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Design of self compressing spinal fixation hook

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Project Overview

​Spinal hooks are tools used to improve improper curvature of the spine caused by scoliosis and kyphosis. During surgery, complications arise when an orthopedic surgeon needs to compress the spine using a mechanical compressor; the compressor can be difficult to maneuver around the spine without the need for a larger, more invasive incision into the patient’s surrounding tissues. Our goal is to design a self­compressing spinal hook that eliminates the need for a mechanical compressor. This will hopefully reduce the patient’s postoperative recovery time as well decrease the surgical time.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Brian Yasosky, Annamarie Ciancio, Emma Alley, Trenton Roeber, Karl Fetsch
Team members from left to right: Brian Yasosky, Annamarie Ciancio, Emma Alley, Trenton Roeber, Karl Fetsch

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Annamarie Ciancio - Team Leader
  • Emma Alley - Communicator
  • Trenton Roeber - BSAC
  • Brian Yasosky - BWIG
  • Karl Fetsch - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Prof. John Puccinelli - Advisor
  • Dr. Matthew Halanski - Client
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