NIH-funded research R01 grant

Self-powered knee implant load sensors to monitor total knee replacements

Official title: Self-Powered Load Sensors for Total Knee Replacement Health Monitoring

Funded at State University of Ny,binghamton · NIH-11412579 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A tiny, self-powered sensor system is being developed to monitor the loads on a total knee replacement so doctors can keep an eye on implant health from afar.

More Total Knee Replacement research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of Ny,binghamton
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Binghamton, United States)
Project startJune 1, 2022
Project endMay 31, 2027
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$436,609
NIH project number5R01AR080798-05
Project IDNIH-11412579 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

People who have or will receive a total knee replacement could potentially benefit from this technology.

Less likely to help

The study focuses on device development using cadaver models and pre-clinical testing, so it does not involve living patients at this stage.

What this research studies

This project creates a self-powered load-sensing device that fits with a total knee replacement and can be tested in cadaver knees performing daily activities. It aims to provide quantitative data on how the joint bears weight over time without needing external power or frequent clinic visits. The work addresses post-surgical implant health, especially in the context of limited in-person care during the COVID era, by enabling remote monitoring and early detection of abnormal loading. The team plans to compare the new sensors with existing methods and assess safety, feasibility, and potential for integration into telehealth workflows.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, it could allow earlier identification of implant issues and support remote management of knee replacement patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous approaches use sensors in implants, but this project emphasizes a lead-free, self-powered solution and pre-clinical validation, representing a relatively novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • State University of Ny,binghamton
    Binghamton, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Towfighian, Shahrzad — State University of Ny,binghamton
  • Study coordinator: Towfighian, Shahrzad

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.