WARSAW — Today, Zimmer Biomet launched the Vanguard individualized total knee arthroplasty implant system.

Based in Warsaw, Zimmer Biomet touted the knee as first of its kind, featuring two polyethylene bearings with different articulations on the medial and lateral side of the implant to allow surgeons to mix-and-match different bearings to personalize the procedure and preserve soft tissue.

“I believe that our newly released Vanguard individualized design will revolutionize total knee replacement. With the ability to fine-tune the knee’s balance through the use of independent medial and lateral bearing thickness and constraint options, we will arm the surgeon with the ultimate soft tissue-respecting capability,” global knee business GM Todd Davis said in prepared remarks.

“Maintaining natural ligament tension while preserving healthy soft tissue is critical not only to restore normal range of motion, but to achieve patient satisfaction. In traditional knee design, surgeons typically release healthy soft tissues in an attempt to balance the knee and maintain feasible kinematics. Because the Vanguard ID allows me to mix and match components, I am able to individually treat each compartment while maintaining healthy soft tissues. I personally feel that, by utilizing Vanguard ID and a soft tissue-respecting surgical technique, I’m achieving higher patient satisfaction,” added Dr. Tom Aleto of Columbia, Mo.’s Missouri Orthopedic Institute.

Last week, Zimmer Biomet said it picked up Dutch imaging company Clinical Graphics for an undisclosed amount. Clinical Graphics produces 3D range-of-motion simulation technology designed to aid in making treatment decisions for hip conditions which require early interventions, including femoracetabular impingement and dysplasia.

Zimmer Biomet said it plans to integrate the newly acquired imaging platform into its hip preservation portfolio.