OrthoSouth Surgeon Christopher Pokabla, MD Completes First Image-Guided Total Shoulder Replacement in the Greater Memphis Area

September 10, 2020, Memphis, TN – OrthoSouth is proud to announce the completion of the first CT-navigated total shoulder replacement in the Greater Memphis Area, performed by Dr. Christopher Pokabla at Methodist LeBonheur Hospital in Germantown, TN.   

Utilizing the ExactechGPS® Shoulder Application with 3-D Computed Tomography scans (CT scans), Dr. Pokabla received live visual feedback confirming the precise placement of tools and implants during the surgery.

For his practice, Dr. Pokabla believes image-guided navigation will help with implant placement during surgery, and especially with patients who have unusual shoulder anatomy.

“If there is something irregular or unexpected about a patient’s anatomy, I can work around that in real time and have confirmation that everything is where I intend it to be,” Dr. Pokabla stated.

“While orthopedic surgeons are typically very skilled at performing shoulder replacement the traditional way – with great results – anytime we can help guide the placement of implants intraoperatively, our precision will be enhanced.”

Dr. Pokabla proactively seeks innovative solutions for his patients with unique shoulder problems. The successful completion of the region’s first image-guided shoulder replacement is yet another case of his dedication to cutting edge care. Just last year, for example he had a completely customized, 3D-printed implant crafted for another shoulder replacement recipient.

Dr. Pokabla is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopic shoulder surgery and shoulder replacement. He practices at OrthoSouth’s Poplar Ave., Germantown, and Bartlett locations.

With eight clinic locations, extended hours, Saturday hours, same-day appointments, urgent care, 24/7 online appointment booking, and two ambulatory surgery centers, OrthoSouth is providing a new kind of healthcare experience to patients in the Mid-South, delivering world-class orthopedics combined with unprecedented accessibility and exceptional patient service.