Dr Ryan Dean | Orthopedic Surgeon Visalia, CA

Ryan E. Dean, MD Trauma Surgeon

Orthopedic Trauma Fellowship
San Diego Orthopedic Trauma Fellowship, San Diego, CA

Orthopedic Residency
University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK

Medical Education
New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY

Undergraduate Education
University of Colorado, Boulder, CO

Dean, R., Sethi, P., (2018). A novel method for reducing gap formation in tendon repair. Journal of Orthopaedics, 15(1), 259-263.
Inventor, US Patent “Slack removal in suture constructs for tissue repair” US 10,695,048 B2
Designed study investigating the mechanism of gap formation in tendon repair.

Developed a novel stitch method, a modified Krackow, which allows for more efficient tensioning of a suture construct, resulting in reduction in suture slack, prior to final fixation of tendon repair.
Conducted a biomechanical study which found an over 75% reduction in gap formation after cyclic loading compared to traditional Krackow.
Podium presentation at Orthopedic Summit: Evolving Techniques conference.

Designed and manufactured a prototype for a handheld device capable of implementing the tensioning methodology in the operating room.

Mechanical Engineer, Inventor, US Patent “Devices, Kits and Methods Related to Treatment of Facet Joints” US 10,238,450 B2

2014 – 2015

Was responsible for design and manufacturing of a Spinal Access Device for treatment of facet joint cysts.
Modeled design iterations using Solidworks 3D CAD software.
Performed in-house prototype manufacturing including fabrication of needles, stylets, and all additional custom parts for proof of concept testing.
Accompanied team of 3 as technical design advisor during cadaveric proof of concept tests and fundraising demonstrations.
Was responsible for communication with manufacturing companies including providing engineering design drawings for samples to be used in initial patient study.
Provided illustrations for non-provisional US and European Patent applications.

Co-Founder and Inventor, US Patent “Sterilization Tray” US 10,022,464 B2

2011 – 2014

Responsible for invention of a novel sterilization container to be used in hospital sterile processing to compete with widespread filter-based trays.
Exited in January 2014 with the sale of patent rights and prototype.
Designed and manufactured a device that would eliminate the need for blue sterilization wrap and paper filters via a reusable container with an electro-mechanical, temperature- sensing, autosealing lid.
Was responsible for all technical writing for provisional and non-provisional US and European patents.
Utilized personal lathe and milling machines for prototype manufacturing.
Acted as technical lead on design concept and prototype demonstration during fundraising meetings.

Mechanical Engineer, ArthroSim – Virtual Reality Medical Arthroscopy Simulator

2012 – 2013

Responsible for designs incorporating the electrical components necessary for movement feedback to the simulator’s computer into handheld devices simulating the look and feel of the arthroscopic instruments.
Full-scope design from conception to production including initial sketches, 3D CAD modeling, drawings for manufacturing, 3D printing of prototypes, communication withmachinists, assembly, and installation.

Performed domestic and international installation and service troubleshooting/repair at various orthopedic teaching facilities.

Trauma Sales Specialist

2010 – 2011

Hired into pilot program aimed specifically at training individuals with engineering degrees for trauma implant sales.
Training primarily took place at Zimmer Headquarters, Warsaw, IN.
Resigned to pursue medical school, orthopedic residency, and orthopedic trauma fellowship.