Adjustable Suture Knot Sliding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical knots, especially those used in arthroscopic procedures, lack the ability to be easily unlocked and adjusted, which can complicate surgical procedures and tissue attachment to bone.
Innovation Solution
A knot design incorporating a slip knot, half hitch knot, and adjustable loops that allow for the knot to be progressively tightened, locked, unlocked, and loosened, enabling flexible tension adjustment and secure attachment of soft tissue to bone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking knot is used to secure sutures, then the knot provides stable and secure attachment, but the knot cannot be unlocked without untying it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms a static locking knot into a dynamic adjustable knot by incorporating a sliding mechanism within the knot structure. The sliding component allows the knot to transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling the surgeon to adjust tension and reposition the knot along the suture without untying and retying it.
Solution Approach 2:
The knot is divided into functional segments: a locking portion that provides secure attachment, a sliding portion that enables adjustment, and a tensioning portion that maintains force. This segmentation allows independent control of locking and adjusting functions within the same knot structure.
2Ease of operation
If a sliding knot is used to provide adjustability, then the knot can be unlocked and repositioned, but it requires delivery down a cannula and may incorporate additional tension devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sliding mechanism, locking function, and tensioning capability into a single integrated knot structure formed from the suture material itself. This eliminates the need for separate tension devices or complex delivery systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The knot structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides secure locking, enables sliding adjustment, and maintains tension through its inherent friction-based mechanics. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single suture-based structure without requiring additional components.
3Reliability
If a static knot is used in open surgical settings, then the knot provides reliable attachment, but it lacks the ability to be adjusted or unlocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustability to the traditionally static surgical knot by incorporating a sliding mechanism that allows the knot to be repositioned along the suture. This enables the same knot to provide both reliable attachment and flexible adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The knot allows change in the position parameter along the suture and the tension parameter through sliding and locking mechanisms. This enables adjustment of the attachment point and tension level while maintaining secure fixation, providing adaptability without compromising reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Knots and methods of forming knots made of flexible material for use in a surgical environment are described. The knots include one or more ways to unlock at least a portion of the knot.