Cannula Penetrator System for Deep Microfractures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating microfractures in subchondral bone are limited by their inability to achieve a sufficient depth-to-width ratio, which restricts the effectiveness of treatments for cartilage defects.
Innovation Solution
The development of a cannula and penetrator system that allows for the creation of microfractures with a greater depth-to-width ratio, featuring a cannula with a channel and a penetrator that can be moved from a retracted to an extended position without rotation, enabling microfractures of specific dimensions to be formed in subchondral bone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If existing microfracture methods are used, then the treatment can be performed with simple apparatus, but the depth-to-width ratio of microfractures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The penetrator is nested within the cannula, with the penetrator's distal end extending through the cannula's wall. This nested configuration allows the penetrator to achieve greater depth while the cannula provides guidance and stability, resolving the contradiction between achieving high depth-to-width ratio and maintaining device simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfracture apparatus is segmented into two functional components: the cannula for guidance and stabilization, and the penetrator for depth achievement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the cannula for ease of operation and the penetrator for penetration depth - thereby achieving high manufacturing precision without excessive overall complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If penetrator rotation is allowed during insertion, then the insertion process is simpler, but the microfracture depth and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula is positioned and stabilized at the target site before the penetrator is inserted. This preliminary positioning action ensures that the penetrator follows a predetermined path, eliminating the need for rotation during insertion while maintaining precision and depth control.
Solution Approach 2:
The cannula acts as an intermediary guide that constrains the penetrator's motion. By providing a physical guide structure, the cannula mediates between the simplicity of straight insertion and the precision of controlled depth, allowing the penetrator to be inserted without rotation while achieving accurate microfracture formation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of apparatuses and methods for microfracture (e.g., forming a plurality of microfractures in a bone to encourage cartilage regeneration).