ANSYS > Case Studies > Optimizing Orthopedic Implants with IoT: A Case Study of DePuy Spine, Inc.

Optimizing Orthopedic Implants with IoT: A Case Study of DePuy Spine, Inc.

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Technology Category
  • Sensors - Pressure Sensors
  • Wearables - Implants
Applicable Industries
  • Electronics
  • Healthcare & Hospitals
Applicable Functions
  • Product Research & Development
Use Cases
  • Structural Health Monitoring
About The Customer
DePuy Spine Inc. is a rapidly growing company within the medical device and diagnostic sector of Johnson & Johnson. It is a leading supplier of orthopedic spinal implants, providing solutions for patients suffering from spinal conditions resulting from degenerative diseases, deformities, trauma, and sports-related injuries. One of their leading products is the CHARITÉ artificial disc, which is the first device introduced in the U.S. as an alternative to spinal fusion surgery for the treatment of lower back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. The company is committed to continuous research and development to improve the performance and effectiveness of their products.
The Challenge
DePuy Spine Inc., a leading supplier of orthopedic spinal implants, has been striving to improve the behavior of total disc replacement implants, particularly the CHARITÉ artificial disc. This three-piece articulating device is designed to eliminate pain and maintain motion of the operative segment, offering an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. However, understanding the effect of implant placement within the disc space on the loading of the facets, known to generate pain when supraphysiologically loaded, posed a significant challenge. Traditional studies involving cadaveric testing with strain gauges and pressure sensors were time-consuming, expensive, and often inconclusive. The company needed a more efficient and accurate method to understand and optimize the performance of the CHARITÉ artificial disc.
The Solution
DePuy Spine researchers turned to ANSYS Structural, a powerful simulation software, to model and analyze the performance of the CHARITÉ artificial disc. They obtained contoured geometry of the vertebrae from computer tomography (CT) scans of actual bone structure and modeled all parts of the CHARITÉ and surrounding tissue using ANSYS standard preprocessing capabilities. The analysis was conducted on a standard Intel-based IBM M Pro desktop workstation. ANSYS's ability to represent nonlinear material properties was critical in this study, and its surface-to-surface contact elements aided in contact representation by automatically detecting and adjusting dissimilar meshes. This innovative approach allowed the researchers to determine the optimal placement of the artificial disc and understand its impact on spine biomechanics.
Operational Impact
  • The use of ANSYS Structural simulation software has brought about significant operational benefits for DePuy Spine. It has enabled the company to gain valuable insights into spine biomechanics, which were not well understood previously. This knowledge is crucial for the continuing development of artificial disc and related technologies. Furthermore, the results of this simulation-based study are being used by DePuy Spine in collaboration with some of the world's most respected spine surgeons to fine-tune procedures and techniques for optimal positioning of the device. This not only enhances the effectiveness of the CHARITÉ artificial disc but also contributes to improved patient outcomes.
Quantitative Benefit
  • Significant reduction in strain and loads on facets with the mobile core CHARITÉ compared to a fixed core competitive device.
  • Efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional cadaveric testing methods.
  • Optimized placement of the artificial disc, improving its performance and effectiveness.

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