Blue Belt Technologies, Inc. Announces First United Kingdom-Based NavioPFS Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Belt Technologies, Inc. announced the first NavioPFS unicondylar knee replacement (UKR) procedure performed in the United Kingdom, completed on October 26, 2012 by Mr. Alberto Gregori at Hairmyres Hospital in Scotland. The NavioPFS surgical system represents a new generation of smart instrumentation with robotic control. Blue Belt Technologies had completed its first surgery in Pellenberg, Belgium in July, 2012 and continues commercial expansion across Europe and now the UK.

"The system worked flawlessly and delivered an accurate placement and alignment of the prosthesis, one of our prime goals in knee replacement surgery," said Mr. Gregori, of Hairmyres Hospital.

Mr. Gregori continued, "We have successfully used navigation to optimally implant total knee prostheses for some 11 years but with the NavioPFS have now gone one step further and integrated bone preparation along with planning, and alignment into one seamless process in the operating theatre."

In treatment of the patient presenting with medial arthritis, the NavioPFS system provided CT-free intraoperative registration and planning, coupled with the proprietary Navio handpiece, a precision execution tool allowing accurate bone sculpting.

Commenting on the procedure, Eric B. Timko, President and CEO of Blue Belt Technologies, said, "We couldn't be happier with the initial clinical results of the NavioPFS system. With every new surgery, NavioPFS is establishing a consistent pattern of strong initial clinical outcomes with highly precise implant placement. We are excited to welcome Mr. Gregori to the team of Navio users, and are looking forward to further expanding throughout the United Kingdom as well as Europe."

Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.

Blue Belt Technologies, Inc. is developing the next generation of "smart" surgical instruments with precision robotics for use initially in orthopedic procedures and then for other surgical specialties, including neurosurgery, spinal and otolaryngology (ENT). The company's NavioPFS System incorporates patented technology to provide precise robotic control to surgeons via an intelligent, handheld, computer-assisted bone-cutting tool. The NavioPFS System provides the surgeon with a layer of safety and enhanced accuracy while performing bone-shaping tasks through minimally invasive incisions.

SOURCE Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.