Constrained Glenoid Implant Geometry for Shoulder Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopaedic implant systems struggle to effectively restore joint functionality by addressing bone defects and joint instability due to bone erosion or loss, particularly in the glenoid bone, without causing further complications such as dislocation and impingement.
Innovation Solution
The development of orthopaedic implants with non-spherical articular surfaces and variable radii of curvature, including a superior constraint, which are secured using anchor members to limit movement and enhance joint stability, allowing for precise positioning and rotation to optimize joint kinematics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spherical articular surfaces are used in orthopaedic implants, then the implant design is simpler, but the joint stability and constraint against dislocation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies non-spherical curvature to the articular surface of the glenoid implant, creating variable radii of curvature that provide both constraint and stability. The superior constraint surface has a first radius of curvature while the inferior surface has a second radius of curvature, allowing the implant to constrain humeral movement while maintaining joint stability and reducing dislocation risk.
2Reliability
If anchor members are added to secure the implant to bone, then the implant fixation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the glenoid implant body with integrated anchor members into a single unified component. The anchor members are formed as part of the implant structure itself, extending from the posterior surface to engage the glenoid bone, thereby improving fixation while reducing the total number of separate components and simplifying the overall device.
3Reliability
If the superior lip is positioned lateral to the inferior lip, then superior constraint is established to limit humeral movement, but the implant geometry becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of the superior and inferior lips, with the superior lip extending more laterally than the inferior lip. This asymmetric geometry creates a superior constraint that limits superior movement of the humeral implant while maintaining natural shoulder kinematics, effectively preventing dislocation without requiring additional complex components.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to orthopaedic implants and methods for restoring functionality to a bone and/or joint. The implants disclosed herein may be dimensioned and/or positioned relative to a bone to establish a constraint. The implants may include an articular surface establishing the constraint. The articular surface may have different radii of curvature to establish a non-spherical contour.