Bone Resection Closure with Dual Alignment Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical alignment devices for bone fixation procedures, such as sternum fixation, require complex multi-person operations to align and close bone resections, which can be time-consuming and inefficient, especially in orthopedic procedures where precise alignment of bone portions is critical for healing.
Innovation Solution
A dual alignment guide system with retention mechanisms and pivotably coupled gripping elements that allow for easy one-person, one-handed closure of bone resections by coupling to plates affixed to the bone, facilitating alignment and fixation of bone plates through a ratchet mechanism and protrusions for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex multi-person alignment devices are used for bone fixation, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is divided into separate modular components including alignment guides, retention mechanisms, and gripping elements that can be independently assembled and adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall alignment precision without requiring a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-aligning features through geometric constraints and self-retaining mechanisms that automatically maintain precise alignment without requiring complex external adjustment systems or multiple operators. The gripping elements and retention mechanisms are designed to self-adjust and self-lock, reducing operational complexity while preserving alignment accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If complex multi-person alignment devices are used for bone fixation, then alignment precision is improved, but procedural time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment guides and retention mechanisms are pre-configured with predetermined geometric relationships and pre-set adjustment ranges that allow for rapid deployment. Critical alignment features are pre-positioned on the bone surface, eliminating the need for time-consuming measurements and adjustments during the surgical procedure while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow for quick, tool-free modifications during the procedure. The gripping elements and retention mechanisms can be rapidly adjusted and locked into position, enabling the surgical team to adapt to anatomical variations without losing time or compromising alignment precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional alignment devices requiring multiple persons are used, then operational stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is designed with self-stabilizing features including self-locking retention mechanisms and self-adjusting gripping elements that maintain operational stability without requiring multiple operators. The geometric constraints and friction-based retention systems automatically maintain device position and alignment, allowing a single operator to control the entire alignment process while preserving stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates curved and ergonomic surfaces that conform to the natural contours of bone structures, improving ease of positioning and operation. The rounded gripping elements and contoured alignment guides facilitate intuitive manipulation by a single operator while maintaining stable contact with the bone surface throughout the procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment guide system is disclosed that includes a first alignment guide and a second alignment guide. The first and second alignment guides are adapted to couple to plates affixed to a bone or other body part and guide the plates together to close a resection or opening in the bone or other body part. The alignment guide system allows for an easy one person closure of the resection or opening in the bone or other body part.