James L Aronson

US Patent:

54376688, Aug 1, 1995

Filed:

Feb 18, 1994

Appl. No.:

8/198356

Inventors:

James Aronson - Little Rock AR
John H. Harp - Little Rock AR

Assignee:

Board of Trustees of the University of Ark. - Little Rock AR

International Classification:

A61B 1756

US Classification:

606 57

Abstract:

Distraction Osteogenesis is a procedure for lengthening a bone. The Ilizarov External Fixator is an apparatus employed in the distraction osteogenesis procedure. The prospects for a successful clinical outcome of the procedure are enhanced by modifying the Ilizarov apparatus to obtain measurements of loads generated during the procedure. An apparatus and method for the clinical use of load measurements taken during the distraction osteogenesis procedure are disclosed. An alternative method is disclosed for converting load measurements to stress data in order to enhance the clinical outcome of the procedure. Additionally, the method may be employed to assess completion of the healing process.