Apparatus and method for assessing loads on adjacent bones
US7491179B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 30, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/0002
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus (10) that utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology to provide an in vivo assessment of loads on adjacent bones (24 and 26) comprises a body (34) for insertion between the adjacent bones. At least one sensor (42) is associated with the body (34). The sensor (42) generates an output signal in response to and indicative of a load being applied to the body (34) through the adjacent bones (24 and 26). A telemetric device (40) is operatively coupled with the sensor (42). The telemetric device (40) is operable to receive the output signal from the sensor (42) and to transmit an EMF signal dependent upon the output signal. According to various aspects of the invention, the sensor comprises a pressure sensor (42), a load cell (320), and/or at least one strain gauge (142).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.