VISSI

Fractures of the pelvis due to osteoporosis primarily affect older adults. When surgery is necessary, the surgeon places an implant in the pelvis. However, the iliosacral screw fixation may be at risk of loosening, compromising the stability of the fracture and potentially requiring reoperation.

VISSI aims to improve the effectiveness of orthopedic surgeries for fragility fractures of the pelvis. The project is developing iliosacral screws whose design parameters are optimized to improve their biomechanical performance in fragile bone. The design is guided by numerical simulations, design of experiments, and testing on artificial and cadaveric pelvises.

VISSI screws are designed to improve the primary stability of the fixation in osteoporotic bone and to minimize the risk of loosening. They may thus promote fracture healing, reduce the need for reoperations, and help patients maintain their independence.

The technology is based on well-established principles and has the potential for industrial-scale production using existing processes. However, the project must further validate its proof of concept through additional laboratory and ex vivo testing.

VISSI screws are intended for the minimally invasive surgical fixation of fragility fractures of the pelvis in elderly patients. They could be used by orthopedic surgery teams to improve the stability of the fixation.