exceptional.

planning a made-to-measure knee prosthesis

Planning a made-to-measure knee prosthesis

angular measurements for custom planning

Angular measurements made
for tailor-made planning

How is a custom prosthesis made?

There are several stages in the manufacture of a custom prosthesis:

  • A scanner of the knee is carried out according to a precise protocol to model the joint. This scan takes into account the knee as well as the centre of the hip and ankle to analyse the deformation of the leg (in the frontal or sagittal plane, etc.).
  • Based on this model an operating schedule is defined to correct any deformities, taking into account the patient's morphology. 
  • Dedicated software is used to propose a model for manufacturing the femoral part of the prosthesis by reproducing the shape of the patient's femur. 
  • From customised cutting edges (in 3D printing) are manufactured to position the prosthesis (the femur and the tibia) during the operation in the place agreed in the preoperative planning. 
  • The cutting guides and prosthesis are sterilised and sent to the surgical team.

This process is semi-automated. 

The prosthesis is made from the same materials as a conventional prosthesis.

What part of the prosthesis is made to measure?

A total knee prosthesis consists of three parts:

  • Femoral implant
  • Tibial implant
  • Patellar implant

In a custom-made knee prosthesis, only the femoral implant is manufactured to reproduce the patient's anatomy.

The tibial implant is adapted to the patient's morphology, but does not reproduce the anatomy of the tibia.

Finally, the patellar implant is a conventional implant in a custom-made prosthesis. 

creation and positioning of customised cutting guides

Design and positioning
customised cutting guides

Where to have an operation in Paris?

Our teams work in a number of leading establishments in Paris:

For consultations:

  • Espace Médical Vauban
  • IMSS - Institut Médical Sport Santé
  • ARAGO Clinic

For interventions:

  • ARAGO Clinic

You will be cared for by recognised specialists: Dr Kerboull, Dr Sailhan and Dr Zilber, experts in hip surgery.

clinical entrance

The custom-made knee prosthesis offers a solution for fitting a knee prosthesis in unusual or complex situations. The majority of patients do not need an implant of this type. The results are no better than with a conventional prosthesis.

Would you like to know if a custom-made prosthesis is right for you? Contact our specialists for a personalised assessment.

Contact us for a consultation

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to manufacture a custom-made prosthesis?

Approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the imaging tests.

Is it more durable than a standard prosthesis?

No, there is no difference in terms of the lifespan of the implant compared with a conventional prosthesis.

Is it reimbursed by social security?

Yes, it is taken care of.