Real-time Feedback for Post-Operative Rehabilitation of Rotator Cuff Repairs using Wireless Force-Sensing Suture Anchors

Abstract The emerging interdisciplinary research field of Regenerative Rehabilitation is based on recent evidence that post-operative rehabilitation is as important as surgical technique to achieve optimal functional restoration following orthopedic injuries. Despite this recognition, current rehabilitation protocols remain primarily based on qualitative prior experience or preferences and lack patient-specific, real-time quantitative feedback. The overall goal of this project is to develop a sensing system that can monitor the local mechanical environment at orthopedic repair sites, specifically rotator cuff surgeries, thus providing quantitative feedback for surgeons and physical therapists (PTs) to improve patient outcomes and reduce cost by optimizing rehabilitation time and reducing rates of failure and revision surgeries. The sensor would have other applications in large tendon reconstruction and rehabilitation such as Achilles tendon repair as well. The sensing system is based on battery- free sensors embedded in suture anchors used for rotator cuff repairs. The suture anchor is wirelessly monitored with a wearable device, allowing real-time, continuous biofeedback for surgeons and PTs to make informed decisions and accurately apply evidence-based care. To our knowledge, there is no comparable technology that can perform similar tasks efficiently, and successful implementation of our system could lead to significant cost savings in the orthopedic industry. In Phase I, we have developed functional prototypes of the sensor and performed experiments confirming the technical feasibility. We have also set up a funding strategy and network of collaborators for studying the effectiveness and commercialization of this technology. The goal of this Phase II project is to continue the development of the sensor system to meet the safety and marketing requirements of the technology as a medical device while demonstrating its clinical practicality.