An Autonomous Implantable Distraction Nail Controlled by an Inductive Power and Data Link

To help people that suffer from a length difference between their limbs (congenital or after trauma or accident), the most accepted treatment today is through the use of an external fixator. This method inherently imposes several disadvantages such as patient discomfort and high infection risk. Therefore a revolutionary approach is elaborated with the development of an autonomous, fully implanted distraction system, void from any percutaneous connections. The implant houses a position sensing system on-board to feedback the accomplished extraction. Both the mechanical and electrical design of this fully implantable distraction system is described. In vitro results prove the feasibility.