New knee implant aims to unload pain without replacement

NCT ID NCT02934659

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tested the Atlas Knee System, a device implanted outside the knee joint to reduce pressure on the inner knee, in 50 people with medial knee osteoarthritis. The goal was to see if it safely relieves pain and improves function over 24 months. Participants were followed for improvements in pain, daily activities, and knee movement, while monitoring for complications.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Atlas Knee System (a device implanted outside the knee joint capsule to reduce load on the inner knee)

What this could lead to

If successful, this device could offer a new way to relieve pain and improve function for people with knee osteoarthritis, potentially delaying or avoiding knee replacement surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early pilot study with only 50 participants and no comparison group. The device is surgically implanted, which carries risks like infection or device-related problems. Long-term benefits and safety are not yet proven.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

osteoarthritis, knee

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix

    Phoenix, Arizona, 85006, United States

  • Brigham and Women's Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02130, United States

  • Duke University

    Durham, North Carolina, 27705, United States

  • Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)

    New York, New York, 10021, United States

  • Houston Methodist

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

  • Ohio State University

    Columbus, Ohio, 43202, United States

  • Oregon Health and Science University

    Portland, Oregon, 97239, United States

  • Orthropaedic Research Foundation

    Greenwood, Indiana, 46143, United States

  • University of Virginia, Dept. of Orthopaedic Surgery

    Charlottesville, Virginia, 22908, United States