Bendable Joint Fusion Device for Angled Bone Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fusing finger joints, such as k-wire fusion and screw insertion, often result in unnatural straight alignment, which is not representative of the joint's natural bent position, leading to inadequate bone purchase and limited ability to angle the joint during fusion procedures.
Innovation Solution
A device with a bendable section that can be pre-bent to various angles, allowing for secure threading into the joint and subsequent adjustment to a natural bent position using a support structure, enabling fusion of joints in a more anatomically correct configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a screw or k-wire is used to fuse the joint in a straight position, then the fusion procedure is simple and straightforward, but the joint alignment becomes unnatural and bone purchase is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device is segmented into multiple sections including a first section with threading for bone engagement, a middle bendable section for angulation, and a second section for additional engagement. This segmentation allows the device to be inserted simply while achieving precise angled alignment, resolving the contradiction between procedural simplicity and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The middle section of the device is designed to be bendable, allowing it to dynamically change from a straight insertion configuration to an angled final position. This dynamic property enables the surgeon to insert the device straightforwardly then bend it to the desired angle, combining ease of operation with precise alignment capability.
2Device complexity
If the joint is fused in a straight position using existing methods, then the surgical technique is less demanding, but the ability to achieve natural bent position is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a bendable middle section that changes the angular parameter of the fusion. This allows the device to maintain relatively simple construction while providing versatile angulation capabilities to achieve natural bent positions, resolving the contradiction between surgical simplicity and adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If existing fusion methods are used, then the procedure is easier to perform, but bone purchase is poor and joint stability is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device features nested threading where the first and second sections both engage with bone tissue in a nested fashion. This nested engagement structure provides superior bone purchase strength while maintaining ease of insertion, as the threading is integrated into the device structure rather than requiring separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method are disclosed for the fusion of joints (particularly finger joints or toe joints) in a bent (or angled) position. In certain embodiments, a device for the fusion of joints preferably allows for one or more of various angled positions, and the particular angle may differ for different joints. The device is preferably a bendable implant device for fusing together bones or a joint.