Multi-Functional Acetabular Reamer and Trial Instrument
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic procedures for hip replacement surgeries lack an efficient tool that can both ream the acetabulum and trial it with a single instrument, complicating the preparation process and increasing surgical time.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional instrument comprising a handle with reamer and trial coupling features, an acetabular reamer with an outer cutting surface and inner concave surface, and a trial with an outer convex surface, allowing for sequential reaming and trialing of the acetabulum using a single tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate instruments are used for reaming and trialing the acetabulum, then each function can be performed with a specialized tool, but the number of instruments increases and surgical time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reaming function and trialing function into a single multi-functional instrument. The instrument includes a reamer portion with cutting edges for reaming the acetabulum and a trial portion that can be attached to the same handle for trialing the acetabular shell, eliminating the need for separate specialized instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument is designed as a universal tool that can perform multiple functions: reaming the acetabulum to prepare the bone, and subsequently trialing the acetabular shell to ensure proper fit and alignment. This multi-functionality is achieved through interchangeable portions that attach to a common handle
2Manufacturing precision
If separate instruments are used for reaming and trialing, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but procedural complexity and surgical time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reaming function is performed first to prepare the acetabulum, and then the trial portion is attached to perform the trialing function immediately afterward. This sequential arrangement of functions in a single instrument eliminates the time required to switch between separate instruments while maintaining functional optimization
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the reaming and trialing functions into one instrument with a common handle and interchangeable portions, the patent reduces the number of instrument changes and setup times required during surgery, thereby reducing overall surgical time while preserving the specialized capabilities of each function
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument for preparing an acetabulum. The instrument includes a handle having a reamer coupling feature and a trial coupling feature. The instrument further includes an acetabular reamer having an outer cutting surface and an inner concave surface having an apex. The acetabular reamer has a first handle coupling feature located at the apex adapted to couple to the reamer coupling feature of the handle. A trial having an outer convex surface having an apex is also included. The outer convex surface adapted to fit inside the inner concave surface of the acetabular reamer. The trial has a second handle coupling feature located at the apex of the outer convex surface adapted to couple to the trial coupling feature of the handle.