Final Design

Figure: Final design of the cranial distraction device (middle). The drive mechanism is a lead screw (bottom left) that is driven by a bevel gear design (top right), with an attached magnet that is actuated by remote control. 

Direct health consequences from this condition include permanent distortion of the skull and face, respiratory blockage, and stunted brain growth. This condition occurs approximately 1 in 2500 births and requires immediate diagnosis and treatment to avoid severe neurological complications.

The current technique used for infants between ages 3-6 months to treat craniosynostosis is a surgical method called posterior cranial vault distraction. A surgeon will create the necessary incisions in the skull and temporarily implant a device intended to prevent pressure on the infant’s brain and to provide space for proper brain development. This procedure has been proven effective due to infant’s rapid ability to reform bone.

A study [1] compared internal and external distraction devices and showed that nearly 30% of external devices became infected, while only 6% of internal devices were infected. Magnetic actuation allows the distraction device to be completely internalized underneath the skin. The remote control actuates the device through two rotating magnets that in turn mechanically extends the device! This device also allows a more low-profile design that fits better to the curvature of the patient’s skull. 

[1] “Pediatric/Craniofacial External versus Internal Distraction Devices in Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Craniofacial Anomalies.” Adi Rachmiel, DMD, PhD. Saleh Nseir, DMD.  Omri Emodi, DMD.  Dror Aizenbud, DMD.

Page Notes: Describe your final design here in more detail than the front page. Use your best figures and material from your presentations and report. Include a summary of the project's performance. This page is similar to the executive summary but is in a webpage format.