Bone Implant Fixation Structure for Uniform Biomaterial Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices fail to effectively control the interface between injectable fluidic biomaterials and biostable implants, leading to implant failure and fracture collapse, especially in bone repair and fixation, resulting in prolonged disability.
Innovation Solution
A device with a unitary body featuring a proximal, central, and distal region, including an internal channel, compressible wings, and an expandable body, which allows for uniform distribution and delivery of biomaterials to the bone site, secured by threads and expandable mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional devices are used for biomaterial injection, then the injection process can be completed, but the interface between injectable fluidic biomaterials and biostable implants cannot be adequately controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into three distinct regions: a proximal region with compressible wings for initial insertion and sealing, a central region with an expandable body for controlled expansion against the implant, and a distal region with internal threads for secure fixation. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally, achieving reliable interface control through coordinated action of specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements including compressible wings that can deform during insertion, an expandable body that radially expands to press against the implant surface, and threaded engagement mechanisms that convert rotational motion into axial fixation. These dynamic features enable the device to adapt to varying implant geometries and achieve reliable interface control under different loading conditions.
2Manufacturing precision
If biomaterial is injected without controlled distribution, then injection can be performed quickly, but uniform distribution and delivery of biomaterial to the bone cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The device creates localized high-pressure zones at the interface between the expandable body and the implant surface, ensuring concentrated biomaterial delivery exactly where needed. The expandable body's radial expansion generates controlled pressure distribution across the implant-bone interface, achieving uniform biomaterial infiltration without requiring prolonged injection times.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a linear injection approach to a radial expansion mechanism, distributing biomaterial in three dimensions across the implant surface. The expandable body's radial expansion creates multiple delivery points simultaneously, achieving uniform distribution across the entire interface area rather than sequential point-by-point injection.
3Strength
If expandable body is used for radial expansion, then secure fixation to bone can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple fixation mechanisms into a single integrated structure: the compressible wings provide initial mechanical engagement, the expandable body creates radial compression against the implant surface, and the internal threads enable threaded fixation. This merging of functions into one device achieves strong fixation without requiring multiple separate components or procedures.
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
Ensures robust adherence and uniform distribution of biomaterials, enhancing bone repair and implant fixation, reducing implant failure and fracture collapse.
Implementation Method 1
the central region includes an expandable body configured to radially expand
Implementation Method 2
the proximal region includes an opening to the internal channel and a plurality of circumferentially disposed and compressible wings
Data Source
AI summary
The devices, systems, and methods herein described provide uniform biomaterial delivery to produce robust adhesion between an implant (e.g., an implantable screw) and a bone tissue. Furthermore, the devices, systems, and methods of the disclosure overcome challenges associated with the repair of weak or deficient bone and augmentation using injected biomaterials.