Dynamic Load Transfer Characteristics of Meniscal Substitutes: An In Vitro Model

Principle Investigator

Suzanne Maher, PhD

Scope

The objective of this project is to utilize a newly developed experimental test apparatus to measure the dynamic contact pressures transferred to the tibial plateau during gait in a human knee. We have designed constructs intended to replace damaged or partly damaged menisci, however, the ability of these substitutes to carry load much in the way of the native tissue is unknown. Our hypothesis is that tibial plateau contact pressure will be inversely related to the modulus of the meniscal substitute. This hypothesis will be tested by comparing pressure measurements made in the intact, injured, and repaired conditions in a series of cadaveric knees under physiologic loads and kinematics. This project is a collaborative effort between members of the Department of Biomechanics and Sports Medicine faculty at Hospital for Special Surgery and faculty members at Drexel University. As such, the summer student will (a) assist with knee preparation and fixturing (ii) assist with surgical implantation technique and dynamic testing (iii) extract and analyze the data from the pressure measurement system, and (iv) help to interpret the clinical relevance of the data generated.

Contact

Suzanne Maher, PhD
mahers@hss.edu