Smart splint for diagnosis during initial stage of treatment

Abstract

[EN]Nowadays, after suffering certain musculoskeletal rupture injuries, the only treatment available is the use of plaster cast. However, this type of treatment, that is similar to the used originally by the Persians in the 10th century, has some disadvantages, that are still present nowadays. It usually causes discomfort due to the weight (around 1,5kg) and the restrictions to refresh the skin. Moreover, it is not submersible and it is not possible to apply certain kind of treatments, like ultrasounds or infrared. It also may appear complications at the vascular, muscular or even articular level due to these problems.This project aims to show there is a really possible option that would solve these inconvenient. Moreover, it would allow a faster and better recovery, combining 3D prototyping, 3D scanning, medicine, engineering and materials evolution. This study proposes the use of sensor integration inside the splints to detect any kind of problem during the treatment process. These sensors get different data like pressure, color, humidity and temperature from the splint. After that, these parameters are analyzed to determine any unexpected evolution and sent by telematic channels to be consulted remotely by a specialist.