Smith & Nephew Exogen Strap

Smith & Nephew, developers of advanced medical devices for healthcare professionals around the world, enlisted Design Concepts to improve the ease of properly locating the ultrasound transducer of their EXOGEN Bone Healing System. The Exogen is designed to speed healing and be prescribed by physicians for use by patients at home. Yet, placing the transducer properly can be a challenge for those with hard to reach fractures such as a broken clavicle.

Human factors specialists created a soft-sided clavicle strap applicator made of medical grade knit materials with weighted ends, allowing it to drape over the patient’s body, keeping the ultrasound transducer positioned directly over the fracture. 10.5 ounces of ballast is distributed within sealed internal compartments to prevent any shifting. The textured, PVC coated polyester knit along the bottom of the applicator provides traction without causing irritation to sensitive skin. The applicator’s top surface stretches in two directions, allowing the applicator to better conform to the shape of the body.

The clavicle strap is a solution that patients can use at home, where they may not have caregiver assistance, for a 20-minute therapy session once or twice daily for up to eight to ten weeks.

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