For use in post-traumatic long bone osteomyelitis.
PROJECT SUMMARY
The NIHR Trauma Management MedTech Co-operative (NIHR Trauma MIC) collaborated with a University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) – based orthopaedic surgeon (Miss Deepa Bose), and a fellow clinician (Dr Simon Williams), to develop a novel intra-medullary bone scraper for use in post-traumatic long bone osteomyelitis.
CLINICAL NEED
The incidence of osteomyelitis has been estimated at 2.4 cases per 100,00 with the incidence rate increasing with age.1
Upon first engagement with Miss Deepa Bose (2013/14), it was discovered that existing surgical tools used for procedures to remove infected matter from the bone were too rigid and straight. These constraints made access to the bone cavity and the removal of infected matter challenging.
THE SOLUTION
A new surgical device featuring adjustable hinges was developed, allowing for extra dexterity when working inside bone cavities, making the procedure quicker and more effective. This more efficient removal of infected matter helps to reduce infection recurrence rates, leading to better outcomes for patients receiving such surgical interventions.
HOW WE SUPPORTED
The Trauma MIC assisted with:
- IP protection of the product
- Prototype production and liaison with the UK manufacturer to produce the final CE marked product
- Filming of a usability study to help compile a case study
OUTCOME
The contribution of the Trauma MIC led to the device being manufactured by the Sheffield based SME, Platts & Nisbett Ltd.
The bone scraper is now on sale internationally and will contribute to the more efficient removal of infected matter with patients suffering from osteomyelitis.
No further research has been conducted with this device; however, the Trauma MIC remains open to further surgical tool ideas after this success.
REFERENCES
[1] Hochberg, M.C. & Silman, A.J. & Smolen, J.S. & Weinblatt, M.E. & Weisman, M.H. (2014) Rheumatology E-Book: Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 885.
CONTACT
Platts & Nisbett Ltd
Web: http://www.plattsnisbett.com
Email: sales@plattsnisbett.com
Tel: 0114 275 0387
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Email: Deepa.Bose@uhb.nhs.uk
