Single-Tunnel ACL Reconstruction Implant with Deployable Bundle Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ACL reconstruction techniques, such as the transtibial method, fail to restore normal rotational knee kinematics and increase operational complexity by requiring multiple tunnels, which can lead to complications and difficulties in anatomic tunnel creation, especially in patients with a small tibial footprint.
Innovation Solution
A single-tunnel, double-bundle ACL reconstruction technique using a femoral and tibial tunnel with a specialized implant that separates and positions two distinct bundles, allowing for a more anatomic reconstruction with reduced technical demands and operative time, without the need for additional tunnel widening or interference fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional transtibial ACL reconstruction is performed, then the procedure is simpler, but it fails to restore normal rotational knee kinematics and only recreates the AM bundle
Solution Approach 1:
The graft is divided into two distinct bundles (AM and PL) that are positioned separately within a single tunnel, allowing reconstruction of both functional components of the ACL while maintaining a simpler single-tunnel approach
Solution Approach 2:
The implant uses movable portions that can be deployed to expand outwardly in different directions, enabling separate positioning of AM and PL bundles in three-dimensional space within the single tunnel, thereby restoring complex rotational kinematics without requiring multiple tunnels
2Reliability
If double bundle reconstruction with multiple tunnels is performed, then rotational stability is improved, but the operational complexity increases and tunnel widening is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple tunnels into a single tunnel by using an implant with movable portions that can deploy bundles in different directions, simplifying the surgical procedure while maintaining rotational stability
Solution Approach 2:
The implant features movable portions that can be deployed after insertion to expand outwardly and position the two bundles separately, allowing the structure to transition from a compact inserted state to an expanded functional state that provides rotational stability without requiring multiple tunnels
3Reliability
If two tibial and two femoral tunnels are created, then both AM and PL bundles can be positioned, but the tibial footprint size becomes prohibitively small in some patients
Solution Approach 1:
The implant utilizes the third dimension (depth and radial expansion within the tunnel) to position two distinct bundles separately, eliminating the need for multiple tunnels and preserving the tibial footprint area while achieving anatomic bundle positioning
4Reliability
If multiple tunnels are used for double bundle reconstruction, then complete ACL function is restored, but operative time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the placement of two bundles into a single tunnel insertion procedure, reducing the number of surgical steps and operative time while still restoring complete ACL function through the deployable movable portions that position both bundles correctly
Data Source
AI summary
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgical repair technique involves the use of a single femoral and tibial tunnel and an implant that separates and positions two distinct bundles. This allows for the surgeon to create a more anatomic reconstruction with a procedure that is less technically demanding, can be performed using a transtibial or anteromedial approach, minimizes tunnel widening, and decreases operative time. The result is a strong fixation option for soft tissue grafts, with circumferential graft compression at the aperture, high pull-out strength, and ease of use. The graft bundles are positioned in a more anatomic orientation through the above noted single femoral and tibial tunnel.