Throughout the BoneFix project, AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) has conducted mechanical evaluations on the fixation patch component of BoneFix. These tests have investigated the tolerance of bone fractures fixated with metal screws and composite patches towards bending and torsional forces. Thus far the tests have been monotonic, i.e. the fracture has been loaded until failure. Now ARI is evaluating the ability of the fixation patch to withstand cyclic loading in order to determine the fatigue properties of the fixation. Conducting the testing at ARI is Paula Cameron, a non-medical research fellow and new member of the BoneFix team.
Originally from Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, Paula completed her Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Physics at the University of BC in nearby Vancouver. She then completed a master’s degree at the University of Bern in Switzerland, where she specialized in biomechanics; investigating how the soft tissues of the hip can absorb the impact force experienced during a sideways fall. She has since moved to Davos to join the ARI team. Her main interest in the BoneFix project is the opportunity to get hands-on experience with a novel osteosynthesis technique. “I think it’s fascinating that the patches can be applied in a customizable way and could stay in the body after the bone is healed.”
Outside of work, Paula is looking forward to learning to ski during her first winter in Davos. She also enjoys outdoor sports so will no doubt enjoy her time at ARI. We look forward to posting an update about the outcome of the cyclic testing in 2024.
