Cable-Anchored Orthopedic Fixation for Adjustable Tension

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing anchor screws and orthopedic plates held in place by screws are often inadequate for certain applications, and there is a need for minimally invasive anchoring solutions that allow adjustable tension or torque.

Innovation Solution

An anchoring apparatus comprising a primary anchor with variable length and a secondary anchor, which can be used with or without support plates, allowing for adjustable tension or torque application through a cable system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If anchor screws or orthopedic plates held in place by anchor screws are used, then anchoring function is provided, but the solution is not satisfactory in certain applications and causes tissue damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanchoring functionVSAvoidtissue damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a primary anchor that interfaces with bone tissue, a secondary anchor that secures the cable, and a cable that provides the anchoring force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall tissue damage compared to traditional screw-plate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A cable serves as an intermediary element between the primary and secondary anchors, transmitting the anchoring force through soft tissue without requiring direct rigid fixation. This intermediary approach allows for more flexible and less invasive tissue interaction compared to traditional rigid screw-plate constructs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional anchor screws are used, then anchoring is achieved, but adjustable tension or torque cannot be applied

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanchoring functionVSAvoidadjustable tension

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring apparatus incorporates a dynamic cable system that allows for adjustable tension and torque application. The cable can be tensioned to desired levels and maintained at those levels, providing adaptability that rigid anchor screws cannot achieve. This dynamic system enables customization of anchoring forces based on specific application requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If anchor screws alone are used, then anchoring is provided, but flexibility in employment is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanchoring functionVSAvoidflexibility in employment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring apparatus is designed with universal applicability across different orthopedic applications. The primary anchor can be employed in various bone structures, the cable system can accommodate different tension requirements, and the secondary anchor provides versatile securing options. This multi-functionality allows the same basic apparatus to address diverse anchoring needs that traditional specialized screws cannot fulfill.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260013850A1Anchoring Apparatus

Publication Date: 2026.01.15 DODSON MARK A

AI summary

This invention provides an anchoring apparatus comprising a primary anchor and a secondary anchor. The primary anchor defines a primary bore, a tail section, and a head section. The head section defines a pair of substantially parallel bores extending through the head section of the primary anchor. The secondary anchor is sized and configured to mate with the head section of the primary anchor at a head section opening of the primary bore.