A successful grant project has resulted in the development of an innovative bone fixation system, designed specifically for the treatment of complex fractures. This prototype integrates advanced technologies, including unique materials, 3D printing, and continuous monitoring of both the fracture’s status and the patient’s vital signs through telemedicine. The project, carried out in collaboration with the Technical University of Košice and partner companies Biomedical Engineering and Goldmann Systems, highlights how modern technology can significantly enhance medical practices.
Goldmann Systems provides technological platform for sensing patient movement and vital functions, as well as data collection and analysis.
Remote Monitoring and Patient Comfort
Telemedicine is making a significant impact in the treatment of complex fractures. The new prototype, designed as a quick clamping system – “fixator” secures the broken bone and also allows healthcare professionals to monitor the healing process in real-time. Special sensors embedded in the fixator continuously track temperature, fixation intensity, and pressure on the bone, ensuring the healing process stays on track. This data is collected and analyzed instantly, providing medical teams with a comprehensive view of the bone’s condition and any unwanted movement during recovery.
Enhancing Patient Comfort and Efficiency
One of the main advantages of this new prototype is its customizability. The fixator can be tailored to fit the specific size and shape of a patient’s bone, and its application takes only a fewseconds. Constructed from titanium, steel, special sensors, and 3D-printed plastics, the entire set weighs under 300 grams. This design enables swift and secure fixation, minimizing the risk of further bone movement during subsequent treatments.
In cases of complex fractures, patients usually remain hospitalized for a few days, during which their vital signs and the fixation’s stability are regularly monitored. Even after discharge, remote monitoring technology allows doctors to track the healing process, reducing the need for frequent outpatient visits. The telemedicine system can remotely check the status of the fractured bone, and healthcare professionals can adjust the fixator as needed after consultations.
A Collaborative Effort with Future Impact
Pilot operations will soon be launched at the trauma department in Košice, where the prototype will be used in the treatment of complicated fractures. This grant project was developed in collaboration with the Technical University of Košice and the companies Biomedical Engineering and Goldmann Systems. It is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Operational Program Integrated Infrastructure.
As telemedicine continues to evolve, projects like this one will set new standards for remote patient monitoring, offering more personalized, efficient, and effective care for patients worldwide.