Artificial Joint Model for Dynamic Orthopaedic Surgery Training
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopaedic surgery training systems lack realistic simulation of patient positioning and joint movement, particularly for shoulder surgeries, as they often use static synthetic models or cadaveric specimens that fail to replicate the anatomical structures and pathologies needed for effective training, and do not allow for dynamic positioning or realistic traction loads.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an apparatus and an artificial model of a joint that mimics the experience of working with a patient, allowing for adjustable and ergonomic positioning in multiple orientations, such as beach chair and lateral decubitus positions, with a manipulator arm that provides primary and secondary traction, flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and internal/external rotation, and an artificial model with layers of skin, fat, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage for realistic tactile interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static synthetic models or cadaveric specimens are used for training, then the training can be performed outside the operating room, but the realism and ability to simulate patient positioning and joint movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transforming the static training models into a dynamic system. The artificial joint model incorporates movable components including a manipulator arm with multiple degrees of freedom that can simulate physiological joint movements (flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, internal/external rotation). The base plate can be positioned at various angles to replicate different patient positioning scenarios (beach chair position, lateral decubitus position), making the training system adaptable and versatile while maintaining anatomical realism.
2Reliability
If cadaveric specimens are used for training, then anatomical realism is improved, but special handling requirements and limited positioning capability are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Copying principle by creating an artificial joint model that replicates the essential anatomical structures and biomechanical properties of a real joint without using actual cadaveric tissue. The model includes artificial skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, tendon, ligament, cartilage, and bone layers with appropriate material properties. This artificial copy provides anatomical realism for training while eliminating the special handling requirements, biohazard concerns, and positioning limitations associated with cadaveric specimens.
3Ease of operation
If synthetic models are used for training, then ease of handling is improved, but tactile realism and anatomical accuracy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Composite materials principle by constructing the artificial joint model with multiple layers of different materials that replicate the tactile and mechanical properties of real human tissues. The model includes artificial skin with appropriate surface texture, subcutaneous tissue layer, muscle tissue with contractile properties, tendon with high tensile strength, ligament with appropriate elasticity, cartilage with smooth articulating surface, and bone with appropriate hardness. This composite structure provides tactile realism for surgical training while maintaining ease of handling and positioning capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for orthopaedic surgery training is provided, the system comprising an apparatus for supporting at least one artificial model of a human joint releasably mounted to the apparatus. The system may further comprise at least one artificial model of a human joint for mounting to the apparatus, wherein the joint may comprise a shoulder.