Breaking the Boundaries: Monitoring Joint Flexion Using Radio-Frequency Coils

Abstract

This work introduces a novel approach for monitoring joint flexion. Specifically, Radio-Frequency coils (in transmitting and receiving modes) placed symmetrically about the joint are proposed to monitor flexion by leveraging changes in the transmission coefficient as the limb flexes and extends. To demonstrate the idea, simulations in a cylindrical and homogeneous limb model are performed. Results clearly show the feasibility of monitoring joint flexion/extension using the proposed approach. This provides a new way of monitoring joint flexion while overcoming shortcomings in the state-of-the-art. Numerous medical and consumer applications may eventually benefit from the proposed approach.