iForma^™ Knee Interpositional Device

The ConforMIS iForma is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis in either the inner (medial) or outer (lateral) compartment of the knee.

Each iForma is designed from a patient's own MRI scan. The diagnostic scan provides information about the shape and condition of the knee.  If you and your surgeon determine that you are a good candidate for the iForma, that data is then used to design a personalized implant.

The iForma slips into the knee between the thigh bone and the shin bone. Because of the personalized design, the iForma closely conforms to the natural shape of your joint, using the anatomic features to retain its proper position. No bone cuts or cartilage removal is required.

Once inserted, the iForma restores the geometry of your joint and realigns the knee. It also provides a smooth articulating surface for the end of your thigh bone, preventing painful bone-on-bone rubbing. Patients should be able to return to light to moderate activity after recovery and may delay the progression of disease due to improper loading of one compartment.

By preserving the joint, the iForma maintains the ability to safely move to more invasive knee replacement options at a later date, if one becomes necessary. This may be particularly important for patients considered too young for traditional knee replacement.

iForma Features:

• Treats mild-to-moderate osteoarthritic degeneration
• Manufactured for each patient based on information from their MRI scan
• Minimally invasive, minimally traumatic procedure
• 2-3 inch average incision length, typically a 40-60 minute procedure
• No bone cuts or articular cartilage removal required
• Preserves the ability to move to other treatment options in the future
• May result in less post-operative pain and faster recovery

The iForma Process:

If you and your surgeon believe that you may be a good candidate for an iForma, your surgeon will give you a prescription for a ConforMIS knee MRI scan. After reviewing the scan to ensure that you are indeed a good candidate, your surgeon will send in an order to produce the implant.  Your iForma should be available in approximately four weeks from receipt of the order.

Following surgery, your care will focus on swelling and pain management. You may wear a brace for a few weeks. Your surgeon will also prescribe exercises and activities to strengthen your knee muscles. Patients are generally able to walk and weight-bear within 2 weeks following surgery, but each patient is unique and only you and your surgeon can determine your tolerance and level of ability.  For optimal recovery, activities that stress the knee should be resumed slowly and as tolerated, allowing your knee adequate time to adapt to the implant.