Integrated Force-Sensing Surgical Implant for Real-Time Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current post-operative evaluation methods for surgically repaired regions, such as joints or fractures, rely on intermittent radiographic imaging, which lacks patient-derived data, has poor inter- and intra-observer reliability, and exposes patients to ionizing radiation, leading to potential health risks and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A surgical implant equipped with integrated sensors that measure forces exerted on the implant, a wireless transmitter, and a power supply to transmit real-time biomechanical data externally, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of implant integrity, alignment, and healing progress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If intermittent radiographic imaging is used for post-operative evaluation, then implant integrity can be assessed at follow-up appointments, but patients are exposed to ionizing radiation and imaging costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radiographic imaging (mechanical/physical imaging system) with an implanted sensor system that directly measures mechanical forces and loads on the implant. The sensor elements (strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, or capacitive sensors) convert mechanical stress into electrical signals, eliminating the need for external radiation-based imaging while providing continuous real-time data on implant integrity and bone healing progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensor elements as intermediary devices implanted within or on the surgical implant itself. These sensors act as mediators that directly sense mechanical conditions (forces, loads, strain) at the implant site and transmit this information externally, providing a direct measurement pathway that bypasses the need for indirect radiographic assessment and eliminates radiation exposure.
2Reliability
If intermittent radiographic imaging is used for post-operative evaluation, then implant assessment can be performed at follow-up appointments, but diagnostic accuracy and timing are limited by appointment convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring by implanting sensor elements that operate continuously throughout the post-operative period. The sensors continuously measure forces and loads on the implant, and the transmitter continuously or periodically sends this data to external receivers, eliminating the intermittent nature of radiographic imaging and providing uninterrupted real-time information on implant status and healing progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where sensor elements continuously measure implant conditions, the data is transmitted externally, and clinicians receive real-time information about implant integrity and bone healing. This feedback mechanism enables timely detection of complications and adjustment of rehabilitation protocols based on actual physiological conditions rather than scheduled appointments.
3Ease of operation
If sensor elements are disposed entirely within the surgical implant, then non-invasive monitoring is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensor elements, transmitter, and power supply into a single integrated implantable unit that is incorporated within or on the surgical implant. This consolidation combines multiple functional components (sensing, transmission, and power) into one cohesive device, reducing the number of separate implantable components and simplifying the overall implant procedure while maintaining non-invasive monitoring capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time, non-invasive monitoring of implant integrity, alignment, and healing, reducing radiation exposure and improving diagnostic accuracy through continuous data collection and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more sensor elements are selected from the group consisting of a piezoelectric sensor, a piezoresistive sensor, a capacitive sensor and any combination thereof
Implementation Method 2
the one or more sensor elements are selected from the group consisting of a piezoelectric sensor, a piezoresistive sensor, a capacitive sensor and any combination thereof
Implementation Method 3
the one or more sensor elements are selected from the group consisting of a piezoelectric sensor, a piezoresistive sensor, a capacitive sensor and any combination thereof
Implementation Method 4
a power supply operably coupled to the one or more sensor elements and the transmitter, the power supply adapted to harness energy wirelessly
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a surgical implant that allows for postoperative monitoring of said implant and an associated surgical site, such as a surgically-repaired joint, and methods of using same.