Affiliations: [a] Departament of Electrical Engineering, Bioelectronics
Section, Center of Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic
Institute, Zacatenco, Mexico
Correspondence:
[*]
Address for correspondence: Dr. M. Arturo Minor, Department of
Electrical Engineering, Bioelectronics Section, Center of Research and Advanced
Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute. Av. IPN 2508, Del. Gustavo A.
Madero, D.F. Mexico. Tel.: +52 5550613800; Fax: +52 50613981; E-mail:
aminor@cinvestav.mx
Abstract: This article describes the design and construction of an electronic
device to assist orthopedic surgeons in the intramedullary nailing of long
bones. The objective of the system is to reduce the cumulative radiation to
which surgeons are exposed while performing the operation, as well as reduce
the time required to complete the task. The system uses the magnetic flux of
permanent magnets and electronic sensors to determine, without the need for a
fluoroscope, the position of the distal hole in the rod. Tests show the system
is feasible.
