Combined Intramedullary Extramedullary Bone Stabilization for Bunion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical procedures for bunion and hallux valgus corrections often fail to accurately address multi-planar and rotational deformities, leading to less than desirable outcomes due to imprecise alignment and fixation of bone segments, particularly in procedures like Lapidus Bunionectomy which requires a lengthy non-weight bearing postoperative period.
Innovation Solution
A combined intramedullary and extramedullary stabilization and alignment system that uses a cannulated implant device with a K-wire guide, allowing for precise alignment and micro-adjustments of the metatarsal head, enabling lateral and rotational adjustments to accurately center the metatarsal head over the sesamoid and reduce the intermetatarsal angle, facilitated by a drill guide and template for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional surgical procedures are used for bunion and hallux valgus corrections, then the surgical procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the alignment precision of bone segments is insufficient and cannot accurately address multi-planar and rotational deformities
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization system is divided into multiple functional components: an intramedullary portion for internal bone support, an extramedullary portion for external stabilization, a wire aperture system for K-wire guidance, and multiple fastener apertures for secure fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while achieving high overall alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire aperture serves as an intermediary element that receives and guides a K-wire, which in turn guides the intramedullary portion of the implant. This intermediary mechanism enables precise alignment and micro-adjustments of the metatarsal head position, allowing the surgeon to accurately center the metatarsal head over the sesamoid and control rotational deformities.
2Loss of time
If traditional fixation methods are used, then the surgical procedure is simple to perform, but the postoperative recovery period is lengthy requiring non-weight bearing for four to six weeks
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges intramedullary and extramedullary stabilization mechanisms into a single integrated implant. The intramedullary portion provides internal support within the bone canal, while the extramedullary portion provides external stabilization on the bone surface. This combination creates highly reliable fixation that allows immediate weight-bearing, eliminating the need for lengthy non-weight bearing periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant is designed with pre-configured fastener apertures and wire apertures that allow for precise pre-planning and execution of the osteotomy and fixation. The drill guide with template further enables preliminary positioning and alignment before final fixation, ensuring optimal bone-to-implant contact and stability from the outset, which accelerates healing.
3Ease of operation
If simple alignment tools are used, then the surgical procedure is easier to perform, but the ability to make micro-adjustments post-attachment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wire aperture and K-wire system provide dynamic adjustability during the surgical procedure. After the intramedullary portion is inserted, the surgeon can manipulate the K-wire through the wire aperture to make real-time micro-adjustments to the position and rotation of the metatarsal head. This dynamic capability allows for precise alignment optimization while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for adjustment of multiple parameters including the position of the metatarsal head, the rotation angle to correct deformity, and the depth of implant insertion. The wire aperture mechanism enables continuous parameter adjustment during surgery, allowing the surgeon to optimize alignment precision without complicating the overall surgical procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a combined intramedullary and extramedullary bone stabilization and alignment system, which includes both methods and apparatuses for the alignment and stabilization of a first bone or piece of bone to a second bone or piece of bone. Embodiments of the system may include an implant device which has an elongated framework within the intramedullary portion and an extramedullary portion which are cannulated. The cannulated aspect of the framework includes a wire aperture through both the intramedullary portion and the extramedullary portion.