The Inova Joint Replacement Center, in conjunction with the Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute and the Inova Research Center, completed a research project testing proprioception of our total knee replacement patients. We tested patients pre-operatively and one-year postoperatively to assess the influences of total knee replacement surgery on proprioception. This could lead to better performing knees with refinement of surgical techniques. The results of this study have been accepted for publication in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery.
Hip research has focused on studies of the longevity of artificial hip joints. Of particular importance are the studies of the bearing materials. Clinical trials of new materials, such as metal-on-metal, continue under the direction of the Inova Institute of Research and Education Review Board. These studies will provide patients and physicians with important new information as to expected hip joint longevity. They also will answer questions as to whether metal, ceramic or improved polyethylene is the most desirable weight-bearing surface material.