Bone Alignment Device with Ratchet Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for hallux valgus, or bunions, caused by first tarsometatarsal joint hypermobility are not consistently repeatable and adaptable to various clinical situations, leading to potential recurrence of the deformity.
Innovation Solution
A bone displacement system comprising an anchoring portion, a tool engaging portion, a compression-distraction mechanism, a lateral body, and a distal body, which allows for adjustable alignment and stabilization of the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform bones through wire connections and a ratchet mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bone cutting and fixation methods are used, then the procedure can be performed with simple tools, but the treatment is not consistently repeatable and adaptable to various clinical situations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional modules: a body portion with aperture for wire insertion, a compression-distraction mechanism with ratchet teeth, and a bone contact surface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall adaptability to different clinical scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression-distraction mechanism incorporates a ratchet system that allows dynamic adjustment of bone alignment during the procedure. The movable bone contact surface can be positioned at different locations along the device body to accommodate varying anatomical configurations and clinical requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If bone alignment is adjusted during surgery, then precise bone realignment is achieved, but the procedure requires complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism provides self-locking functionality that maintains bone alignment without requiring continuous active adjustment. Once the desired alignment is achieved, the ratchet teeth engage with the rack to hold the position automatically, reducing the need for complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic or computerized alignment systems with a purely mechanical ratchet-and-rack adjustment mechanism. This mechanical system provides sufficient precision for bone alignment while maintaining simplicity in operation and reducing device complexity.
3Reliability
If wires are used to connect the device to bones, then the device can be securely anchored, but the insertion process becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device body includes a pre-formed aperture specifically designed for wire insertion. This preliminary preparation of the anchoring structure allows for faster and more reliable wire passage compared to creating the anchoring path during the procedure, thereby reducing insertion time while maintaining secure anchoring.
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
The system effectively realigns and stabilizes the bones, reducing the valgus angle and preventing bunion recurrence by allowing precise adjustment and fixation of the bone alignment.
Implementation Method 1
The compression-distraction mechanism is connected to the lateral body by a ratchet
Implementation Method 2
The compression-distraction mechanism is configured to move the anchoring portion relative to the distal body
Data Source
AI summary
A bone displacement system includes an anchoring portion, a tool engaging portion, a compression distraction mechanism, a lateral body and a distal body. The anchoring portion has an aperture for receiving a wire to connect the anchoring portion to a proximal bone. The tool engaging portion is connected to the anchoring portion and is configured to connect a tool thereto. The compression-distraction mechanism is connected to the anchoring portion. The lateral body is connected to the compression-distraction mechanism by a ratchet. The lateral body has a downwardly depending portion for contacting a lateral bone. The distal body is connected to the compression-distraction mechanism. The distal body has an aperture for receiving a wire to connect the distal body to a distal bone. The compression-distraction mechanism is configured to move the anchoring portion relative to the distal body.