The University of Lausanne is offering this technology for licensing or collaboration.

The technology describes an apparatus and technique for accurate and reproducible positioning of the acetabular components in hip replacement surgery.

Development Phase :

Prototype available

Patent Status :

A provisional patent application has been filed on September, 2001. Patent pending.

Patent Attorney :
Mintz & Levin, Boston, USA

Novelty and Benefits :
¨
Allows 3d positioning with one reference point
¨ Memorisation of optimal position, which guarantees reproducibility
¨ Ease of use, cost effective, applicable to all type of acetabular compoenents.

Fluid Filled Guide for Acetabular Components Positioning

(Reference Number IDF 19/01)

The Technology :

Although different techniques have been proposed to ensure correct placement of the femoral portion of the hip replacement, techniques associated with the implantation of acetabular prostheses are far less developed.

Currently, developments in the area include a wealth of mechanically operated guides that rely only on the surgeon?s eye and hand co-ordination for implant positioning. Computer assisted surgery is promising, but its availability will be limited by its cost and by the need for specific training.

We propose a guide and method of use that allows optimal and reproducible positioning of the acetabular components. The fluid filled guide cAompares favourably with the current technique, the Mueller guide, on points such as ease of use, accuracy, reproducibility and cost.

Applications :

Hip replacement surgery.