Study Examines Evidence to Support Use of New Hip and Knee Implants

A review of the literature regarding several new and widely used hip and knee implants published in the latest BMJ suggests that there is limited evidence to support claims of clinically relevant improved benefits as compared to older, more established implants. “We did not find convincing high quality evidence supporting the use of five substantial, well known, and already implemented device innovations in orthopaedics. Moreover, existing devices may be safer to use in total hip or knee replacement. Improved regulation and professional society oversight are necessary to prevent patients from being further exposed to these and future innovations introduced without proper evidence of improved clinical efficacy and safety,” stated the study’s authors. Full article.