NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Measuring ligament engagement during knee surgery

Official title: Intraoperative Sensor to Comprehensively Measure Ligament Engagement During Knee Arthroplasty

Funded at Tensense LLC · NIH-11069479 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new handheld device that helps surgeons measure how tight the ligaments are during knee replacement surgery, making it easier for them to balance everything and improve your recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTensense LLC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oregon, United States)
Project startJune 15, 2025
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$308,927
NIH project number1R41AG093459-01
Project IDNIH-11069479 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals scheduled to undergo total knee arthroplasty.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not candidates for knee replacement surgery or those with contraindications to the procedure may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a handheld device that measures ligament engagement during knee arthroplasty surgeries. By integrating a ligament tensiometer into a custom joint distractor, the device aims to provide real-time data on ligament tension, helping surgeons balance ligaments more effectively. The project will involve calibrating the device against established measurement standards to ensure accuracy. Ultimately, this innovation seeks to improve surgical outcomes for patients undergoing knee replacement procedures.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise knee surgeries, resulting in better recovery and function for patients.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of measuring ligament engagement is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in improving surgical precision in other orthopedic procedures.

Where this research is happening

  • Tensense LLC
    Oregon, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Arant, Lesley — Tensense LLC
  • Study coordinator: Arant, Lesley

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.