Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis Knotless Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biceps tendon repair methods, such as biceps tenodesis, often require externalizing the tendon and whipping stitches, leading to complications and limited immediate range of motion, with a need for improved attachment techniques that minimize joint issues and allow for early rehabilitation.
Innovation Solution
An arthroscopic method that fixes a single diameter of the biceps tendon in a socket using a knotless fixation device, without externalizing the tendon or using whipstitches, by forming a noosed loop around the tendon and securing it with a cannulated fixation device, allowing for immediate active range of motion and optimal biomechanical characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional biceps tenodesis methods are used with externalizing the tendon and whipstitches, then the tendon can be secured to the humerus, but this leads to complications within the joint and limits immediate range of motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tendon from the surgical field by keeping it internal rather than externalizing it. The arthroscopic technique allows the tendon to be secured within the joint capsule without requiring open exposure, thereby removing the harmful effect of externalization on joint health while maintaining fixation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary arthroscopic portal system that mediates between the surgeon and the tendon. This allows secure tendon fixation without direct external access to the joint, eliminating the need for whipstitches and reducing joint complications while maintaining reliable attachment
2Reliability
If traditional biceps tenodesis with whipstitches is performed, then the tendon can be anchored, but this requires complex stitching procedures and limits early range of motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex whipstitching procedure entirely by using an arthroscopic technique that secures the tendon through a portal without requiring external stitching. This eliminates procedural complexity while maintaining anchoring strength through direct arthroscopic visualization and instrument access
3Ease of operation
If the tendon is externalized for repair, then the surgeon can access the tendon for fixation, but this prevents immediate active range of motion and delays rehabilitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical system of external tendon exposure with an arthroscopic mechanical system that operates through small portals. This allows the surgeon to access and fixate the tendon internally without externalizing it, enabling immediate postoperative range of motion while maintaining ease of surgical operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible arthroscopic instruments and portals that can navigate through the joint capsule to reach the tendon. This flexible access method allows tendon fixation without rigid external exposure, enabling immediate rehabilitation while maintaining surgical accessibility
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques and reconstruction systems for soft tissue surgical repairs. The biceps tenodesis technique of the present invention provides fixation of a single diameter of the biceps tendon in a socket without the need for externalizing the tendon and without the need to pass any suture (or similar material) through any portion of the tendon (i.e., without the need to stitch or whipstitch any area/portion of the tendon). The technique improves the biomechanics of the combined fixation and helps overcome surgeons' concerns about rapid return to ADLs.