Adjustable Loop Fixation Device for Pre-Sutured Tendon Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspensory fixation devices are not ideal for attaching to pre-sutured tendons, as they often have continuous or adjustable closed loops that do not accommodate the pre-sutured tendon effectively, necessitating a device that can form an adjustable loop around the tendon.
Innovation Solution
A fixation device with a button and suture limbs forming an adjustable loop, where a mass of suture material or protuberance is used to create a collapsible mechanism that can be secured around the tendon, allowing for adjustment and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a continuous closed loop or adjustable closed loop suspensory fixation device is used, then the device can provide suspensory fixation, but it cannot effectively accommodate a pre-sutured tendon
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device employs a dynamic adjustable loop mechanism that can change its configuration from a collapsed state during insertion to an expanded state for securing the tendon. The loop's ability to dynamically adjust its size and shape allows it to accommodate the pre-sutured tendon effectively while maintaining ease of operation during the surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device is segmented into distinct functional components: a button portion for insertion, a loop portion for accommodating the tendon, and a suture mechanism for adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, with the loop portion specifically designed to interface with the pre-sutured tendon while the other portions handle insertion and fixation tasks.
2Productivity
If a pre-sutured tendon is used, then patient morbidity is reduced and OR time is shortened, but the surgeon must attach a suspensory fixation device to the pre-sutured tendon which is difficult with existing devices
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device incorporates self-adjusting features where the loop automatically adapts to the tendon diameter and the suture mechanism self-locks once the tendon is secured. This self-service capability reduces the complexity of the attachment process, allowing surgeons to quickly attach the fixation device to the pre-sutured tendon without requiring complex manipulation or additional surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses an intermediary suture mechanism that connects the loop portion to the button portion, allowing for easy adjustment and secure attachment to the pre-sutured tendon. This intermediary element facilitates the attachment process by providing a simple interface that can be quickly manipulated and secured, maintaining the productivity benefits of using pre-sutured tendons.
3Reliability
If a mass of suture material or protuberance is formed in the first limb, then the adjustable loop can be secured around the tendon, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mass of suture material or protuberance is pre-formed on the first limb before the device is inserted into the patient's body. This preliminary action ensures that the securing mechanism is already prepared and positioned correctly, eliminating the need for complex intraoperative manipulation. The pre-formed structure provides reliable secure attachment while minimizing the perceived complexity during the surgical procedure, as the complex feature is already in place before insertion.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of repairing an ACL using a fixation device and a pre-sutured tendon. The fixation device includes a button having first and second inner apertures extending therethrough and a length of suture having a first limb connected to a second limb. The first and second limbs both extend through the first inner aperture, forming an adjustable loop in the length of suture extending from the button. A mass of suture material or a protuberance is formed in a first terminal end of the first limb extending proximally from the button. The mass of suture material and the protuberance have a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the first inner aperture. Pulling the second limb proximally from the button decreases the size of the adjustable loop.