Compare strain measurements to assess strains at specific flexion angles. Compare strains with time to determine whether strain changes in the bone can be accurately followed by monitoring the hardware. Collect and compare strain measurements with the telemetry system and a hardwired system to assess accuracy of the telemetry system. Test system in rat model. Prepare unit for implantation into human subjects.
Additional research focuses on the in vivo wear undergone by polyethylene knee inserts.
These inserts are implanted in humans for total knee replacement and undergo varying amounts of degradation over time, depending on such factors as weight, age, and activity level of the patient, and eventually need to be replaced. Two interrelated projects in the lab are being conducted, one on the retrieved inserts and the other on synovial fluid extracted from the patients' knees at time of insert removal. Look for contaminants in the fluid and determine ways to reduce them. Look for ways to automate the particle counting and characterization process. Evaluate debris from 6 wear simulator studies at Depuy.