From the Research
To distinguish between a right and left DuPuy Attune knee implant femoral posterior stabilized component, look for the asymmetrical design features that correspond to natural knee anatomy, specifically the medial condyle size and position, as well as the posterior stabilizing box orientation, and check for direct labeling with "RIGHT" or "LEFT" markings 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The medial (inner) condyle of the femoral component is typically larger and extends further anteriorly than the lateral (outer) condyle. When viewing the implant from the front, the right knee implant will have its larger medial condyle on the left side of the component, while a left knee implant will have its larger medial condyle on the right side. Additionally, examine the posterior stabilizing box in the center of the component; its orientation is specific to either right or left anatomy. Most DuPuy Attune components also have direct labeling with "RIGHT" or "LEFT" markings, often accompanied by "R" or "L" engravings on the anterior portion or inner surface of the implant. If available, check the packaging or implant card which should clearly indicate the side. This side-specific design ensures proper anatomical fit, optimal patellar tracking, and appropriate biomechanics when implanted in the correct knee. It is essential to note that the provided studies, such as 1 and 4, focus on the clinical outcomes and comparisons of different knee implant systems, but they do not directly address the identification of right and left components. However, understanding the design and purpose of these implants, as discussed in 2 and 5, can help in identifying the correct side of the implant. In real-life clinical practice, it is crucial to prioritize the correct identification of the implant side to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Some key points to consider when identifying the correct side of the implant include:
- Asymmetrical design features corresponding to natural knee anatomy
- Medial condyle size and position
- Posterior stabilizing box orientation
- Direct labeling with "RIGHT" or "LEFT" markings
- Packaging or implant card indication of the side.