Intramedullary Lengthening Implant With Real-Time Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable bone adjustment systems lack real-time feedback on forces applied, which can lead to health risks and the need for invasive imaging for adjustment protocols.
Innovation Solution
Implants with integrated load sensors that provide real-time feedback on applied forces, allowing for more aggressive adjustment protocols and reducing the need for imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If invasive imaging is used for adjustment protocols, then bone movement can be monitored, but patient health risks increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive imaging systems with an integrated load sensor system that mechanically measures forces applied during bone adjustment. The load sensor detects compression forces directly within the implant, eliminating the need for repeated X-rays or other invasive imaging procedures that expose patients to radiation and increase health risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The load sensor acts as an intermediary measurement device between the adjustment mechanism and the bone. Instead of directly imaging bone movement through invasive procedures, the sensor indirectly measures the forces transmitted through the implant during adjustment, providing sufficient data for monitoring bone movement and guiding adjustment protocols.
2Measurement precision
If invasive imaging is used for adjustment protocols, then bone movement can be monitored, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from complex external imaging systems and integrates it directly into the implant structure. The load sensor is embedded within the implant housing, separating the measurement function from the adjustment mechanism while simplifying the overall system by eliminating external imaging equipment and associated complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the load sensing function with the implant structure itself. The load sensor is integrated into the housing and positioned to detect forces during adjustment, combining measurement capabilities with the mechanical structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate, complex imaging systems and reduces overall device complexity.
3Productivity
If more aggressive adjustment protocols are used, then treatment effectiveness increases, but health risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the load sensor continuously monitors forces applied during adjustment and transmits this data externally. This real-time feedback allows clinicians to adjust protocols dynamically, enabling more aggressive adjustments when safe and reducing intensity when risks arise, thereby optimizing treatment effectiveness while minimizing health risks through data-driven decision-making.
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
Enhances patient outcomes by providing adaptable bone positioning, reducing health risks, and enabling more aggressive adjustment protocols without relying on imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic actuator configured to be actuated by a magnetic field external to the patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include implants and related methods for moving bone. Certain implementations include an implant for moving bone in a patient's body, the implant including: an implantable biocompatible housing; a first adjustment rod at least partially overlapping the implantable biocompatible housing; a driver configured to drive the first adjustment rod to enable movement of the first adjustment rod relative to the housing; and a load sensor positioned within the housing and configured to indicate a load applied by the driver on the first adjustment rod.