Conemaugh Memorial completes first "Gold" knee replacement

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and Conemaugh Physician Group – Orthopedics and Sports Medicine recently achieved another milestone in advanced orthopedic care with the completion of their first Stryker Triathlon® “Gold” knee replacement for a patient with a nickel allergy.

Despite its name and distinctive appearance, the implant is not actually made of gold. The Triathlon Gold knee features a titanium-based surface coating designed to provide a durable bearing surface while avoiding nickel exposure, offering another option for patients with end-stage knee arthritis and metal sensitivity. 

“This represents another important step in expanding the options available to patients who need joint replacement,” said Richard Goodrich, DO. “For patients with metal sensitivity, having an implant option designed to avoid nickel exposure can provide an additional consideration when planning their knee replacement.”

The Triathlon Gold knee adds to Conemaugh’s growing range of advanced joint-replacement options and surgical techniques, including:

• Mako robotic-assisted knee and hip replacements
• Direct anterior hip replacement
• Jiffy Knee® replacement
• Bikini/invisible-incision hip replacement techniques
• Anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using patient-specific custom cutting guides

These technologies and techniques reflect Conemaugh’s continued commitment to providing patients with advanced orthopedic care close to home.

“For patients dealing with severe joint pain and arthritis, access to advanced treatment options can make an important difference,” said Elizabeth Dunmore, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Conemaugh Health System. “We are proud to continue investing in technology, expertise and innovative surgical approaches that give patients throughout our region more options for restoring mobility and getting back to the activities they enjoy.”

With comprehensive orthopedic services and advanced joint-replacement capabilities, CPG-Orthopedics and Sports Medicine continue to bring cutting-edge orthopedic care to the region, helping patients receive specialized treatment without having to travel far from home.