Adjustable Achilles Anchor with Nested Screw Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Standard insertional Achilles reconstruction procedures lack adjustability and a secure fit, as the tension of the construct cannot be adjusted after inserting the inferior row of anchors, limiting the flexibility and effectiveness of the reconstruction.

Innovation Solution

A kit and method using adjustable anchor assemblies with inner and outer members that translate axially within a lumen in response to rotation, allowing for adjustable tension and secure positioning of suture tapes relative to the anchor assemblies, and a collagen implant to engage the Achilles tendon.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard knotless suture anchors are used to reattach the Achilles to the calcaneus, then the reconstruction can be completed with a secure anchor, but the tension of the construct cannot be adjusted after inserting the inferior row of anchors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetension adjustabilityVSAvoidanchor assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor assembly employs a nested structure where an inner member is positioned within an outer member. The inner member can be rotated relative to the outer member to adjust the tension on the suture tape, allowing for post-insertion tension adjustment while maintaining a compact, integrated device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor assembly transitions from a static fixed-tension design to a dynamic adjustable-tension design. The inner and outer members are configured to allow relative rotation, enabling the surgeon to adjust the tension on the suture tape after the anchor is inserted into the bone, thereby achieving optimal tensioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the inferior row of anchors is inserted to secure the construct, then the Achilles tendon is reattached to the calcaneus, but no further tension adjustment is possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidtension adjustment capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The nested inner and outer members allow the tension adjustment mechanism to be integrated within the anchor assembly itself. After insertion, the inner member can be rotated within the outer member to adjust tension without requiring removal or additional components, maintaining both secure attachment and adjustability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor assembly is designed to be self-adjusting through the rotation of the inner member relative to the outer member. The structure itself provides the adjustment mechanism, eliminating the need for separate tensioning devices or complex additional steps after anchor insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If four knotless suture anchors are used with suture tape, then the Achilles can be reattached, but the construct lacks flexibility in tension adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconstruct flexibilityVSAvoiddevice simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By nesting the adjustment mechanism within the anchor assembly, the patent achieves enhanced construct flexibility without significantly complicating the manufacturing process. The inner and outer members form an integrated unit that can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor assembly serves multiple functions: it anchors the suture tape to the bone and simultaneously provides tension adjustment capability. This multi-functionality increases construct flexibility while maintaining device simplicity through integration of functions into a single assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables greater adjustability and a secure fit of the construct, allowing for precise tension adjustment and improved reconstruction of the Achilles tendon, enhancing the surgical procedure's effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

The inner member is configured to axially translate within a lumen of the outer member in response to rotation of the inner member relative to the outer member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS20220346938A1Adjustable insertional achilles reconstruction with collagen implant augmentation

Publication Date: 2022.11.03 SMITH & NEPHEW INC

AI summary

A kit and method for reconstructing an Achilles tendon may include a first anchor member, a first flexible member configured to engage the first anchor member, a second anchor member, a second flexible member configured to engage the second anchor member, a first adjustable anchor assembly including a first outer member and a first inner member configured to axially translate within a first lumen of the first outer member in response to rotation of the first inner member relative to the first outer member, a second adjustable anchor assembly include a second outer member and a second inner member configured to axially translate within a second lumen of the second outer member in response to rotation of the second inner member relative to the second outer member, and a collagen implant configured to engage a surface of the Achilles tendon.