ZKR Orthopedics, Inc. has announced the successful performance of the first U.S. patella LIFT procedure at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) on September 19th, marking the initiation of its FDA PELICAN trial. This outpatient surgery, performed by Dr. Dennis C. Crawford, offers a novel approach to treating patellofemoral arthritis, a condition causing significant knee pain and functional limitations.
Patella LIFT Procedure: A Minimally Invasive Solution
The Patella LIFT procedure is designed to unload the patella, thereby relieving pain associated with patellofemoral arthritis and chondromalacia of the patella. Unlike more invasive surgeries such as tibial tubercle osteotomy or knee replacement, the Patella LIFT is a minimally invasive option that allows patients immediate range of motion and weight bearing, facilitating a faster return to daily activities.
Dr. Crawford noted, "The procedure went very smoothly, took under 45 minutes and the patient was able to begin weight bearing and motion immediately. This patient is a 41 year old woman who has been suffering for many years from painful arthritis behind her patella. This new procedure marks a significant advancement in orthopedic care."
PELICAN Trial: Design and Objectives
The PELICAN study is a prospective, controlled clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of the ZKR Patella LIFT Implant in patients with later-stage cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis of the patellofemoral joint. The trial will compare the outcomes of patients receiving the Patella LIFT Implant at centers in the United States to a control group undergoing tibial tubercle osteotomy procedures at various centers in Europe.
The primary endpoints of the PELICAN trial include patient-reported outcomes, safety measures, and radiographic confirmation. Secondary endpoints will assess pain levels, functional improvements, and the speed of recovery. The trial aims to demonstrate that the Patella LIFT procedure offers a less invasive and more cost-effective alternative to existing surgical options.
Prior Clinical Evidence
ZKR Orthopedics received FDA approval for its IDE trial in February 2024, based on the strength of a successful European pilot study conducted by Dr. Konrad Slynarski in Warsaw, Poland. This two-year study, involving 18 patients, demonstrated significant improvements in pain and function, particularly in activities such as stair climbing, squatting, and walking. Notably, patients were able to resume sports, including tennis, mountain biking, skiing, and hiking, following the ZKR implant.
Expanding Clinical Trial Network
OHSU is the first of four sites enrolling patients in the initial phase of the PELICAN trial. Additional sites include The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH, Alta Orthopedics in Santa Barbara, CA, and Horizon Clinical Research in San Diego, CA. The trial will eventually expand to include a total of 10 investigational sites in the U.S. and 10 in Europe.
Jeffrey Halbrecht, MD, CEO of ZKR Orthopedics, stated, "This is an exciting moment. Finally, patients with knee pain from patellofemoral arthritis and chondromalacia of the patella have a new treatment option that avoids more complex surgeries such as a tibial tubercle osteotomy or knee replacement."
