Bone Plating Sizing Instrument for Periprosthetic Fracture Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In orthopedic procedures, especially for periprosthetic fractures around metal prostheses, there is a challenge in achieving stable fixation due to limited bone availability and interference from existing implants, which complicates the use of traditional bone fixation devices like cables and screws, and bone resorption can render cable fixation ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A modular femoral plating system with a sizing instrument and insertion tool that includes a medial and lateral clamp, a gauge indicator, and a tightening mechanism to accurately measure and secure an attachment clamp to the bone and plate, allowing for stable peri-implant fixation by determining the correct clamp size and torque value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bone fixation devices like cables and screws are used for periprosthetic fractures, then fixation can be achieved, but stable fixation cannot be ensured due to limited bone availability and interference from existing implants
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into modular components including a plate with multiple holes, various sized clamps (first clamp, second clamp), and selectable screws. This segmentation allows surgeons to customize the configuration based on the specific fracture pattern and available bone, thereby achieving reliable fixation despite limited bone availability and implant interference
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the fixation system have specialized functions: the plate provides structural support, clamps provide localized compression at fracture sites, and screws provide anchorage. The ability to select specific clamp sizes and screw positions allows optimization of fixation quality at each local site, improving overall reliability in challenging periprosthetic fracture scenarios
2Reliability
If cable fixation is used for periprosthetic fractures, then fixation can be applied, but effectiveness is lost due to bone resorption
Solution Approach 1:
The plate and clamp system provides immediate rigid stabilization upon installation, preventing micromotion that would otherwise stimulate bone resorption. By establishing stable fixation from the outset, the system prevents the progressive bone loss that renders cable fixation ineffective over time
Solution Approach 2:
The clamps are designed with curved surfaces that conform to the cylindrical geometry of the bone and plate, creating optimal contact surfaces for compression and stabilization. This curved design enhances the mechanical advantage and durability of the fixation compared to linear cable systems
3Reliability
If a modular plating system is used to provide stable fixation, then fixation options are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, acts as an anchor for clamps and screws, and offers a platform for customizable fixation configurations. The clamps similarly serve multiple purposes including compression, stabilization, and adaptation to different bone diameters. This multi-functionality reduces the need for entirely separate devices, managing complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of critical parameters such as clamp size, screw length, and hole selection based on patient-specific anatomy and fracture characteristics. This parametric customization enables reliable fixation across diverse clinical scenarios without requiring entirely different device designs for each case
4Measurement precision
If precise clamp sizing is performed using the measuring instrument, then accurate measurement is achieved, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring instrument features a nested structure where the first clamp and second clamp are positioned on opposite sides of the bone with measurement scales aligned for direct comparison. This nested arrangement allows simultaneous measurement of both clamp positions relative to the bone and plate, achieving precise sizing without requiring multiple separate measurement steps or complex calculation 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
The solution enables precise sizing and secure attachment of the clamp, reducing bone fracture and providing stable fixation options for challenging periprosthetic fractures, even in areas with limited bone availability, by ensuring accurate measurement and torque application.
Implementation Method 1
a tightening knob (330) threaded onto the thread portion (343) of the medial gauge (340)
Implementation Method 2
a threaded portion (343) configured to receive the tightening knob (330)
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring instrument configured to measure a bone and a plate to determine the size of an attachment clamp, including: a medial clamp configured to engage a medial portion of the bone; a medial gauge connected to the medial clamp, the medial gauge including: a key along a portion of the medial gauge adjacent the medial clamp; a gauge indicator configured to indicate the size of attachment clamp; and a threaded portion; a lateral clamp configured to engage a plate on the bone, where the lateral clamp has a hollow portion with a channel, wherein the gauge indicator is positioned in the hollow portion and wherein the channel is configured to engage the key of the gauge indicator to prevent the lateral clamp from rotating about the gauge indicator; and a tightening knob threaded onto the thread portion of the of the medial gauge, wherein one end of the tightening knob indicates on the gauge indicator the size of the attachment clamp.