Creating smart implants for shoulder replacement surgery
Official title: Development of Smart Implants for Shoulder Arthroplasty
Funded at Scripps Health · NIH-11036210 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new smart shoulder implants that can track how well they’re holding up over time, helping both you and your doctor understand how the implant is doing and prevent problems that might require more surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $317,259 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG091160-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036210 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are scheduled to undergo total shoulder arthroplasty, particularly those with conditions like cuff tear arthropathy or proximal humerus fractures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for shoulder arthroplasty or those with contraindications to implant surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative smart implants for total shoulder arthroplasty, which can continuously monitor the loading conditions of the prosthesis throughout its lifespan. By integrating load-sensing technology into the implants, the project aims to provide real-time feedback to both patients and healthcare providers about the performance of the implant. This information could help in understanding and preventing common issues such as instability and loosening that often lead to revision surgeries. The research involves designing, manufacturing, and testing these advanced implants to improve patient outcomes and enhance mobility and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved outcomes for patients undergoing shoulder replacement surgery by reducing the need for revision surgeries and enhancing the longevity of the implants.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in the development of smart implants in various orthopedic applications, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Health
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: D'lima, Darryl D. — Scripps Health
- Study coordinator: D'lima, Darryl D.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.