SMART IMPLANTS 2018/I

With this new series of short publications MedDEV News wants to introduce various concepts of SMART IMPLANTS. We will start with a spinal implant that has the possibility to reduce post-operative CT scans.

Smart Spinal Implant indicates Progress in Fusion 

MedDEV News (ZYK). Intellirod Spine’s innovative wireless strain monitoring system will provide spine surgeons objective data on rod strain as they assess postoperative fusion progress. This new strain data in conjunction with current methods has the potential to improve outcomes and lower postoperative healthcare costs.

The patented Intellirod System includes a titanium/zirconia ceramic, strain sensing device, which includes radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, intended to enable access to strain measurement values, incorporating a passive transponder, inserter and scanner. The transponder attaches to any commercially available, corrective spinal system using 5.5 mm cobalt chrome or titanium alloy rods in corrective spinal surgeries. The transponder is used only to acquire rod strain values and a unique device identification code, which is read by the scanner, providing objective readings of the mechanical strain during the correction to be used in conjunction with standard of care clinical and radiographic assessments. 

Intellirod Spine was founded by renowned spine surgeon Rolando M. Puno, M.D. and professors from the University of Louisville. The company is developing a wireless implantable microelectronic spinal rod strain sensor. This innovative strain monitoring system will allow spine surgeons to objectively assess the strain on implanted spinal fusion rods.