16. Revolutionizing Orthopedic Care in Low-Income Countries, Part 3 of 3
Terry Smith at Sign Fracture Care
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Approximately 1.3 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes. More than half of all road traffic deaths are among vulnerable road users: pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Between 20 and 50 million more people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring a disability as a result of their injury.
This is where SIGN comes in. As the engineering manager, Terry speaks to us about how SIGNs design process to create trauma implants and instruments is different than the norm. How they work with surgeons from all around the world to create better products, and implement education so that each SIGN surgeon is optimally trained.
So how do they begin to create devices that serve these patients? Listen to find out!
In this Episode, We Cover:
Engineering Orthopedic Implants and Instruments for Low-Resource Areas: Terry discusses the unique engineering process of creating orthopedic implants and instruments for areas without reliable electricity or infrastructure.
Collaboration with Surgeons Worldwide for Better Products and Education: Terry explains how Sign works with surgeons from around the world to design better products and provide relevant education for optimal patient treatment.
Terry's Background and Career Journey: Terry shares his career journey, including experience in aerospace, renewable energy, and instrumentation technology, leading up to his role as Engineering Manager at Sign.
Design and Manufacturing Challenges in Low-Resource Areas: Terry Smith discusses the unique challenges faced by Sign in designing and manufacturing orthopedic implants and instruments for low-resource areas.
Different Approaches and Applications of the Nail in Orthopedic Surgeries: The speaker discusses the various approaches and applications of a nail in orthopedic surgeries, such as ante-grade and retrograde approaches, as well as the use of a single nail for multiple fractures.
Challenges in Resource-Appropriate Design for Surgeons and Hospitals: The speaker explains the challenges faced by surgeons and hospitals in resource-limited settings, including the lack of access to real-time x-ray machines and trained maintenance technicians.
The Formation of Sign and the Need for Universal Design: The speaker shares the story of Dr. Zirkle's realization that donated medical equipment was not resource-appropriate, leading to the formation of Sign and the development of a universal implant system.
Differences Between Regular Design Control Process and Orthopedic Engineering Process: Discussion on the distinctions between a regular design control process and the engineering process within orthopedics or medical devices.
Feedback-Driven Changes in Device Design and Importance of Surgeon Input: Example of feedback-driven changes in device design, specifically regarding the handle of a linear clamp, and the importance of capturing feedback from surgeons to improve devices.
Evolution and Growth of Sign as a Company: Discussion about the evolution and growth of Sign as a company.
Setting up Training Hospitals for Spine Trauma and Residency Programs: Discussion about Sign's plans to establish training hospitals in Africa and Asia to treat spine trauma and establish residency programs.
Lack of Emergency Services in Developing Countries and its Impact: Discussion on the challenges faced by developing countries in accessing emergency medical services, leading to delayed treatment and increased risk of infection.
Who is Terry Smith?
Terry joined SIGN in January 2017 as the Engineering Manager responsible for developing and maintaining SIGN products. He brings a broad background in product design, product development, program and project management in the Aerospace, Renewable Energy and Instrumentation Technology with experience in small and large organizations allowing him to navigate the challenges and rewards of startup companies and corporate organization.
Prior to joining SIGN Terry held leadership positions at the Boeing Company, Infinia Corporation, and Bruker. Throughout his career, he has worked with domestic and international teams and customers to turn ideas into designs and products.
Mr. Smith is an inventor on four patents. Earning his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wyoming.