Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral performed the landmark surgery using Pixee augmented reality (AR) technology, which provides real-time visual guidance for surgeons during knee replacement procedures.
The procedure was carried out by consultant hip and knee surgeon Alan Highcock, who said the AR technology has the potential to improve accuracy and patient outcomes.
Mr Highcock said: “Revision knee replacement surgery is among the most complex procedures we perform, and precision is absolutely critical.
“Being able to use augmented reality technology in real time allows us to visualise alignment and positioning with an unprecedented level of accuracy.
“To perform the UK’s first revision total knee replacement using Pixee AR is an exciting milestone, and one that ultimately supports better outcomes for patients undergoing challenging revision surgery.”
Pixee Medical’s system overlays digital information onto the surgeon’s view of the operating field, helping to guide decision-making and improve the placement of implants.
Unlike traditional computer-assisted or robotic systems, Pixee AR does not require bulky equipment or invasive markers, streamlining the surgical process.
The AR technology helps surgeons achieve accurate alignment (Image: Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral)
Mr Highcock said: “Augmented reality has the potential to change how complex orthopaedic surgery is performed.
“Using Pixee AR in revision knee replacement allows surgeons to combine experience with real-time visual guidance, supporting more informed intraoperative decision-making.
“I’m proud to be leading the UK’s first revision TKR using this technology at Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral.”
Revision knee replacements are particularly demanding, as they involve correcting or replacing previous implants and dealing with altered anatomy.
The use of AR aims to improve accuracy, personalise surgical approaches, and potentially reduce the need for more invasive navigation tools.
Spire Murrayfield Hospital Wirral said it remains committed to exploring and adopting the latest medical innovations to enhance patient care and surgical outcomes.