Kyle Koppenhoefer and Joshua Thomas of AltaSim Technologies shared their award-winning research on multiphysics simulation. They pitched on the stage of a major global medical device conference. They zeroed in on what an important aspect this technology is for providing real-time predictions of tissue heating. This challenge is all the more critical in developing medical devices, particularly those that reside post-operatively.
The conversation focused on how multiphysics simulation helps to accurately represent intricate interactions between devices, improving both safety and efficacy. These simulations help researchers understand how each device heats different tissues during use to inform usage. This understanding is important for avoiding complications, including infections, following surgical procedures.
Koppenhoefer and Thomas noted that tissue heating is a hurdle that must be overcome to achieve better patient outcomes. The fabric of medical devices is growing more advanced than ever before. Therefore, it is critical to have an understanding of their thermal effects on the surrounding tissues to utilize them most efficiently and safely.
With the help of advanced simulation techniques, AltaSim Technologies has been at the forefront of this research, focusing on solving these complicated issues. The presenters demonstrated that multiphysics simulation is the unification of multiple diverse physical processes. This integration allows for a more comprehensive assessment of device performance across a range of input conditions. This assumption improves the prediction of tissue heating in the most effective way. It integrates advanced models into the design workflow to reduce harmful thermal effects on device design.
This study has broader impacts outside of knee replacement surgeries. It affects all the medical devices used in any orthopedic surgical procedure. By improving the predictive capabilities of tissue heating through multiphysics simulations, researchers can develop safer devices that promote better healing and lower infection rates.
Koppenhoefer and Thomas illustrated their arguments through examples from real-world projects. They focused on case studies of multiphysics simulation being successfully used in the design of commercial medical devices. These use cases impressed upon all present the very real, very tangible benefits that this technology provides, cementing its usefulness in solving some of the industry’s most pressing challenges.