Method of measuring axial force in mammalian fibrous tissue and device

摘要

A method of detecting axial force in human and animal fibrous tissue such as ligaments, tendons and muscle tissue employs an implantable force transducer or IFT which measures lateral compressive forces as axial force is applied to the fibrous tissue. The lateral compressive forces are proportional to the axial force. Preferably the device is a curved clip formed from a band of spring steel utilizing bonded strain gages. This device is connected to a Wheatstone bridge circuit to detect flexure of curved metal clip. The device is suitable for in vivo and in vitro use.