Patent Application
20070238992
The present invention is directed to improved instrumentation and methods for measuring tissue density. More particularly, in one aspect the present invention is directed to an implantable sensor for detecting changes in tissue density.
The present invention relates to the assessment of tissue density. The invention may have particularly useful application in the assessment of tissue density as it relates to total joint replacement surgeries including the implantation of hip, knee, shoulder, ankle, spinal and wrist prostheses. The invention may also have particularly useful application in the assessment of tissue density as it relates to soft tissue repairs such as ACL reconstruction or meniscal reconstruction, for example.
Joint prostheses are usually manufactured of durable materials such as metals, ceramics, or hard plastics and are affixed to articulating ends of the bones of the joint. Joint prostheses usually include an articulating surface composed of a material designed to minimize the friction between the components of the joint prostheses. For example, in a hip prosthesis the femoral component is comprised of a head (or ball) and a stem attached to the femur. The acetabular component is comprised of a cup (or socket) attached to the acetabulum and most often includes a polyethylene articulating surface. The ball-in-socket motion between the femoral head and the acetabular cup simulates the natural motion of the hip joint and the polyethylene surface helps to minimize friction during articulation of the ball and socket.
Total joint surgery often requires implanting components that articulate against polyethylene or metal bearing surfaces. This articulation has been shown to release submicron particle wear debris, often polyethylene wear debris. This debris may lead to osteolytic lesions, implant loosing, and possibly the need for revision surgery. Early detection of particle wear debris or the onset of osteolytic lesions allows an orthopedic surgeon to treat the potential problem before it escalates to the point of causing severe medical harm to the patient or the need for revision surgery.
Further, in soft tissue repairs, such as ACL reconstruction, the tissue may have problems with graft incorporation or failure to fully heal the defect. Tracking the healing process and tissue integrity in soft tissue repairs can assist the surgeon in determining the appropriate postoperative treatments and physical therapy. Also, early detection of a potential problem provides the surgeon with the potential ability to treat the affected tissue before the problem becomes more serious or requires revision surgery.
Therefore, there remains a need for improved instrumentation and methods for measuring tissue density and changes in tissue density.
The present invention provides an implantable sensor for detecting indicators of tissue density that comprises a sensing element adapted for placement in natural tissue and configured for detecting a signal indicative of a density of a monitored tissue and a telemetry circuit in communication with the sensing element adapted for transmitting the detected signal outside of the natural tissue.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a system for detecting changes in tissue density that comprises an implantable acoustic sensor adapted for detecting a signal indicative of a density of a tissue and communicating the signal to an external receiver and an external receiver adapted for receiving the signal from the implantable sensor.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of evaluating the density of a tissue in a body that comprises implanting a sensor into natural tissue of the body, the sensor adapted for detecting a signal indicative of the density of the tissue, obtaining the detected signal from the sensor, and analyzing the signal to evaluate tissue density.
Further aspects, forms, embodiments, objects, features, benefits, and advantages of the present invention shall become apparent from the detailed drawings and descriptions provided herein.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described devices, instruments, methods, and any further application of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
Referring now to
As discussed more fully below, it is fully contemplated that the sensor 90 may be disposed at a plurality of locations including, but not limited to, within a bone or tissue, attached to a bone or tissue, adjacent to a bone or tissue, within or integral to an artificial implant, attached to an artificial implant, adjacent to an artificial implant, or any combination of these locations. In the current embodiment the sensor 90 is disposed adjacent the hip implant 30 and partially within bone portion 10. Where the sensor 90 is adapted for being disposed at least partially within bone, it is contemplated that the sensor may be shaped or coated in a substance to facilitate bone growth and incorporation of the sensor into the bone. The sensor 90 is shown positioned adjacent the acetabular cup 32. However, the sensor 90 may also be disposed adjacent the femoral stem 36 of the hip implant 30. There are a plurality of other locations for the sensor 90 adjacent to the hip implant 30 that are adequate for monitoring changes in tissue density of the surrounding bone 10, 20. The precise locations available for placement of the sensor 90 will depend upon the type of sensor or transducer being utilized.
As shown in
It is contemplated that the sensor may be utilized to detect indicators of tissue density over a regular interval such as every 6 months or every month as determined by the treating physician. In this regard, it is contemplated that the patient may return to the doctor's office for each reading. At such time the doctor would place the external device 200 in the vicinity of the sensor 90. Through inductive coupling via the telemetry unit 98 the sensor 90 would be powered by the external device 200. The acoustic transducer 96 would then take a reading by detecting indicators of tissue density. This reading would then be relayed to the external device 200 via the telemetry circuit 98. The reading may then be analyzed and appropriate medical treatment may be taken. It is also contemplated that the patient may obtain these readings without a need to go to the doctor's office. For example, the patient may be provided with the external device 200 that is capable of providing power to the sensor 90, obtaining the readings, and then relaying the readings on to the doctor's office. For example, the external device may transfer the readings to the doctors office via a phone line or computer network. It is contemplated that a system similar to that of Medtronic's CareLink may be utilized.
Now referring to
As shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, it is also contemplated that the sensor 100 may be implanted in a surgical procedure after the acetabular cup 32 has been implanted. It is also contemplated that the sensor 100 may be implanted when the acetabular cup 32 is implanted. It is also contemplated that the sensor 100 may be implanted into a bone without engaging a portion of a previously implanted implant. That is, the sensor 100 may be a stand-alone unit.
The implantable sensor 100 includes an acoustic transducer 110, a signal processor 120, a memory unit 130, a telemetry circuit 140, and a power supply 150. While the implantable sensor 100 is described as having a separate signal processor 120, it is fully contemplated that the function of the signal processor, described below, may be incorporated into either the transducer 110 or the memory 130, eliminating the need for a separate signal processor. Similarly, it is fully contemplated that the functions of the various components of the sensor 100 may be combined into a single component or distributed among a plurality of components. Further, it is fully contemplated that the sensor 100 may include other electronics and components adapted for monitoring indicators of tissue density and changes in tissue density.
The implantable sensor 100 may function in a variety of ways. Under one approach the sensor 100 may use a type of comparative analysis to determine changes in tissue density. That is, an initial baseline or threshold range of signals will either be determined by the sensor itself or provided to the sensor by the caretaker. Then the sensor 100 will monitor the indicators of tissue density and when the signals detected are out the threshold range the sensor will store those signals in its memory 130. Then this data may be extracted by the caretaker via external device 200. With this data the caretaker may then choose the appropriate treatment plan. For example, the caretaker may choose to have the patient undergo additional examinations such as a CT scan or an x-ray. Either based on the additional examinations or other factors, the caretaker may instead or in addition choose to adjust the threshold range.
It is fully contemplated that a treating physician may want to change what the sensor considers the normal range of signals overtime. For example, as an artificial implant is incorporated into the body the signals associated with tissue density near the bone-implant connection point will change until the implant is fully integrated. Once the implant is fully integrated, the normal range of signals may be consistent for a period of months or years, but still may change over time requiring modification of the range. Thus, it is contemplated that the sensor 100 be programmable, self-learning, or both.
Self-learning implies that the sensor 100 is able to determine the proper range of signals by monitoring the signals over a period of time and then via algorithms in its signal processing unit decide on the range of signals indicative of normal tissue density. In this regard, it is fully contemplated that the caretaker may be able to override the determinations made by the sensor 100 by programming in the thresholds or, on the other hand, the caretaker may reset the sensor's determinations and simply have the sensor recalculate the proper range based on current signals detected. Thus, as described above when an implant becomes fully integrated the caretaker may decided to reset the self-learning sensor so that the ranges are based on the signals associated with the fully integrated implant.
In regards to setting the ranges, it is contemplated that the patient may be instructed through a series of movements such as sitting down, standing up, walking, climbing stairs, or cycling with the sensor 100 detecting the associated indicators of tissue density. Based on the sensed signals, the sensor threshold ranges may be set for operation. The acoustic signals produced by these and other movements may be detected within a bone being monitored as cortical bone is known to be acoustically conductive. Thus, instructing the patient through many of the normal motions and movements of everyday life may provide a good variety of signals that may be used to base the normal signal range upon. Over time, the patient may again be put through a similar series of movements to reset or recalibrate the sensor 100 as seen fit by the caretaker.
Under another approach, the sensor 100 may function by monitoring for signals determined to be associated with the onset of osteolysis or other changes in tissue density. For example, there are certain acoustic sounds and vibrations associated with osteolytic lesions. The sensor 100 may be configured to detect and recognize these acoustic signals. For example, the sensor 100 may utilize various filters, amplifiers, and algorithms to remove background noise and focus on the detection of the signals indicative of osteolysis or other changes in tissue density. Though in the currently described embodiment the sensor 100 is an acoustic sensor, it is also contemplated, and described more fully below with respect to
In the case of an acoustic sensor as in the present embodiment, the acoustic transducer 110 is configured for detecting sounds and acoustic waves indicative of tissue density. Under one approach if the detected signal exceeds the normal range of signals as determined by the signal processor 120, then the signal will be stored in the memory 130. In this regard, the signal processor 120 may be configured to determine the parameters or threshold levels of signal ranges for detection by the sensor 100. The signal processor 120 may set parameters such as the amplitude, frequency range, or decibel level required before a signal is considered an indication of a change in tissue density. The range and parameter settings may be configured so as to increase the accurate detection of changes in tissue density.
The memory 130 is configured to store data it receives from the signal processor 120 that is either outside the normal signal range or within the range of signals being detected. It is fully contemplated that the memory 130 may utilize known compression algorithms and functions to save on memory and size requirements. In this regard, it is also contemplated that the memory 130 may store additional data with respect to each signal such as a timestamp, the specific characteristics of the signal, or any other relevant data. In this respect, the signal processor 120 and memory 130 may be configured to keep the various types of data the orthopedic surgeon or treating physician would like to have to monitor tissue density.
The implantable sensor 100 also includes a telemetry circuit 140. The telemetry circuit 140 is connected to the memory 130 and is adapted for sending the data stored in the memory outside of the patient's body to an external device 200. In particular, the telemetry circuit 140 is adapted for communicating wirelessly with the telemetry circuit 210 of the external device 200. There are several types of wireless telemetry circuits that may be employed for communication between the implantable sensor 100 and the external device 200. For example, RFID, inductive telemetry, acoustic energy, near infrared energy, “Bluetooth,” and computer networks are all possible means of wireless communication. In the present embodiment, the telemetry circuits 140, 210 are adapted for RFID communication such that the telemetry circuit 140 is a passive RFID tag. Using a passive RFID tag helps limit the power requirements of the telemetry circuit 140 and, therefore, the implantable sensor 100 yet still allows wireless communication to the external device 200.
Supplying the power requirements of the implantable sensor 100 is a power source 150. In the current embodiment, the power source 150 is a battery. In this manner the sensor may be internally powered. The battery power source 150 may be a lithium iodine battery similar to those used for other medical implant devices such as pacemakers. However, the battery power source 150 may be any type of battery suitable for implantation. The power source 150 is connected to one or more of the transducer 110, the signal processor 120, the memory 130, or the telemetry unit 140. The battery 150 is connected to these components so as to allow continuous monitoring of indicators of tissue density. It is fully contemplated that the battery 150 may be rechargeable. It is also contemplated that the battery 150 may be recharged by an external device so as to avoid the necessity of a surgical procedure to recharge the battery. For example, in one embodiment the battery 150 is rechargeable via inductive coupling.
In the current embodiment, the sensor 100 is passive. However, it is fully contemplated that the sensor 100 be active. Where the sensor 100 is active, the transducer 110 may use a pulse-echo approach to detecting bone density. For example, utilization of ultrasonic waves in a pulse-echo manner to determine tissue density is fully contemplated. In that case, the transducer 110 would utilize power from the power source 150 to generate the pulse signal. In the current embodiment, however, the transducer 110 may use the power source 150 to facilitate the sending of signals to the signal processor 120. The signal processor 120, in turn, may use the power source 150 to accomplish its filtering and processing and then send a signal to the memory 130. The memory 130 will then use the power source 150 to store the signal and tissue density data.
In other embodiments the power source 150 may also be connected to the telemetry circuit 140 to provide power to facilitate communication with the external device 200. However, in the present embodiment the telemetry circuit 140 does not require power from the power source 150 because it communicates with the external receiver 200 utilizing a passive RFID tag or other inductive coupling means of communication. Further, the power source 150 may be connected to other electronic components not found in the current embodiment. It is fully contemplated that the power source 150 may include a plurality of batteries or other types of power sources. Finally, it is also contemplated that the implantable sensor 100 may be self-powered, not requiring a separate power supply. For example, a piezoelectric transducer may be utilized as the acoustic transducer 110 such that signals detected by the transducer also provide power to the sensor 100. The piezoelectric transducer could detect the signal and converts it into an electrical signal that is passively filtered and stored only if it satisfies the signal thresholds. Then, as in the current embodiment, the sensor 100 may utilize a passive RFID tag or other passive telemetry unit to communicate the tissue density data with an external device. Thus, allowing the sensor 100 to function without a dedicated or continuously draining power source. Similarly, the sensor 100 may utilize a piezoelectric or electromagnetic power source that is not used as the acoustic transducer 110. For example, such power sources could utilize patient motion to maintain a power supply.
The external device 200 receives the tissue density data from the implantable sensor 100 via communication between the telemetry circuit 140 of the sensor and the telemetry unit 210 of the external device. Then a signal processor 220 converts or demodulates the data. The converted data is output to a display 230 where it is displayed in human intelligible form. The conversion and processing of the data may be tailored to the specific liking of the surgeon. For example, the display of data may simply be a number representing the number of signals recorded by the memory 130 indicating the number of signals outside the normal range that were detected. Similarly, the display of data may be a bar graph having a height or length representing the number of signals detected. Further, the display may show a detailed chart of specific information for each signal detected outside of the threshold range. These various display examples are for illustration purposes only and in no way limit the plurality of ways in which the tissue density data may be displayed in accordance with the present invention.
Utilizing the sensor 100 to detect indicators of changes in tissue density may have numerous applications. The detected changes may be used to predict the onset of osteolysis and osteolytic lesions. Under such an approach, early detection will allow the treating physician to treat the affected regions before the problem escalates. In particular, early detection may prevent the need for a later revision surgery if the detected problem is treated promptly. Under another approach described more fully below, the sensor 100 may be utilized to monitor and track the healing process and coordinate post-operative treatment and physical therapy accordingly.
Also within the sensor 100, a communication process is underway. The telemetry unit 140 awaits communication from the external device 200 requesting transmission of the tissue density data. If the telemetry unit 140 receives such a request, then the telemetry unit 140 transmits the tissue density data to the telemetry unit 210 of the external receiver 200. From there the signal processor 220 converts or demodulates the transferred data and the display 230 displays the demodulated data in a human intelligible form. At this point the surgeon or caretaker can review the tissue density data and take the appropriate medical action as they see fit.
Though not illustrated, it is also contemplated that the external device 200 may reset the tissue density data stored within the sensor 100. For example, the external receiver 200 may be configured to reset or clear the memory 130 upon extraction of the tissue density data. The external device 200 may clear the memory 130 of the sensor 100 by utilizing communication between the telemetry circuits 140, 210. However, it is not necessary for the external device 200 to clear the data of the sensor 100. For example, a treating physician may wish to keep a running count of signals detected outside the normal range in the memory 130 rather than resetting the sensor 100 after each data extraction.
Described below are numerous components of the external receiver in accordance with the present invention. These components illustrate the various types of electronic and non-electronic components that may be utilized by the external receiver. These descriptions are exemplary of the type of components that may be employed by the external receiver, but in no way are these illustrations intended to limit the types or combinations of electronic and non-electronic components that may be utilized in accordance with the present invention.
The external receiver may include components such as a telemetry unit, a signal processor, a calibration unit, memory, an indicator, and a networking interface. The telemetry unit is adapted for communication with the implantable sensor in accordance with the present invention. Thus, the telemetry unit is configured to extract tissue density data from the sensor. The telemetry unit may obtain data from the sensor through a variety of wireless communication methods such as inductive coupling, capacitive coupling, radio frequency, personal computer networking, Bluetooth, or other wireless means. Though the preferred method of communication is wireless, it is also contemplated that the external receiver may be in selective wired communication with the implantable sensor.
Once the data is obtained by the external receiver using the telemetry unit, the data is processed by the signal processor. The degree and type of data processing is dependant on both the data obtained from the implantable sensor and the desires of the treating doctor. The data processing performed by the signal processor may range from simple conversion of tissue density data into a human sensible form to complex analysis of the usage data via spectral analysis. Further, the data processing performed by the signal processor may only be a first step of processing. The processed data of the external receiver may be output to a more powerful or specialized signal processing unit where additional processing takes place. This additional signal processing unit may be located either within the external receiver itself or in a separate external device such as a personal computer.
The signal processor is adapted for converting the data into a form that may be utilized by an indicator. The indicator may be any type of device or interface that can output the data in human intelligible form. For example, the indicator may be a visual display, speaker, or any other indicator or output means. It is contemplated that the indicator may be composed of a plurality of output mechanisms instead of a single device.
The external receiver may also include a calibration circuit. The calibration circuit is adapted for configuring a configurable signal processor of an implantable sensor. The external receiver may set, restore, or change such aspects of the configurable signal processor as the predetermined criteria for keeping sound recordings, the type of tissue density data to be kept, the preset thresholds for signals indicative of normal tissue density, or any other setting related to the performance of the configurable signal processor. It is fully contemplated the calibration circuit may utilize the telemetry circuits of the sensor and external receiver to communicate with the configurable signal processing unit. However, it is also fully contemplated that the calibration circuit and the configurable signal processing unit may have a separate dedicated means of communication.
The external receiver may also include a memory unit. The memory unit may be adapted for multiple uses. First, the memory unit may be adapted for permanent storage of tissue density data obtained from the implantable sensor. Thus, the memory unit may store data obtained at various times from the implantable sensor so the data may later be reviewed, compared, or analyzed. Second, the memory unit may be adapted for temporary storage of tissue density data obtained from the implantable sensor. In this case, the memory unit will store the data until it is either discarded or transferred for permanent storage. For example, the data may be transferred from the memory unit of the external receiver via a networking interface to a network or computer for permanent storage.
When present, the networking interface provides a means for the external receiver to communicate with other external devices. The type of network utilized may include such communication means as telephone networks, computer networks, or any other means of communicating data electronically. The networking interface of the external receiver could obviate the need for the patient to even go into the doctor's office for obtaining implant usage data. For example, the patient could utilize the external receiver to obtain the usage data from the implantable sensor on a scheduled basis (e.g. daily, weekly, monthly, etc.). Then, utilizing the networking interface the patient could send this data to the treating doctor. The networking interface may be configured to directly access a communication network such as a telephone or computer network for transferring the data. It is fully contemplated that the computer network be accessible by a treating physician for reviewing implant usage data of the patient without requiring the patient to make an actual visit to the doctor's office. The networking interface may be similar to the CareLink system from Medtronic, Inc.
Further, it is also contemplated that any communication between the external receiver and the computer network may be encrypted or otherwise secured so as protect the patient's privacy. It is also contemplated that the networking interface may be configured for communication with a separate device that is adapted for accessing the communication network. For example, the networking interface may be a USB connection. The external receiver may be connected to a personal computer via the USB connection and then the personal computer may be utilized to connect to the communication network, such as the internet, for transferring the data to a designated place where the treating doctor may receive it.
Referring now to
The sensor 100 may provide tissue density data to the doctor or physical therapist allowing the treatment and physical therapy to the be tailored to the specific recovery speed of the patient. In this regard, it is also contemplated that the sensor 100 may be used to determine the rate of healing for each patient. That is, the sensor 100 may be used to predict the state of healing at a later time. For example, based on the status of healing at a first time compared to the status of a standard healing process the treating physician may project the state of healing for the particular patient at a later time. This may be particularly useful in the case of a patient who needs to speed up the recovery time as much as possible without reinjuring the knee, such as a professional athlete. Similarly, the sensor 100 may also provide early evidence of incorporation problems and allow the surgeon to remedy these problems earlier.
It is also contemplated that the sensor 100 may also be used for monitoring other aspects of the knee not associated with ACL reconstruction surgery. For example and without limitation, the sensor 100 may be used to monitor tissue density changes of the meniscus, osteochondral cartilage, or articular cartilage. The sensor 100 may also be used to sense the amount of synovial fluid, density of synovial fluid, and the pressure of synovial fluid in the synovial capsule; these determinations may be particularly advantageous in partial joint replacements. Also it is fully contemplated that the sensor 100 may be utilized for similar tissue density monitoring in parts of the body other than the knee. Further, the sensor 100 may be utilized to monitor the density of tissue adherent to bone. For example, the sensor 100 may be used to monitor the connections between ligaments and bone or tendons and bone. The sensor 100 may also be utilized to determine the density of muscle tissue surrounding the bone.
In the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that the sensor 300 may be implanted after the acetabular cup 32 has been implanted. Under one approach, the sensor 300 may be impacted or otherwise advanced into the bone 10 until the threads 316 of the implant engagement portion 312 are in a position to be threaded into the threaded driver portion 60. Then the sensor 300 may be rotated until the threads 126 and threaded driver portion 60 are fully threaded together. It is contemplated that the implant engagement portion 312 may include a cross-shaped driver opening or other mechanism to facilitate rotation of the sensor 300 by another device such as a driver. Under another approach, the sensor 300 may be driven into a bone without engaging an implant.
Referring now to
In addition or alternatively, the plurality of sensors 400 may function as redundancies to one another. That is, rather than working together each individual sensor 400 would function independently. Then the data obtained by each sensor could be compared to the data obtained by the other sensors to make a determination of changes in tissue density. Under such an approach, the failing of a single sensor would not create a need to replace the sensor and therefore eliminate the need for an additional medical procedure. Further, it is fully contemplated that all of the sensors of the present invention may be utilized independently or as part of a plurality of sensors.
The plurality of sensors 400 and all other sensors of the present invention may be accelerometers. Further, accelerometers and other sensing means may be used in combination to form the plurality of sensors 400. An accelerometer can be utilized to detect vibrations. In the relation to the acoustic sensors previously described, it is contemplated that the vibrations detected by an accelerometer may be a result of the acoustic emissions or the producing cause of the acoustic emissions. Thus, in this respect it can be advantageous to use both an acoustic sensor and an accelerometer. Further, the accelerometer may be a single or multi-axis device. Also, a plurality of single-axis accelerometers—in the same or different axis—may be utilized to simulate the advantages found with a multi-axis accelerometer. For example, the use of a multi-axis accelerometer or a plurality of single-axis accelerometers may be used to produce vectored data to better differentiate between locations and types of bone lysis.
Referring now to
Referring now to
Transducer 610 may be substantially cylindrical such that it can be delivered to the implantation site via a needle or catheter. In this respect, the transducer 610 may communicate with the components in the main housing 620 via a dedicated wire or lead 715, as shown. On the other hand, the transducer 610 may communicate with the components in the main housing 620 wirelessly. For example, the transducer 610 may utilize an RF transponder or other means of wireless communication to transfer information to the main housing 620.
Though the main housing 620 is shown as being disposed inside the body and near the hip joint, it is fully contemplated that the main housing may be disposed anywhere within communication range of the transducer 610. Thus, the main housing 620 is preferably located where it will not interfere with use of the joint nor interfere with any other body functions. Where the transducer 610 communicates with the components of the main housing 620 via the wire lead 615, the location of the main housing is limited by potential interference of both the wire and the main housing. Where the transducer 610 communicates with the components in the main housing 620 wirelessly, the position of the main housing 620 will be a function of the limits on the distance for wireless communication as well as any potential body function interference the main housing may cause. With sufficient wireless communication it is possible to position the main housing 620 externally. That is, the main housing 620 may be positioned outside the patient's body. Preferably, when disposed outside of the body the main housing 620 will be positioned in a location anatomically close to the transducer 610. Placing the main housing 620 as close to the location of the transducer 610 as possible helps to facilitate wireless communication. It is not necessary to place the main housing 620 near the transducer 610 if communication can be achieved from greater distances.
Similarly, with the onset of osteolytic lesions the bone begins to create “mushy” or “soft” sounds with each step taken or other movement. As indicated above, osteolytic lesions are often caused by polyethylene wear debris from deteriorating implants. In this manner, the sensor 700 may be utilized for the detection of osteolytic lesions as well as for monitoring implant use. Thus, it is advantageous for the sensor 700 to include a means of detecting and recording these sounds for later review by a surgeon or other caretaker.
It is contemplated that the transducer 710 may be a microphone or other type of transducer that facilitates detection and recording of sounds indicative of tissue density. The transducer 710 is connected to the recording device 720 such that the recording device is able to store the sounds picked up by the transducer. However, due to a desire to minimize the size of the sensor 700 so as to be minimally invasive, it may not be practical to record all of the sounds picked up by the sensor. Therefore, the recording device 720 may include a buffer—such as a 5-30 second buffer—allowing the detected sounds to be reviewed and then store only those sounds meeting a predetermined criteria. It is contemplated that this determination will be made by the configurable signal processor 730. For example, the configurable signal processor 730 will analyze the sounds collected by the recording device 720. If a sound meets the criteria then that recording will be moved from the buffer into permanent storage in the memory unit 740 for later retrieval by an external unit. If a sound does not meet the criteria, then it will simply be ignored and the recording process will continue.
Recordings stored in the memory unit 740 may later be removed by an external device. As with other embodiments, it is contemplated that the external device will communicate with the sensor 700 via the telemetry unit 750. Once the external device has obtained the recordings from the memory unit 740 via the telemetry unit 750, then the recordings may either be played by the itself or transferred to another external unit adapted for playing the recordings, such as a speaker or other sound producing unit. In this manner the patient's doctor or a specialist may review the recorded for indications of changing tissue density or the onset of osteolytic lesions and choose a treatment plan accordingly. Similarly, the recordings may be analyzed using spectral analysis. Spectral analysis may include such analyzing techniques as Fast Fourier Transform algorithms, fuzzy logic, artificial intelligence, or any other method of analyzing the data. Utilizing spectral analysis may identify patterns in the sounds or detect problems that a general doctor or even a specialist might miss in reviewing the recordings. On the other hand, spectral analysis may provide a vehicle for allowing the doctor or specialist to better identify problems by converting the data into various visual forms such as spectrograms or other graphical representations.
It is also contemplated that the sound recordings may be analyzed with respect to each other over time. That is, the sound recordings do not have to be individually analyzed to determine changes in tissue density. Rather, comparing sound recordings over time may provide indications of tissue density changes. As previously mentioned, it is contemplated that in the case of utilizing the sensor in conjunction with an area having an artificial implant the sound recordings will change as the implant is initially integrated, then fully integrated, and then degrades. Thus, comparing sound recordings over time intervals may provide insight into tissue density changes and the potential for osteolytic lesion development. In this regard, it is fully contemplated that the sensor may be configured to allow recording of raw sound data by an external device. That is, the sensor need not include signal processing and memory. Rather, the sensor may simply facilitate the recording of sound data by a separate device. This sound data may be gathered at a plurality of sessions and then the data from the sessions compared by manual or computational means. This comparison will determine tissue conditions or changes in tissue.
It is not necessary for the sensor 700 to include a buffer. For example, the sensor 700 may have a memory unit 740 adapted for storing a certain amount of recordings from the recording device 720 such as hours, days, weeks, or months worth of recordings, or in terms of memory usage a certain number of bytes. Using such an approach, the data may be removed from memory unit 740 by an external device on an interval corresponding to the storage capacity of the memory unit. Thus, if the sensor 700 is configured for storing 30 hours worth of recordings on the memory unit 740, then a daily synchronization with the external device that removes and stores the recordings may be appropriate. Also this approach may obviate the need for including the signal processor 730 within the sensor 700. This is because, if all of the sounds observed by the transducer 710 are being recorded by the recording device 720, then the signal processing may be accomplished externally, either by the external device used to extract the data or another device, such as a computer, that may obtain the data from the external device and perform the signal processing.
If the sensor 700 does include a buffer and the signal processing is accomplished within the sensor, then it may be advantageous to also include a configurable signal processor 730. The configurable signal processor 730 is utilized as described above to discriminate between sounds satisfying a predetermined criteria and those that do not. The configurable signal processor 730 is also adapted for being configured by the external device. In this regard, the configurable signal processor 730 may communicate with the external device either via the telemetry circuit 750 or through a separate communication path. Either way, the external device may set, restore, or change such aspects of the configurable signal processor 730 as the predetermined criteria for keeping sound recordings, the type of tissue density data to be kept, the preset thresholds for normal tissue density signals, or any other setting related to the performance of the signal processor. Thus, a doctor can adjust the monitoring standards for the patient as conditions or available information changes. For example, as medical research continues to develop in this area and more is known of the specific sounds and signals indicative of different types of changes in tissue density, the sensor 700 may be adjusted via the configurable signal processor 730 to take such things into account and store the desired data accordingly.
Sensor 800 has an external surface configured to engage the surrounding tissue to maintain its relative position in the body. Although sensor 800 is shown for the purposes of illustration as a cylinder, it will be appreciated that the outer surface of the body of the sensor 800, as well as any of the preceding sensors, may be shaped, to include tissue anchoring surfaces, or otherwise configured for maintaining the relative position of the implant with respect to the adjacent tissue. For example and without limitation, the outer surface may be threaded, knurled, ribbed, roughened, etched, sintered, bristled, have an ingrowth surface, or include protrusions to engage the surrounding tissue. Additionally, separately, or in combination with the foregoing, the outer surface may be at least partially coated with chemical or biologic agents for promoting adhesion to the adjacent tissue and/or growth of the tissue onto the outer surface of the sensor.
It is contemplated that the electrodes 922 and 924 may be located completely within the main body 908, head 912, and leading end 914 of the sensor. However, as shown in
The various embodiments of the present invention may have particularly useful application in tracking the healing of tissue, including the rate of healing and effectiveness of treatments. For example, the sensors may be adapted to be implanted into or adjacent the spine to detect indicators of improving bone quality in fusion and grafting procedures. In a spinal interbody fusion, the sensor may be utilized to determine more accurately when the vertebrae have fully fused together. In one embodiment, micro-motion sounds associated with unfused bone may be used to determine when sufficient fusion has occurred. Alternatively, the changes in conductivity energy (e.g. acoustic or electric) may be sensed to determine the degree of bone fusion. Similar techniques may be used in the case of ankle and other bone fusions as well. Similarly, in the case of dental implants requiring implantation of a post into the alveolar ridge it is common to wait six months to allow the allograft, autograft, synthetic bone, or other material to be incorporated into the jaw before implanting the post. However, utilizing the current invention the sensor can use indicators of bone density or a determined rate of healing to predict when the graft is fully healed without waiting for a very conservative length of time to pass.
The sensors may also be used to monitor treatment of a tissue. For example, in the treatment of osteoporosis it is common to give the patient vitamin D, calcium supplements, bisphosphonates, or other pharmaceuticals and then monitor the patient's bone mineral density. Sensors according the present invention provide a way to monitor changes, both good and bad, in bone mineral density and help facilitate treatment of osteoporosis. The sensors may be particularly advantageous in treating osteoporosis in the areas around artificial implants where the implant interferes with the ability to use dual energy x-ray absorptiometry to determine bone mineral density.
The sensors may also be used to control bone growth stimulators. That is, it is contemplated that the sensors may be used in combination with bone growth stimulators—chemical, electrical, biological, or otherwise—to determine a course of treatment. For example, the sensors may be utilized to determine when there has been sufficient bone growth to halt the use of the bone growth stimulator. On the other hand, the sensors may also be used to detect slowing in bone growth and the need to increase the amount of bone growth stimulation. It is fully contemplated that the sensors may be in communication with a bone growth stimulator release mechanism so that the proper amount of bone growth stimulation is provided based on the sensors' determinations. The parameters for the sensors' determinations may be programmed into the sensor based on the treating physician's preference. As described previously, it is contemplated that the sensor may be programmable so that the treating physician may change the parameters for the sensor after implantation to facilitate changes in the treatment of the tissue and, in particular, the amount of bone growth stimulation.
As briefly described previously, it is contemplated that the sensors according the present invention may utilize a variety of alternative techniques to power the sensor. For example, it is fully contemplated that the sensor may be piezoelectric. It is also contemplated that the sensor may simply use the kinematics of the body for power. Further, though the sensors described above have mostly been described as passive in the sense that they listen for indicators created by the body itself, it is also contemplated that the sensor may be powered such that it can send out a signal. Under such an approach, the sensor may utilize pulse-echo type sensing. The sensor would send out a signal and then listen for the echo. Based on the echo the sensor could then detect changes in tissue density. Similarly, instead of a pulse-echo system, a signal generator and a sensor could be utilized. The signal generator would send out a signal and the sensor would receive the signal and based on changes in the detected signals indicate changes in tissue density. When detecting an emitted signal, either in pulse-echo or generator-sensor mode, it is contemplated that the signal may be acoustic, electric, or any other type of transmission that may be utilized to detect changes in tissue density.
While the foregoing description has been made in reference to hip, knee, spine, ankle, and jaw joints, it is contemplated that the disclosed sensor may have further applications throughout the body. Specifically, such disclosed sensors may be useful to evaluate tissue density and detect changes to tissue throughout the body. It is contemplated that the sensor may have particular application with respect to detecting changes in bone density as it relates to osteoporosis. Further, the sensor may be applied to detect tissue density changes with respect to tissue around fixation implants, joint implants, or any other type of implant. The sensor may also be applied to detect disc bulges or tears of the annulus when applied in the spinal region. Moreover, an acoustic sensor may also be used to detect changes in viscosity. Thus, the sensor may be utilized to listen for changes in bodily systems and organs and alert healthcare professionals to any impending or potential problems. Further, the sensor may be used in cooperation and/or communication with an implanted treatment device such as a pump or a stimulator. The pump or stimulator may be controlled based on the readings sensed by the sensor. These examples of potential uses for the sensor are for example only and in no way limit the ways in which the current invention may be utilized.
Further, while the foregoing description has often described the external device as the means for displaying sensor data in human intelligible form, it is fully contemplated that the sensor itself may include components designed to display the data in a human intelligible form. For example, it is fully contemplated that the sensor may include a portion disposed subdermally that emits a visible signal for certain applications. Under one approach, the sensor might display a visible signal when it detects indicators indicative of an osteolytic lesion. The sensor might also emit an audible sound in response to such indicators. In this sense, the sensor might act as an alarm mechanism for not only detecting potential problems but also alerting the patient and doctor to the potential problems. This can facilitate the early detection of problems. Under another approach, the sensor might display a different color visible signal depending on the indicators detected. For example, but without limitation, in the case of measuring tissue density the sensor might emit a greenish light if the indicators detected by the signal indicate density is within the normal range, a yellowish light if in a borderline range, or a red light if in a problematic range.
The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
