October 21, 2022
Dr. Ben Saks, orthopedic surgeon
Our interview with Dr. Ben Saks informed us that LET is a popular topic within the field of orthopedic surgery. More is being published on this type of procedure and the procedure will likely become more common. There are many ACL guides already on the market and being used in operating rooms, but none for LET. Therefore, there is both a need and an opportunity for innovation for drill guides specifically for LET tunnels.
September 6, 2022
Dr. Aaron Colman, orthopedic surgeon
Our interview with Dr. Aaron Colman helped to set us on the track of designing orthopedic tools by giving us an example of the types of problems that need addressing within the field. Specifically, we learned that during hip replacement surgeries, the femoral head must detach from the ball and socket joint (the socket being the acetabulum). However, there is a ligament connecting the femoral head to the acetabulum called the ligamentum teres that must be severed to remove the femoral head from the joint, but it is very tough and difficult to cut.
Given the tight confines of the joint space, the angle at which the surgeon has to cut the ligament is awkward. Thus, a surgical tool with improved configuration and mobility was a potential problem statement for our team.
September 26, 2022
Dr. David Karas, pediatric ENT surgeon
ENT surgeries are very precise in nature, working in very small spaces
There are especially difficulties in leverage and visualization of incisions. These difficulties could pose both surgical effectiveness and safety issues, especially in head or neck tumor operations
September 12, 2022
Katelin Clancy, Physical Therapy student
Our interview with Katelin gave us deeper insight into daily tasks of a physical therapist and allowed us to recognize some of the issues physical therapists encounter.
October 23, 2023
Dr. William Schell, Orthopedic Surgeon
The interview with Dr. Schell walked us through the procedure for ACLR and gave deeper insights into different techniques used.