Mexican researchers are working on the redesign of bone prostheses with which to reduce fractures and surgical invasion in children with osteogenesis imperfecta, reported today the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN).
From telescopic nails that do not move within the bone, these implants are self-expanding, adjusting to the organic growth of the infant’s bones and thus avoiding nail replacement surgeries throughout their life.
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a congenital disorder characterized by an excessive fragility in the bones as a consequence of a deficiency of collagen in the bone structure.
In Mexico, this disease affects more than 5,000 people, of which most do not receive medical attention due to ignorance and lack of sufficient financial resources.
The research by the doctor in Sciences Christopher René Torres focuses on the reconstruction of bone tissue of long bones such as the femur, tibia and humerus from the redesign of prostheses.
To these implants we also add the design of a computerized numerical model with which it was possible to identify more porous and low intensity bone areas to recreate conditions similar to this type of condition.
This technology allows to analyze the loading conditions of the implant such as flexion, torsion and internal compression of the cords.
The investigation arose as part of an academic work of the Higher School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (ESIME) Unidad Zacatenco, at the IPN.
The Angelitos de Cristal institution, which offers physiotherapy and psychological support services, supported this research and, once finished, the re-engineering of the prostheses will seek private financing for subsequent commercialization.
