Microfluidic force sensor revolutionises hip replacement surgeries

With the recent creation of a microfluidic force sensor that aids in the stability of soft tissues and positioning of the implant, hip replacements have the potential to maintain their function for much longer.

Currently, hip replacements tend to hold up at a relatively successful rate of almost 90% after 15 years. However, by the time it reaches 25 years, the success drops to less than 60%. The main dilemma surrounds the fact that recipients of hip replacements are becoming younger with a higher average level of physical activity, therefore the implant itself experiences a greater strain and needs to be more hardwearing.

The microfluidic force sensors should lessen the need for subsequent corrective procedures, according to Professor Sohini Kar-Narayan of Cambridge University and Vikas Khanduja, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Addenbrooke’s Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Khanduja commented that “This is a key clinical unmet need, particularly for the hip joint. Improper implant positioning, where forces on the implant are not balanced, can lead to premature wear and necessitating complex and expensive revision procedures.”

“Integrating sensors within the trial liners during surgery will provide real-time objective feedback to facilitate soft tissue balancing and accurate implant placement, thereby potentially prolonging the longevity of the implant.”

ArtioSense Ltd will be commercializing the smart sensor-embedded trial liners, which will help surgeons by providing live measurements to decide the best force-balanced position for the implant.

Kar-Narayan outlined the benefits of the sensors in their technology which is made “attractive to both the surgeon, as well as the implant manufacturers. The sensors will be fabricated from inexpensive materials so will not add significantly to costs.”

“The technology is versatile and customisable, and can be applied to similar use in other joints such as the knee, shoulders and ankles and could be adapted for use in veterinary surgery as well.”