Adjustable Loop Joint Repair With Low-Bulk Cortical Button Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint repair methods often result in palpable or bulky fixation constructs, conspicuous scarring, and excessive bone tissue removal, particularly in smaller and fragile bones, while failing to withstand physiological loading.
Innovation Solution
The use of adjustable loop constructs with flexible members and cortical button anchors that minimize bone tissue removal, reduce palpability, and provide flexibility to withstand joint loading, using adjustable loops and cortical button anchors to secure bones in a repaired configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixation constructs are used to repair the joint, then the bones are securely fixed in anatomical position, but visible scarring and bulky fixation constructs occur on the superior aspect of the clavicle
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the problematic knots and bulky anchors from the superior aspect of the clavicle by routing the fixation construct through the coracoid process and behind the clavicle, thereby removing the harmful visible and palpable components while maintaining fixation stability
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation construct is routed through a different spatial dimension by passing through the coracoid process and behind the clavicle rather than on top, moving the fixation elements from a superior location to an inferior and posterior location that is not visible or palpable from the front
2Reliability
If fixation constructs are placed through the coracoid process to achieve stable repair, then joint stability is improved, but the coracoid process (a smaller and fragile bone) is damaged due to tissue removal
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a flexible suture or ribbon construct that can be passed through the coracoid process without requiring large bone tunnels or extensive tissue removal, thereby minimizing damage to the fragile coracoid bone while maintaining repair stability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the fixation construct by using a flexible, adjustable-length suture or ribbon that can accommodate the small size of the coracoid process, allowing passage through minimal bone tissue while providing sufficient strength for joint repair
3Ease of operation
If the repair construct is made flexible to allow joint movement, then joint functionality is restored, but the construct may elongate under physiological loading over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the suture or ribbon can be tensioned and locked at optimal lengths, allowing the construct to be rigid when needed for stability while permitting flexibility for joint movement, and can be adjusted if elongation occurs over time
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the fixation construct by using materials with specific elastic properties and adjustable tensioning mechanisms that allow optimization between flexibility for movement and resistance to elongation under physiological loading
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments and methods for improved joint repair are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments may include an adjustable loop construct with at least one anchor. At least some of the embodiments may include an all-suture anchor. At least some of the embodiments may include an adjustable loop construct with a locking passage. Embodiments may implement a method that reduces or avoids material removal from the bones of the joint. Embodiments may include means to reduce elongation of the repair over time.