Need Statement
There is a need for the development of a subcutaneous device to safely decrease instances of pseudarthrosis in patients of bone fusion surgeries.
Project Scope
Pseudarthrosis is a pervasive complication of bone fusion surgeries, both spinal and long-bone. There is a need for the development of a subcutaneous device to safely decrease instances of pseudarthrosis in patients of bone fusion surgeries. Direct current electrical stimulation (DCES) has been shown to decrease the likelihood of post-surgery pseudarthrosis; however, a subcutaneous, DCES solution does not yet exist on the market. We propose to develop an implantable, wireless stimulator attached to a pedicle screw which will deliver the stimulation to the site of fusion. The stimulator will safely provide a stable current output of between 5 and 200 µA for a minimum duration of three months and will pose no further complications to the surrounding tissue. A prototype of this solution will be completed and delivered by April 23, 2018.
There is a need for the development of a subcutaneous device to safely decrease instances of pseudarthrosis in patients of bone fusion surgeries.
Project Scope
Pseudarthrosis is a pervasive complication of bone fusion surgeries, both spinal and long-bone. There is a need for the development of a subcutaneous device to safely decrease instances of pseudarthrosis in patients of bone fusion surgeries. Direct current electrical stimulation (DCES) has been shown to decrease the likelihood of post-surgery pseudarthrosis; however, a subcutaneous, DCES solution does not yet exist on the market. We propose to develop an implantable, wireless stimulator attached to a pedicle screw which will deliver the stimulation to the site of fusion. The stimulator will safely provide a stable current output of between 5 and 200 µA for a minimum duration of three months and will pose no further complications to the surrounding tissue. A prototype of this solution will be completed and delivered by April 23, 2018.