Sensor-Based Shoulder System for Joint Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shoulder replacement surgeries face challenges in determining proper joint tensioning and range of motion, leading to difficulties in selecting the correct prosthesis size and balancing soft tissues, which can result in suboptimal outcomes for both experienced and novice surgeons.
Innovation Solution
The integration of force-sensing devices and position-sensing technology into trial prostheses, coupled with a graphical user interface, provides quantitative feedback on joint tension and range of motion, enabling surgeons to make informed decisions during procedures and assess post-operative improvements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current surgical standards with un-quantified measures are used, then the procedure can be performed with simple tools, but the precision of joint tensioning and range of motion assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective mechanical assessment methods with objective sensor-based measurement systems. Force sensors and position sensors are integrated into trial prostheses to automatically quantify joint tension and range of motion, eliminating reliance on un-quantified surgical standards and surgeon experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback by displaying measured joint tension and range of motion data during the surgical procedure. This allows surgeons to immediately see quantitative results and adjust their technique accordingly, improving measurement precision without requiring complex pre-planned procedures.
2Loss of information
If trial prostheses with integrated sensors are used, then quantitative feedback on joint function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are integrated into trial prostheses to automatically detect and communicate joint function parameters during the procedure. The system provides real-time feedback displays showing force data and range of motion measurements, eliminating information loss about joint function while keeping the added complexity manageable through automated sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The trial prostheses with integrated sensors automatically perform measurement and data collection without requiring separate manual assessment tools or procedures. The system self-services the information gathering function, reducing the need for additional complex equipment and procedures.
3Measurement precision
If quantitative sensor-based assessment is implemented, then the accuracy of prosthesis selection is improved, but the surgical time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quantitative assessment is performed during the trial prosthesis insertion phase, which occurs early in the surgical procedure. By completing the measurement and selection process at this preliminary stage, the system avoids adding time later in the procedure and allows for immediate prosthesis selection based on objective data.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor-based measurement system operates continuously during the trial prosthesis testing phase, providing ongoing quantitative feedback without interrupting the surgical flow. This continuous measurement approach eliminates the need for separate time-consuming assessment steps and maintains productive use of surgical time.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The subject matter includes a system and method for providing graphical feedback visualizing forces within a joint through a range of motion of the joint. The method can comprise receiving position data, receiving force data, and generating a graphical representation based on the position data and the force data. The receiving position data can include data for at least one bone of a joint while the at least one bone is moved through a range of motion (ROM). The receiving force data can occur concurrently to receiving the position data and using one or more processors, the force data can be collected from at least one force sensor (140A, 140B, 300) embedded within a trial prosthesis (115, 130) in the joint. The graphical representation can illustrate changes in the force data versus locations of the bone as it moved through the ROM.