Intermed Labs and Marshall Health Network Introduce Kneedle LLC

A Revolutionary Device for Accurate Infection Detection in Knee Replacements

8/7/2024


HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Intermed Labs (IL), in collaboration with Marshall Health Network (MHN), has launched Kneedle LLC, a company featuring an innovative medical device designed to significantly enhance the detection of infections in joint replacement surgeries. The patent- pending device was co-invented by Ali Oliashirazi, M.D., professor and chair of orthopaedic surgery at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Alisina Shahi, M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Intermed Labs.  

Kneedle addresses the persistent challenge in the field of orthopaedic surgery of false negatives in infection detection post- joint replacement surgeries. Traditional methods can miss low-grade periprosthetic infections in up to 40% of cases, leading to delays in treatment and higher complications, according to Dr. Ali Oliashirazi.  

Kneedle’s design leverages advanced technology to provide more accurate and timely detection of infections, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the likelihood of missed diagnoses. By ensuring that infections are identified and treated promptly, Kneedle aims to decrease the need for additional surgeries and enhance the overall recovery experience for patients undergoing joint replacement procedures.  

“The Kneedle device may be a game-changer for both patients and health care providers,” said Oliashirazi, a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon at Marshall Health Network. “Our goal is to increase the accuracy of infection detection, reduce the number of false negatives and ultimately improve the quality of care for patients undergoing joint replacement surgeries.” 

Together, IL and MHN have created a device that not only addresses a critical need in orthopaedic surgery but also exemplifies the potential of collaborative efforts in driving medical advancements.  

“The partnership between IL and MHN has been instrumental in bringing Kneedle to life,” said Tom McClellan, M.D., CEO of Intermed Labs. “This device is a testament to what can be achieved when clinical insight and innovative technology come together.”  

As Kneedle prepares to enter the market, both Intermed Labs and Marshall Health Network are optimistic about the positive impact it will have on patient care and infection management in joint replacements. The launch of Kneedle marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to enhance surgical outcomes and improve the lives of patients worldwide.  

For more information, please visit Intermed Labs and Marshall Health Network. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Ali Oliashirazi, M.D., Marshall Health orthopaedic surgeon and professor and chair of the orthopaedics department at Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, showcases the knee joint area where the patent- pending device he co-invented will be used to more efficiently detect infections after joint replacement surgeries. 

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For media inquiries or further information, please contact:  

Michelle Hopkins  
Vice President, Special Projects and Outreach, Intermed Labs
michelle.hopkins@intermedlabs.com
304-692-6242  

Leah C. Payne
Director of Communications, Marshall University
leah.payne@marshall.edu
304-696-7153  

Michele McKnight
Assistant Director of External Affairs, Marshall Health / School of Medicine
mcknigh4@marshall.edu
304-691-1713  

About Intermed Labs (IL)  

Intermed Labs is an award-winning medtech startup studio focused on driving innovation in healthcare through advanced technologies and entrepreneurial talent. With a commitment to improving patient outcomes, Intermed Labs collaborates with leading institutions and empowers clinicians and researchers to turn their ideas into transformative solutions.  

About Marshall University  

Marshall University is a dynamic public research institution dedicated to academic excellence. With a strong emphasis on innovation and community engagement, Marshall University strives to improve lives through education, research, and service, tackling critical challenges in various fields, including healthcare.  

About Marshall Health Network 

Marshall Health Network, Inc. is a West Virginia-based not-for-profit academic health system that includes Marshall Health physician practice; four hospitals: Cabell Huntington Hospital, a 303-bed teaching hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center, a 413-bed teaching hospital, Hoops Family Children’s Hospital, a 72-bed pediatric specialty hospital within Cabell Huntington Hospital; and Rivers Health, a 101 acute-bed hospital, and the employed physician practices of the hospitals. Cabell Huntington Hospital is a teaching hospital for Marshall University Schools of Medicine, Pharmacy and Nursing, while St. Mary’s Medical Center operates St. Mary’s Schools of Nursing, Respiratory Care and Medical Imaging. 


Media Relations Contact

Michele McKnight
Assistant Director of External Affairs
304-691-1713 
mcknigh4@marshall.edu


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