First patient operated on with innovative sensor technology for bone fracture drilling

The ADEPTH device from SLAM Ortho was used for the first time in a clinical study this month at Erasmus MC to treat a patient successfully. The patient had a proximal humeral fracture (upper arm fracture).

SLAM Ortho develops sensor technology for drilling machines used in bone fracture repairs. This technology allows surgeons to measure the correct implant screw length much more accurately using a laser sensor, resulting in better and faster surgeries, reduced healthcare burden, and lower costs.

One of the Early ZorgTech Innovation Projects

In 2020, the Delft-based company's development project was one of the first six projects to receive a voucher from the ZorgTech innovation program. This allowed it to further develop its promising healthcare innovation within a consortium consisting of Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis and Medical Delta Living Lab OnderzoeksOK.

"Determining implant length with a manual gauge is unreliable, and ideally, you shouldn't have to use it when placing screws," says Dr. Timo Haak, one of the first trauma surgeons to use ADEPTH. "This saves operation time and reduces wasted implants."

The next steps involve further developing the ADEPTH device and obtaining approval from regulatory authorities in the EU (CE) and the US (FDA).

Read more about Slam Ortho's ZorgTech project.

The ZorgTech innovation program is made possible by the Province of South Holland, TNO, Metropoolregio Rotterdam Den Haag (MRDH), InnovationQuarter, and Medical Delta; it is implemented by InnovationQuarter, TNO, and Medical Delta.