Orthopedic Brace Failure Leads to Severe Injuries

Case Overview

This case study delves into an incident involving a 45-year-old patient with a history of arthritis, who was wheelchair-bound. The individual sustained severe orthopedic and neurological injuries following a fall after the placement of a Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) brace.

Upon further examination, it was discovered that a crucial pin integral to the KAFO brace’s structure was missing. There was a question as to whether this missing component contributed to the brace’s failure. Professional insight was provided by a biomedical engineering expert.

Questions to the expert and their responses

Can you elaborate on your experience designing or advising on the design of braces such as KAFO?

I bring over 15 years of biomechanics experience to the table. My background includes teaching mechanical engineering students about designing objects like the KAFO brace that interact with the body and alter natural biomechanics.

While my specific experience with the KAFO brace is limited, I have been involved in redesigning passive knee braces for rehabilitation purposes.

Based on your experience, what are typical baseline safeguards for preventing brace failure such as in this case?

To provide an accurate answer, I would need access to either the design/drawings of the device or an actual device to assess its design and potential failure points. However, generally speaking, all medical devices should be designed with safety measures to prevent failures that could harm patients.

About the expert

This expert brings over 15 years of experience in biomechanics engineering, with a strong academic background that includes a BS in Aerospace Engineering and a PhD in Bioengineering. They have an impressive track record of publications in the biomechanical engineering field, conference presentations, and hold two patents. Currently serving as an associate professor of mechanical engineering and associate dean at a university, they also advise and invest in a robotic rehabilitation device company and provide consultancy services in biomechanics.