Cortical Button Toggle Mechanism for Reliable Tendon Tensioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cortical button devices for biceps tenodesis procedures lack a reliable tensioning mechanism, are bulky, difficult to manipulate after insertion, and limited in suture compatibility, making them unsuitable for various surgical applications.
Innovation Solution
An implant device with a self-cinching unidirectional tensioning mechanism using a toggle and trunnion system, allowing easy manipulation and orientation adjustment, compatible with multiple suture sizes, and featuring a flipping mechanism for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cortical buttons with suture sleeves are used for tensioning, then the device structure is simple, but the tensioning reliability is poor due to friction in the sleeve preventing suture sliding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic toggle mechanism that transitions between open and closed positions to enable controlled tensioning. The toggle allows the suture to slide freely during insertion (open position) and then locks in place after tensioning (closed position), providing reliable tensioning without excessive friction throughout the entire surgical process
Solution Approach 2:
The cortical button is divided into functional segments including the body, toggle, and suture interaction surfaces. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function: the body provides structural support, the toggle provides dynamic tensioning control, and the surfaces provide controlled friction for suture grip
2Ease of operation
If conventional tensioning mechanisms are used, then the device can provide tensioning force, but the device orientation cannot be easily manipulated after insertion through the bone tunnel
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle mechanism provides dynamic control over device orientation. During insertion, the toggle is in an open position that allows the device to be maneuvered through the bone tunnel. After insertion, the toggle can be closed to lock the device in the desired orientation, providing both ease of manipulation and reliable positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be inserted in a preliminary orientation that facilitates easy passage through the bone tunnel, then reoriented to the final functional position after insertion. The toggle mechanism enables this two-stage orientation process by allowing free movement during insertion and secure locking in the final position
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tensioning mechanisms are used, then the device can tension the tendon, but the mechanism is large and can only be used for proximal biceps tenodesis not distal
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle mechanism is nested within the cortical button body, with the toggle rotating within a cavity in the button. This nesting allows the tensioning mechanism to be compact and integrated, reducing the overall device size and enabling use in both proximal and distal biceps tenodesis procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The cortical button design with the integrated toggle mechanism is universal enough to be used for both proximal and distal biceps tenodesis procedures. The same basic device structure and tensioning mechanism work across different surgical locations, eliminating the need for location-specific device variations
4Reliability
If conventional cortical buttons are used, then the device provides fixation point for sutures, but the device lacks any tensioning mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fixation function and tensioning function into a single integrated cortical button device. The toggle mechanism is combined with the button body and suture interaction surfaces, allowing the device to simultaneously provide secure tendon fixation and active tensioning capability without requiring separate components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides reliable tendon tensioning, ensures secure implant placement, and accommodates various suture sizes, facilitating efficient surgical procedures with improved control and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
enabling surgeons to control tendon tension and adjust the button angle using a leverage mechanism
Implementation Method 2
a toggle at least partially housed within the central cavity and connected to the body by a toggle hinge connection, the trunnion at least partially housed within the proximal cavity and connected to the body by a trunnion hinge connection
Data Source
AI summary
An implant system includes an implant having a body having a proximal end, a distal end, a central cavity disposed between the proximal and distal end, and a proximal end opening disposed proximal to the central cavity. A toggle is at least partially housed within the central cavity and connected to the body by a toggle hinge connection, the toggle having a toggle lumen extending therethrough. An inserter includes an inserter lumen, and an actuator having a distal actuator tip configured to advance into the proximal end opening. An implant system, kit, method for placing an implant device, devices and systems using a pivot suture, suture loading device and related surgical procedures are also disclosed.