In 2008, Owase Jeelani invented CranioXpand, a cranial spring distractor system. This distractor system and his technique makes surgery safer, less intrusive and the outcome more predictable. Wireforms had been in use in Craniofacial surgery for over a decade but each procedure generated limited transferable knowledge due to lack of conformity. Owase set out to rectify this and with a team of engineers designed the CranioXpand, spring distractor system. The use of these spring distractors allow for a more granular analysis of the surgical treatment with a wider range of data capture. The data is analysed using Finite Element and Statistical shape modelling techniques; the biomechanical properties of the paediatric skull calculated and prediction models made. The algorithms are adjusted and robust clinical testing confirms the accuracy of the prediction models in calculating spring expansion and the resultant calvarial change.
“We can predict the outcome of the surgery with over 90% accuracy, before lifting a scalpel.”
The next step was to put the prediction algorithms on a VR platform and use it to further refine the operation and engage with the child’s family, for optimal outcomes. BBC Click succinctly captured this journey for us.
