Civil Engineers Helped To Create World’s First Autonomous Sensors For Spinal Treatment
Credit: University of Pittsburgh
Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have developed the world’s first autonomous spinal implant based on metamaterials. The project, funded by the US government, aims to remotely monitor the healing of spinal injuries in real time to enable early intervention if complications arise.
Every year, about a million Americans undergo spinal fusion—a procedure to fuse the vertebrae together. Traditionally, doctors use metal frames, bone grafts, and screws, and healing progress is assessed through X-rays and patient feedback.
“This means patients must come in for appointments and be exposed to radiation, making continuous monitoring nearly impossible,” says Agarwal.
Existing wireless implants are powered by batteries and electronics, but their lifespan is limited. Alavi saw a solution in his experience with bridge sensors that autonomously harvest energy and signal stress.
The implant is made of composite metamaterials with alternating conductive and non-conductive layers. These layers collect energy from mechanical forces—from pressure and spinal movements—and transmit signals.
An electrode on the patient’s back reads the implant’s signals and transmits the data to the cloud, where doctors can track progress. Generative artificial intelligence helps customize the cage’s size and shape to the individual patient: first, the spine is scanned, then a perfectly fitting cage is printed.
In the next stage, the new sensors must be tested on animals, and if the results are positive, the method will be tested on humans.
