Sensing force during partial and total knee replacement surgery

US8211041B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Synvasive Technology, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Michael G. Fisher · Blieskastel, DE
• Andrew P. Sizelove · Reno, US
• Keith R. Berend · New Albany, US
• David Wycliffe Murray · Mission Viejo, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 20, 2009
• Grant date: Jul 3, 2012
• Expiry date: Nov 17, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2002/4687
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods are provided for measuring forces in the space of a knee during surgery. Such forces can be caused by tension in the ligaments of the knee. A femoral member is engaged with a distal femur. While the knee is flexed, partially extended, or fully extended, a force sensor and a gauge shim can be placed in the gap between the femoral member and the tibial plateau to measure the forces therebetween. The force sensor provides an accurate and quantifiable measurement of force, making knee replacement surgery and ligament tension balancing more accurate, standardized and repeatable. The force sensor comprises an elongate housing which comprises a thin force sensing distal portion and a proximal handle portion.