Problem/Issue Being Addressed
The project addresses the need for an efficient and low-cost solution for bone reconstruction, particularly for patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Large bone defects resulting from trauma, infection, or tumour resection often require complex surgical procedures and expensive medical devices for reconstruction, which are not readily accessible or affordable in resource-limited settings.
Importance for Society
Providing an affordable and effective bone reconstruction solution has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for patients in LMICs who suffer from large bone defects. Due to financial constraints, these patients often face limited access to advanced medical treatments, leading to long-term disabilities and reduced mobility. By developing a low-cost intramedullary nail, the project aims to make this life-changing treatment accessible to a broader population, particularly in underserved communities.
Overall Objectives
The project's primary objective is to design, manufacture, and test a novel intramedullary nail that can facilitate the reconstruction of large bone defects through bone transport. The specific objectives include:
1. Developing a distraction mechanism within the nail that can achieve an adjustable rate under physiological forces, allowing for gradual bone regeneration.
2. Optimising the design through computer simulations to ensure the nail can withstand in situ forces and allow for a certain level of patient activity during the distraction process
3. Manufacturing prototypes using conventional machining to explore low-cost production methods suitable for LMICs.
4. Conducting mechanical testing to evaluate the strength and performance of the manufactured nails.
5. Performing an in vivo study on sheep to validate the bone distraction process and reconstruct a large bone defect, serving as proof of concept.
In conclusion, a novel intramedullary nail that can provide an effective and affordable solution for bone reconstruction, particularly benefiting patients in resource-limited settings, was developed by successfully achieving most of these objectives. The fellow has secured further funding to perform the in vivo study and pursue the development of the device.
