| abstract |
An apparatus ( 10 ) that utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology to provide an in vivo assessment of loads on adjacent bones ( 24 and 26 ) comprises a body ( 34 ) for insertion between the adjacent bones. At least one sensor ( 42 ) is associated with the body ( 34 ). The sensor ( 42 ) generates an output signal in response to and indicative of a load being applied to the body ( 34 ) through the adjacent bones ( 24 and 26 ). A telemetric device ( 40 ) is operatively coupled with the sensor ( 42 ). The telemetric device ( 40 ) is operable to receive the output signal from the sensor ( 42 ) and to transmit an EMF signal dependent upon the output signal. According to various aspects of the invention, the sensor comprises a pressure sensor ( 42 ), a load cell ( 320 ), and/or at least one strain gauge ( 142 ). |