The Technology
Arthritis is an increasing global problem with 10% of men and 18% of women having symptomatic osteoarthritis by the age of sixty. Consequently, the number of hip and knee replacements has increased rapidly in most OECD countries by 35% and 200% for hip and knee replacement surgeries respectively (between 2000-2013) reaching close to half a million surgeries per year each in the united states only. These number is even higher in the European Union, reaching close to 2 Million (each) surgeries a year. Although total knee replacements are available many people are living long enough to wear these out and they do not restore full biomechanical functionality.
Recent developments in bioprinting (such as bone/cartilage tissue engineering), introduce a possibility of creating smaller implants with a more anatomical shape, yet it requires the ability to freehand machine bone surface into a much more complex shape that is not planar or spherical that would fit the implant. By utilizing a more anatomical shape, bone lost to machining can be minimized, while simultaneously reducing the surgical exposure. Robotic surgery and 3D printing are thus promising solutions.
The present invention relates to a miniature bone mounted robot configured to perform minimally invasive orthopedic surgery coupled with regenerative three-dimensional bio-printing technology to restore cartilage and affected bone. The robot uses a sensor device attached to a holder affixed to the robot activated arm, to map the three-dimensional surface of the bone surface to be treated. This robot will enable to support the new generation of total joint replacement surgeries.
Advantages
- Minimally invasive
- Enables biological implants
Applications and Opportunities
- Orthopedic surgery
- Knee replacement
- Hip replacement
- Bone printing
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