Functional, dynamic assessment of the knee ligaments based on ultrasound imaging using a novel flexible matrix array transducer.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a very common intervention to relieve pain and restore function in case of knee osteoarthritis. A major determinant for good (long-term) outcome of this intervention is a robust assessment of the biomechanical properties of the soft tissue surrounding the joint. Unfortunately, assessment of these properties is currently only possible through indirect measurements, in addition to being invasive and only feasible intra-operatively. Within this project, we therefore target to develop, validate and clinically test a unique non-invasive planning and monitoring tool for the evaluation of soft-tissue balance in joint replacement surgery. Hereto, we will build upon novel technology recent developed at ESAT-MICAS to fabricate large, flexible ultrasound transducers and combine this with the expertise in image reconstruction and processing of Cardio-CVID and the know-how of IORT in experimental validation methodologies and the clinical application. This project can revolutionise medical ultrasound imaging.

Keywords:soft tissue balancing, micromachined ultrasound transducer, ultrasound imaging, knee arthroplasty, conformable transducer array

Disciplines:Micro- and nanoelectromechanical systems, Biomedical instrumentation, Orthopaedic surgery, Musculo-skeletal systems