[Modified robotized hydraulic tensor for ligament balance in total knee arthroplasty].

Objective: To investigate a modified robotized hydraulic tensor for management of the ligament balance in the total knee arthroplasty.

Methods: The effect of the modified robotized hydraulic tensor on the mechanical behaviour of the ligament system balance in the total knee arthroplasty was analyzed and the related information was obtained.

Results: The robotized hydraulic tensor acted as a tensor-sensor system, which could assist the surgeon by providing the quantitative information to align the lower limb in extension, equalize the articular spaces in extension and flexion, balance the internal and external forces, and define the femoral component rotation, and by providing the information to plan the releasing of the soft tissues and the rotating of the femoral component.

Automated hydraulic tensor for Total Knee Arthroplasty.

To obtain a long lifespan of knee prosthesis, it is necessary to restore the alignment of the lower limb. In some cases of severe arthrosis, the ligament envelope of the joint may be deformed, inducing an asymmetric laxity once the lower limb is realigned. Because there is not yet unanimity regarding how to optimally measure or implement soft tissue balance, we provide a means to acquire a variety of measurements.

CASPER, a Computer ASsisted PERicardial puncture system: first clinical results.

Pericardial puncture is the percutaneous insertion of a needle into the pericardial space to drain a pathological pericardial effusion. The challenge for the operating surgeon is to reach percutaneously a target zone in the vicinity of the mobile heart, in a soft-tissue environment. The surgeon's ability to accomplish this depends on his own mental picture of the effusion.