Adjustable Bone Anchor Assembly for Flexible Fixation Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bone fixation implants require multiple components with intricate mating features, leading to increased costs and less desirable healing outcomes, and often necessitate highly technical surgical procedures for limited adjustability.
Innovation Solution
A bone fixation device comprising a first and second bone anchor, each with threadable or rotatable connections, and a connector element that allows for adjustable alignment and secure fixation of bones with fewer components, enabling less invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bone fixation implants use generic screws and wires to create rigid fusion, then bone fixation is achieved, but flexibility and adjustability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bone fixation device incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the distal bone anchor to be repositioned relative to the proximal bone anchor along the longitudinal axis. This enables the device to transition from a fixed rigid state during initial implantation to an adjustable state intraoperatively, allowing surgeons to optimize bone alignment and fusion conditions while maintaining structural stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components with intricate mating features are used, then customization is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bone fixation device employs a universal design where the proximal and distal bone anchors can function in multiple configurations. The anchors feature standardized interfaces that allow them to be used together in various combinations and orientations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components. This multi-functional approach provides customization capability while reducing overall device complexity and component count.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional implants require highly technical surgical procedures, then specific flexibility is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bone fixation device is designed with pre-configured features that simplify the surgical procedure. The proximal and distal bone anchors are manufactured with integrated threading and positioning features that guide their insertion and alignment. This preliminary preparation of the device components allows for easier intraoperative adjustment and reduces the need for highly technical surgical maneuvers, making the procedure more accessible while maintaining flexibility.
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
Facilitates flexible bone alignment with improved healing outcomes through adjustable positioning and reduced surgical complexity, accommodating various bone sizes and patient anatomies.
Implementation Method 1
The ball screw is configured to be rotatably seated within the socket portion
Implementation Method 2
The first bone anchor includes a ball screw, and the second bone anchor includes a socket portion operatively connected to the ball screw
Implementation Method 3
applying a compression force to the first bone and second bone to lock the connector element in a fixed position
Data Source
AI summary
A bone fixation device configured to fix one or more bone segments is provided.