Integrating 3D Printed Grinding Tools and Closed-Loop Temperature Management for Optimal Surgical Outcomes

Grinding is a commonly employed surgical technique for the partial removal of bone. However, the grinding process often generates excessive heat at the interface, leading to localized temperature raise. This can result in irreversible damage to not only the bone but also surrounding tissues, such as nerves. Existing devices rely on the continuous application of coolant to mitigate temperature rise. With the rate and location of coolant deposition being primarily empirical, the current process brings potential risks to patients. In this study, a novel grinding device capable of continuously monitoring grinding temperatures and applying coolant precisely when needed is designed. Utilizing additive manufacturing techniques, a customized grinding tool head equipped with embedded temperature sensors and coolant channels is successfully created. This innovation has enabled the development of an intelligent closed-loop device that provides precise temperature control during surgery. The device effectively maintains the grinding surface temperature within the user-defined range, with a latency of less than 1 s. Furthermore, the design ensures that the coolant spray outlets remain unobstructed by debris during grinding and effectively removes debris at the interface, reducing the risk of potential complications, such as bone hyperplasia.