University of Tennessee Research Foundation

Ut-battelle, Inc.

Depuy Orthopaedics, Inc.

Depuy Products, Inc.

Douglas A Dennis

Richard David Komistek

Mohamed Rashwan Mahfouz

Thomas George Thundat

Stephen A Hazebrouck

Anthony D Zannis

Bryan J Smith

Gary D Barnett

Matthew Smith

Boyd Mccutchen Evans

William R Hamel

Gary To

Richard Komistek

Joel T Outten

Image tracking systems, and corresponding methods, are described. In some embodiments, conventional imaging components are placed on a platform having wheels, thereby providing a mechanism for imaging a moving subject. In other embodiments, conventional imaging components are situated on non-parallel rails, and moved along those rails, thereby providing a mechanism for imaging an anatomical region of a subject as that region moves in two dimensions. For yet other embodiments, image recognition and tracking approaches are provided to track the movement of a non-stationary anatomical region. The tracking of the non-stationary anatomical region permits imaging of a moving anatomy. For some embodiments, the anatomy moves within its normal range of motion.

Method and apparatus for imaging tracking

A device for providing in vivo diagnostics of loads, wear, and infection in orthopedic implants having at least one load sensor associated with the implant, at least one temperature sensor associated with the implant, at least one vibration sensor associated with the implant, and at least one signal processing device operatively coupled with the sensors. The signal processing device is operable to receive the output signal from the sensors and transmit a signal corresponding with the output signal.

In-vivo orthopedic implant diagnostic device for sensing load, wear, and infection

A flexion gap instrument is configured to mate with a ligament tensioning tool, such as known distraction devices and pivoting knee balancers. The instrument facilitates making A/P resections in the femur for placement of a femoral prosthesis component to maintain an optimum symmetric flexion gap, which will avoid the risk of medial or lateral laxity in flexion, instability of articulating component dislocation. The instrument includes a base that is configured to sit within the ligament tensioning device, and a vertically extending upstanding portion that is configured to mate with a cutting block or other knee arthroplasty instrument that must be positioned relative to the distal end of the femur. The upstanding portion includes a measurement plate that bears a scale indicating a flexion gap distance. The scale can be used to orient and align the cutting block in its proper position relative to the distal end of the femur, and to orient the cutting block parallel with the tibial plateau with the ligaments properly and equally tensed. In certain embodiments, a leaf spring can be incorporated into the upstanding portion to help support the cutting block and provide a mechanism for temporarily positioning the cutting block on the flexion gap instrument without the need for additional or supplemental locks.

Instruments and methods for flexion gap adjustment

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Littleton, CO, United States of America

Douglas A Dennis