WiSys is seeking a strategic partner for further development, validation, manufacture, sales, and distribution of a new range of motion measuring device that will lower physical therapy costs and improve comfort for patients recovering from hinge joint operations or for patients with movement disorders.
OVERVIEWIn the United States, approximately 5.2 million knee replacement surgeries were performed in the 11 years between 2000 and 2010, and U.S. hospital costs from total knee replacement were estimated at $41.7 billion in 2014. The number of these procedures in the U.S. is anticipated to be over 3.4 million in 2030 alone. One standard indicator of progress in post-operation recovery is range of motion of the knee joint, which is typically measured by a physical therapist using a handheld, protractor-like device called a goniometer. Although simple, a goniometer can be easily misaligned, causing up to 5 degrees of measurement error. In addition, it requires a second individual besides the patient to make a reading while the knee is stationary. This need for another person increases numbers of visits to the physical therapist and therefore increases cost. The patient can also experience discomfort or pain while having to hold the joint still for measurement.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITYInventors at University of Wisconsin-Platteville have developed a novel device that enables an individual to reliably measure range of motion of his or her own knee joint while avoiding the discomfort of holding it stationary. The core function of the device relies on commercially available sensors containing a flexible electroactive polymer that measures movement and stretching. Read the full story here.
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