Background

The ankle joint is one of the common locations for osteochondral defects (OCDs), which is damage of articular cartilage and possibly subchondral bone. If OCDs are left untreated, there is a potential risk of developing early osteoarthritis. Therefore, early detection and treatment of OCDs is highly important. We are currently designing a minimally invasive instrument that can enter the ankle joint and then detect and treat the OCD. Currently, OCDs can be detected using several methods, however, all these methods have drawbacks. A new mechanical detection method could give real-time quantitative information on the cartilage defect. It could indicate a wider range of defects, be more robust and reusable.

Assignment

The aim of this project is to develop a system that allows us to do measure the location of the instrument tip within the ankle joint non-invasively and to visualise this in an intuitive manner. A literature study could focus on possible detection methods and mapping systems. Following this, the project would focus on the development of a working prototype and its validation in a cadaver model.

Daily coach: Elise Buiter / Gabrielle Tuijthof