Adjustable Loop Surgical Construct with Sliding Knot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical reconstruction methods for joints and ligaments, such as the acromioclavicular joint and cruciate ligaments, lack ease of adjustable loop fixation and require complex constructs, which can complicate the reconstruction process.
Innovation Solution
A surgical construct comprising a single flexible strand with interlocked adjustable loops and a sliding knot that allows for independent adjustment of the loops, eliminating the need for splices and providing a simplified, secure fixation mechanism using a fixation device like a button.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional surgical reconstruction methods are used, then tissue repair can be achieved, but the construct complexity increases and adjustable loop fixation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The suture tape is divided into multiple segments with individual adjustable loops, each capable of independent adjustment. This segmentation allows surgeons to adjust each loop separately for precise tissue fixation while maintaining overall construct simplicity through the use of a single continuous suture tape.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding knot mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of loop sizes after implantation. The free ends can slide through the sliding knot to independently adjust each loop's circumference, providing post-operative adaptability without requiring complex fixation mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate sutures are used to achieve adjustable loops, then individual adjustment is possible, but the quantity of surgical materials increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustable loops are integrated into a single continuous suture tape rather than using separate sutures. This merging reduces the quantity of surgical materials while maintaining the ability to individually adjust each loop through the sliding knot mechanism, simplifying both material management and surgical procedure.
3Device complexity
If spliced suture construction is used, then complex fixation patterns can be achieved, but the reliability of the construct decreases due to potential splice failure points
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable loops and sliding knot mechanism are pre-configured into the suture tape during manufacturing, eliminating the need for intraoperative splicing. This preliminary configuration ensures continuous fiber integrity throughout the construct, removing potential splice failure points while maintaining complex fixation patterns through the designed loop geometry.
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
This solution simplifies reconstructive surgery by enabling easy adjustment and secure fixation of tissues with minimal friction, reducing the complexity of the reconstruction process and providing strong, double-strand strength with a single suture tape, suitable for various tissue repairs including joint and bone reconstructions.
Implementation Method 1
The sliding knot is configured to slidably receive the first and second free ends
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to methods of surgical tissue reconstruction, such as for joint or ligament repair, and associated surgical constructs.