Advancing Joint Replacement Care with Smart Knee Technology

Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies (OCR) is celebrating an exciting milestone for the Loveland Surgery and Recovery Center where they successfully completed the center’s first muscle sparing robotic knee replacement using smart knee technology.
Led by total joint replacement specialist at OCR, Dr. Michael McHugh, the smart knee implants represent an advancement in joint replacement by providing objective data that can offer greater insight into a patient’s recovery following surgery. Sensors within the technology can collect information related to a patient’s activity and progress, giving the care team another tool to better understand recovery beyond the walls of the clinic.
The procedure also incorporated robotic-assisted surgical technology and a minimally invasive approach. Robotic technology provides surgeons with detailed information to support precise planning and implant positioning based on each patient’s unique anatomy. When combined with minimally invasive surgical techniques, this technology allows the surgical team to perform the procedure with an emphasis on precision while minimizing disruption to the surrounding soft tissues.
“This technology gives us another powerful tool to support patients eager to return to the activities they enjoy. While we’ve performed robotic joint replacements for years, the Persona IQ Smart Knee represents an exciting next step in innovation and personalized care—right here in Northern Colorado” said Dr. McHugh.
For patients, this technology can provide an added level of connection throughout the recovery journey. Information collected by the smart knee can complement traditional follow-up appointments and rehabilitation, helping patients and their care teams track progress as they work toward returning to everyday activities.
“This recent procedure from Dr. McHugh and our surgical team is a great representation of the technological innovation we are making at OCR. We’re proud to bring these advancements to our community and continue raising the bar for orthopedic care,” said Wayne Fraleigh, OCR’s chief executive officer.
The successful procedure also represents OCR’s continued commitment to combining innovative technology with the expertise and personalized care of our orthopedic specialists. From preoperative planning and surgery to rehabilitation and long-term recovery, our joint replacement team works collaboratively to provide patients with comprehensive care at every stage.
As joint replacement technology continues to evolve, OCR remains focused on bringing meaningful advancements to the communities we serve—particularly those that can enhance the patient experience and provide valuable information throughout recovery.
Congratulations to our joint replacement team on this exciting first and an important step forward in the future of knee replacement care.
