Bent Dip Fusion Screw for Angled Finger Joint 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, failing to replicate 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 anchoring in a joint and subsequent adjustment to a natural bent position using a K-wire or similar guide structure, enabling fusion in a more anatomically correct configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a straight screw is used for joint fusion, then the surgical procedure is simple, but the joint cannot be positioned in its natural bent configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The screw is divided into three distinct sections: a first threaded section for proximal bone engagement, a bendable middle section that can be angled to match the joint's natural configuration, and a second threaded section for distal bone engagement. This segmentation allows the screw to accommodate bent joint positions while maintaining surgical simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The middle section of the screw is designed to be bendable, allowing it to be dynamically adjusted during surgery to match the specific angle required by the patient's joint anatomy. This dynamic adaptability enables the screw to conform to natural bent joint configurations rather than forcing a straight alignment.
2Ease of manufacture
If the joint is fused in a straight position, then the surgical technique is straightforward, but bone purchase is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the screw have different properties: the first and second threaded sections provide rigid bone anchorage with optimized thread geometry for strong engagement, while the middle section provides flexibility for angular adjustment. This local differentiation of properties enables both straightforward surgery and strong bone purchase in the bent position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a bent position fusion is achieved, then natural joint configuration is restored, but the surgical process becomes technically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The screw's middle section is designed to be easily bent by the surgeon during the procedure using simple manual manipulation or basic bending tools. This self-service capability allows the screw to be customized to the required angle without requiring complex pre-bending equipment or specialized surgical techniques, thereby reducing overall surgical complexity while maintaining angle customization capability.
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
Enables fusion of finger joints in a bent position, improving bone alignment and grip functionality post-procedure, while allowing for customizable angles to accommodate individual joint needs.
Implementation Method 1
a middle bendable section. The device may further include a channel or cannula therethrough to receive a support and guide structure
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods are disclosed for the fusion of joints (particularly finger joints or toe joints) in a bent (or angled) position. In certain embodiments, the device is pre-bent and inserted into the joint in its pre-bent configuration. Alternatively, the device may be configured to have a first position wherein it is bent and a second position wherein it is straight. In that case, the device is preferably straightened by inserting a K-wire through a cannula in the device, and the device can be inserted into the joint in its straight position. Once inserted, the device is permitted to move to its bent position, which moves the joint to a bent position. In one embodiment the device moves to its bent position when the K-wire is removed.