Measuring ligament engagement during knee surgery

Intraoperative Sensor to Comprehensively Measure Ligament Engagement During Knee Arthroplasty

NIH-funded research Tensense LLC · NIH-11069479

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 IDNIH-11069479 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

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

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

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 performed: 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

Oregon, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.