Kestrel researched clinical and commercial applications and gathered insights into the market potential for a novel guided growth control system used in paediatric lower limb growth defect correction.
Background:
Misalignment of lower limb joints as a result of unevenly growing bones is a debilitating condition affecting children as young as 3 years, but more common during adolescence. It can result in impaired mobility, excessive pain and premature arthritis. Historically, crooked joints have been repaired by cutting the leg bones and straightening with metal braces. Current treatments include guided growth where surgical plates restrict growth on one side of the joint.
Requirement:
Guided growth plates are effective at correcting lower limb misalignment, but the treatment is time-critical and timely removal of plates is vital to prevent over-correction. Scheduling plate removal is difficult and frequently missed with sub-optimal patient outcomes.
Researchers have developed a system where “disconnection” of the plates can be done externally using a magnetic collar.
Kestrel was engaged to determine the clinical benefit and market potential of the solution.
Response:
Over a three-month project, Kestrel contacted and interviewed researchers, clinicians, KOLs, orthopaedics organisations and manufacturers in medical, including the inventor of the guided growth technique, to understand the clinical and commercial demand,.
Kestrel arranged online meetings to discuss clinical and market needs, market opportunities, risks, rival technologies and funding routes.
Result:
The technology was acknowledged to be novel, effective, practical and cost effective with significant patient outcome benefits.
Commercial development routes are currently being progressed.