Arthroscopic joint gap distraction device

By optimizing the design of the tibial and femoral support components and combining detachable bone screws with connecting arms, the problems of poor angle adjustment and soft tissue compatibility of existing spreading devices have been solved, achieving stable support and rapid installation, thus improving surgical efficiency and patient recovery.

CN224155693UActive Publication Date: 2026-04-24SHENSHAN MEDICAL CENT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL OF SUN YAT-SEN UNIV
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SHENSHAN MEDICAL CENT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL OF SUN YAT-SEN UNIV
Filing Date
2025-01-18
Publication Date
2026-04-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing arthroscopic retractors have shortcomings in terms of angle adjustment and soft tissue compatibility. They are prone to slipping or loosening, affecting surgical precision and potentially causing damage to cartilage and surrounding tissues. Furthermore, their large size makes them susceptible to interference with other surgical instruments.

Method used

An arthroscopic joint space opening device was designed, which adopts structural optimization of tibial support components and femoral support components, including a spoon-shaped bottom and an arc-shaped convex surface design. Combined with a detachable bone screw and a connecting arm, it can achieve precise fit to the tibial cartilage surface, provide stable support, and achieve rapid installation and removal through the cooperation of the detachable bone screw and the connecting arm.

Benefits of technology

It improves the ease of operation and adaptability of the retraction device, reduces damage to cartilage and surrounding soft tissues, shortens postoperative recovery time, and avoids interference with other surgical instruments.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides an arthroscopic joint gap distraction device, and particularly relates to the technical field of medical instruments. Aiming at the problems of difficulty in angle adjustment, poor compatibility with soft tissues, inconvenience in operation and the like of the existing joint gap distraction device, the utility model provides the joint gap distraction device under the arthroscope, which comprises distraction forceps and a tibia supporting component, and the tibia supporting component is rotationally connected with one end of the distraction forceps; the thighbone supporting assembly comprises a connecting arm and a detachable bone nail, the connecting arm is rotationally connected with the other end of the distraction forceps, and the detachable bone nail is detachably connected with the connecting arm. The structure optimization and function improvement of the supporting assembly, the distraction forceps and the connecting part of the device provide reliable technical guarantee for arthroscopic surgery.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to an arthroscopic joint space opening device. Background Technology

[0002] Arthroscopic surgery, as a minimally invasive surgical method, has been widely used in the treatment of joint problems such as the knee, shoulder, and hip. During arthroscopic surgery, in order to observe, diagnose, and treat diseased tissue within the joint, it is usually necessary to widen the joint space using a dispersing device to provide sufficient space for the insertion and manipulation of surgical instruments.

[0003] However, existing distraction devices typically rely on a single fixation structure, such as simple clamps or bone screws. These structures may slip or loosen during the procedure, affecting surgical precision and even causing additional damage to the articular cartilage and surrounding tissues. Furthermore, some distraction devices have poorly designed contact components with inadequate surface treatment, which may result in excessive pressure on the cartilage surface during distraction, causing soft tissue damage and prolonging postoperative recovery time.

[0004] Furthermore, existing devices lack flexibility in adjusting the angle and direction of joint space opening, making it difficult to adapt to different patients' anatomical structures and complex surgical scenarios. Some opening devices are also quite large, which may interfere with other surgical instruments in the surgical space, affecting surgical efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems such as difficulty in adjusting the angle, poor compatibility with soft tissues, and inconvenience in operation, this invention aims to provide an arthroscopic joint space opening device. Through structural optimization and functional improvements to the support components, opening forceps, and connecting parts, this device provides reliable technical support for arthroscopic surgery.

[0006] The main idea of ​​the technical solution adopted in this utility model is as follows: The device of this utility model, by setting a spoon-shaped bottom and an arc-shaped convex surface in the tibial support component, can accurately conform to the surface of the tibial cartilage, providing uniform and stable support force during the opening process, while effectively reducing pressure and potential damage to the cartilage and surrounding soft tissues. In addition, the femoral support component, by setting a connecting arm and a detachable bone screw, realizes the rapid installation and removal of the device from the femur, which not only ensures the convenience of operation during the operation, but also reduces the secondary trauma caused by bone screw removal after the operation, providing an important guarantee for the patient's postoperative recovery.

[0007] The technical objective of this utility model is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0008] An arthroscopic joint space opening device includes an opening forceps, characterized in that it further includes a tibial support assembly, which is rotatably connected to one end of the opening forceps; and a femoral support assembly, which includes a connecting arm and a detachable bone screw, which is rotatably connected to the other end of the opening forceps, and the detachable bone screw is detachably connected to the connecting arm.

[0009] To achieve the above technical solution, a further preferred solution is: the bottom of the tibial support component is arc-shaped, with the convex surface of the arc facing downwards.

[0010] Furthermore, the adjustment edge is provided with multiple first adjustment holes, and the left and right halves of the basin are respectively provided with multiple second and third adjustment holes that cooperate with it.

[0011] Furthermore, the upper surface of the tibial support component is provided with an arc-shaped groove, the cross-section of which is bracket-shaped.

[0012] Furthermore, based on the above technical solution, the detachable bone screw includes a screw body and a connector, the connector being disposed at the end of the connecting arm, and the screw body being detachably connected to the connecting arm via the connector.

[0013] Furthermore, the end of the cavity inside the nail body is provided with a snap-fit ​​component, the snap-fit ​​component's slot being compatible with the T-shaped snap-fit ​​connector of the connector.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, this utility model has the following technical effects:

[0015] By incorporating a tibial support component with a spoon-shaped bottom and curved convex surface, it precisely conforms to the surface of the tibial cartilage, providing uniform and stable support during dislocation and preventing damage to the cartilage and surrounding soft tissues caused by concentrated local pressure. Furthermore, its rotating connection with the dislocator allows for flexible angle adjustment according to surgical needs, accommodating different patients.

[0016] By incorporating a femoral support component and utilizing the connecting arm and detachable bone screws, the device can be quickly installed and removed from the femur. This ensures ease of operation during surgery and reduces patient trauma and recovery time post-operatively through rapid removal of the bone screws. The flexible design of the connecting arm further enhances the device's adaptability, enabling it to meet the surgical needs of different patients. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below.

[0018] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of an arthroscopic joint space opening device according to the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the tibial support component and the femoral support component of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the tibial support component of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the tibial support component of this utility model;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the femoral support component of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the femoral support component of this utility model;

[0024] In the figure, 1-spreading clamp; 11-first clamp arm; 111-first hinge hole; 12-second clamp arm; 121-second hinge hole; 13-joint axis; 14-locking element; 2-tibial support assembly; 21-first pivot; 3-femoral support assembly; 31-connecting arm; 311-second pivot; 32-removable bone screw; 321-screw body; 322-connector; 3221-clamping element. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments, not all embodiments.

[0026] refer to Figure 1-6 This application discloses an arthroscopic joint space opening device, including an opening forceps 1, and further including: a tibial support assembly 2, which is rotatably connected to one end of the opening forceps 1; and a femoral support assembly 3, which includes a connecting arm 31 and a detachable bone screw 32, the connecting arm 31 being rotatably connected to the other end of the opening forceps 1, and the detachable bone screw 32 being detachably connected to the connecting arm 31.

[0027] like Figure 1 The prying clamp 1 includes a first clamp arm 11 and a second clamp arm 12. The first clamp arm 11 and the second clamp arm 12 are rotatably connected by a joint shaft 13, and a locking element 14 is provided on the first clamp arm 11.

[0028] Specifically, the first clamp arm 11 has a long rod-shaped structure, with one end being a hand-held part for easy application of opening and closing force; the other end is connected to the second clamp arm 12 via a joint axis 13 to form a movable opening structure. A locking member 14 is provided in the middle of the first clamp arm 11 to fix the opening and closing angle of the two clamp arms during the opening operation, so as to avoid affecting the surgical accuracy due to loosening or displacement.

[0029] Specifically, the second clamp arm 12 is similar in structure to the first clamp arm 11. One end of the second clamp arm 12 is a hand-held part, and the other end is connected to the joint axis 13. The second clamp arm 12 cooperates with the first clamp arm 11 to open the joint gap through opening and closing actions.

[0030] Specifically, the locking element 14 is an arc-shaped tooth structure installed in the middle of the first clamp arm 11, which can engage with the corresponding slot of the second clamp arm 12, thereby locking the relative position of the two clamp arms. The arc-shaped design of the locking element 14 allows users to operate with one hand, and precise angle adjustment can be achieved by adjusting the engagement position of the teeth.

[0031] like Figure 2 The femoral support assembly 3 is rotatably connected to the second clamp arm 12, and the rotation direction of the femoral support assembly 3 is perpendicular to the opening direction of the spreading clamp 1. The femoral support assembly 3 includes a connecting arm 31 and a detachable bone screw 32. The connecting arm 31 is rotatably connected to the end of the second clamp arm 12, and the detachable bone screw 32 is detachably connected to the connecting arm 31.

[0032] like Figure 5 The connecting arm 31 is a long rod-shaped structure, one end of which is rotatably connected to the second hinge hole 121 at the end of the second clamp arm 12 via the second rotating shaft 311, so that the femoral support assembly 3 can change its angle as the second clamp arm 12 is adjusted to adapt to different surgical needs. The surface of the connecting arm 31 is polished to reduce friction with the soft tissue of the surgical area.

[0033] like Figure 6 The detachable bone screw 32 includes a screw body 321 and a connector 322. The connector 322 is located at the end of the connecting arm 31, and the screw body 321 is detachably connected to the connecting arm 31 through the connector 322. The end of the internal cavity of the screw body 321 is provided with a snap-fit ​​member 3221, and the snap-fit ​​groove of the snap-fit ​​member 3221 is adapted to the T-shaped snap-fit ​​connector of the connector 322.

[0034] Specifically, the nail body 321 has a slender cylindrical structure with a pointed tip at one end. The tip is angled for easy insertion into the femoral surface and fixation into the bone during surgery. The middle part of the nail body 321 is solid to provide the necessary mechanical strength and compressive resistance. The other end of the nail body has a cavity, at the end of which a retaining clip 3221 is fixedly installed.

[0035] Specifically, the outer wall of the screw body 321 has multiple annular grooves to enhance its embedding force in the bone and prevent loosening due to external forces during surgery. The length and diameter of the screw body 321 are optimized according to surgical needs to meet the bone structure of different patients.

[0036] Specifically, the connector 322 is a T-shaped structure located at the end of the connecting arm 31, which includes a laterally extending snap-fit ​​connector. The cross-sectional shape of the snap-fit ​​connector matches the snap-fit ​​groove of the snap-fit ​​connector 3221, enabling quick insertion and secure fixation. The connector 322 is integrally formed with the connecting arm 31 or fixed by screws to ensure its overall stability with the connecting arm 31.

[0037] It is worth noting that the snap-fit ​​component 3221 is an embedded structure located at the end of the cavity inside the nail body 321. Its main body is made of elastic material, allowing it to deform appropriately during assembly to facilitate snap-fitting and disassembly. The snap-fit ​​component 3221 has a T-shaped slot inside, which matches the T-shaped snap-fit ​​connector of the connector 322, achieving a precise mechanical connection. The inner wall of the slot has a fine anti-slip texture to increase the friction of the snap-fit ​​and prevent loosening or slippage during use.

[0038] Specifically, the body 321 of the removable bone screw 32 is inserted into the femoral surface through its tip and fixed in the bone. The direction of the screw body 321 is perpendicular to the axis of the connecting arm 31, maintaining the optimal support angle during surgical operation. The connector 322 is fixed to the end of the connecting arm 31 and extends into the internal cavity of the screw body 321 through a T-shaped clamp, engaging with the clamp 3221.

[0039] like Figure 4 The tibial support assembly 2 is provided with a first rotating shaft 21. The first rotating shaft 21 is rotatably connected to the first clamp arm 11 through the first hinge hole 111 at its end. The first rotating shaft 21 can make the tibial support assembly 2 rotate in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction of the opening clamp 1. The bottom of the tibial support assembly 2 is spoon-shaped, and the bottom of the end is arc-shaped with the arc-shaped convex surface facing downward. The upper surface of the main body of the tibial support assembly 2 is provided with an arc-shaped groove, and the cross-section of the groove is bracket-shaped.

[0040] Specifically, the main body of the tibial support component 2 is an arc-shaped strip structure with a spoon-shaped end, resembling a shallow spoon in overall shape. The bottom of the end of the tibial support component 2 is arc-shaped with the convex surface facing downwards, designed to conform to the surface of the tibial cartilage. The curvature of the arc-shaped convex surface matches the anatomical structure of the tibia, ensuring a large contact area and uniform force distribution, thereby effectively avoiding pressure and damage to the cartilage surface. The main body is made of medical-grade stainless steel or titanium alloy, possessing good biocompatibility and mechanical strength, capable of withstanding the pressure applied during surgery.

[0041] Specifically, the upper surface of the tibial support component 2 has an arc-shaped groove along its length. The cross-section of the groove is bracket-shaped, specifically resembling a quotation mark (). This design allows the groove to precisely receive the second clamp arm 12 of the retractor forceps 1 or the protruding structure at its end, thus forming a reliable mechanical connection. The arc-shaped groove design not only enhances the connection stability between the component and the retractor forceps 1 but also provides good operational flexibility. At the same time, the groove also provides sufficient space for the smooth use of surgical instruments (such as meniscus suture devices).

[0042] Specifically, the tibial support component 2 is designed with a thickness of 5-6 mm, a width of 6-8 mm, and a moderate length, allowing it to be easily inserted into the surgical area through the surgical incision. The overall shape of the component is compact, avoiding interference with other surgical instruments, while also providing sufficient space for the use of a meniscus suturer (approximately 2 mm in diameter).

[0043] The workflow of this embodiment is as follows:

[0044] Ensure that the retractor forceps 1, femoral support assembly 3, and tibial support assembly 2 are clean, undamaged, and correctly assembled. Check that the first arm 11 and the second arm 12 of the retractor forceps 1 can rotate normally, that the shaft connection is secure, and that the locking element 14 can lock and release flexibly. Verify that the insertion structure of the bone screw and the connecting arm 31 is compatible and easy to assemble and disassemble.

[0045] Under arthroscopic guidance, the tibial support component 2 is inserted into the target position through a surgical incision, ensuring that its bottom arcuate convex surface conforms to the tibial cartilage surface. The angle and position of the component are adjusted to ensure that the arcuate groove faces upward, facilitating connection with the second clamp arm 12 of the retractor 1.

[0046] Guided during the procedure, the tip of the nail body 321 is first inserted into the femoral surface, and its annular groove design securely fixes it to the bone. Next, the T-shaped locking connector of the connector 322 is inserted into the internal cavity of the nail body 321, ensuring accurate alignment between the T-shaped connector and the locking groove of the connector 3221. After locking, the connector 322 is firmly locked in place by the elastically deformable locking connector 3221, ensuring a stable connection between the nail body 321 and the connecting arm 31.

[0047] By applying external force to the hand of the forceps 1, the first forceps arm 11 and the second forceps arm 12 rotate around the axis of rotation, gradually widening the distance between the femoral support assembly 3 and the tibial support assembly 2. During the widening process, arthroscopy is used for real-time observation to ensure that the degree of widening meets the surgical requirements, while avoiding excessive compression of the cartilage and surrounding tissues.

[0048] Once the device is extended to the target position, the locking mechanism 14 is used to fix the relative positions of the first clamp arm 11 and the second clamp arm 12, maintaining the extended state. This ensures that the device is stable after locking and that there is no loosening.

[0049] After the meniscus is opened, a meniscus repair or suturing operation is performed using a meniscus suturer or other surgical instruments. The opening device is compact and does not interfere with the operation of surgical instruments such as suturers.

[0050] After the surgical procedure is completed, unlock the locking piece 14 and slowly loosen the spreading forceps 1, allowing the first forceps arm 11 and the second forceps arm 12 to return to their initial state. By slightly rotating the connector 322 to release the friction between the locking piece and the locking slot, the locking piece 3221 elastically returns to its original position, thereby achieving quick disassembly.

[0051] It should be understood that the above detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An arthroscopic joint space opening device, comprising opening forceps (1), characterized in that, Also includes; Tibial support assembly (2), which is rotatably connected to one end of the spreading forceps (1); The femoral support assembly (3) includes a connecting arm (31) and a detachable bone screw (32). The connecting arm (31) is rotatably connected to the other end of the spreading forceps (1), and the detachable bone screw (32) is detachably connected to the connecting arm (31).

2. The arthroscopic joint space opening device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the tibial support component (2) is arc-shaped, with the arc-shaped convex surface facing downwards.

3. The arthroscopic joint space opening device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper surface of the main body of the tibial support component (2) is provided with an arc-shaped groove, and the cross-section of the groove is bracket-shaped.

4. The arthroscopic joint space opening device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detachable bone screw (32) includes a screw body (321) and a connector (322). The connector (322) is located at the end of the connecting arm (31), and the screw body (321) is detachably connected to the connecting arm (31) through the connector (322).

5. The arthroscopic joint space opening device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The end of the cavity inside the nail body (321) is provided with a snap-fit ​​piece (3221), and the snap-fit ​​piece (3221) has a slot that is compatible with the T-shaped snap-fit ​​piece (322).