Stellar Knee uses mixed reality for surgical navigation and guidance. It guides TKA procedures by displaying measured and computed data overlaid directly in a 3D environment. The system acts as a spatial computer, creating continuous data exchange between the surgeon and software. Polaris says this enhances surgical decision-making while simplifying operating room workflow.
Polaris won FDA 510(k) clearance for the Stellar Knee system in November 2023 for use in TKA procedures. The first commercial case took place at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York.
“Stellar Knee represents a paradigm shift in the OR, as we aim to offer surgeons robot-like precision and real-time guidance throughout TKA procedures,” said Paul Mikus, CEO of Polaris. “Stellar Knee also fills a crucial gap in hospitals where existing robotic systems may already be in use. By seamlessly integrating into surgical workflows and delivering comparable precision in a mixed reality format, Stellar Knee ensures that every patient can now access the highest standard of care.”
Polaris said it designed Stellar Knee to provide precise control over intraoperative variables. It enables surgeons to optimize lower limb alignment, soft tissue balance, joint line maintenance and component positioning. The company says it can deliver more control than traditional instruments, navigation systems and first-generation augmented reality. Its implant-agnostic, imageless system offers more accessibility to surgeons, the company says.
The company plans to continue a commercial launch at leading U.S. institutions over the coming weeks.