Curved Alveolar Bone Distractor for Anatomical Conformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distractors for alveolar maxillary and mandibular defects are heavy, have large components, and are designed for straight-line distraction, leading to anatomical mismatch, patient discomfort, and accessibility issues during adjustments, as they are often submerged under submucosal layers.
Innovation Solution
A curved alveolar bone distractor with an elongate, threaded traction rod supported by anchor brackets and a translator nut that allows for easy access and adjustment, enabling distraction along a curvilinear path that conforms to the natural bone contours, using lightweight materials for comfort and ease of manufacture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a straight-line distractor is used, then the distraction path is simple and direct, but it does not conform to the curvilinear anatomy of the jaw arch
Solution Approach 1:
The distractor bar is designed with a curved configuration that matches the natural curvilinear path of the jaw arch, allowing the distraction to follow anatomical contours rather than a straight line. This curved bar resolves the contradiction by incorporating the necessary curvature into the primary structural element while maintaining relative simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If distractor components are submerged under submucosal layers, then aesthetics are improved, but accessibility for adjustments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distractor system is divided into separate components: the distractor bar remains exposed for accessibility, while only the anchor brackets are submerged under the submucosal layer for aesthetics. This segmentation allows each component to serve its optimal function - the exposed bar provides easy access for adjustments while the hidden anchors maintain aesthetic appearance.
3Strength
If heavy materials and large components are used, then structural strength is improved, but patient comfort and ease of manufacture are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distractor employs a threaded traction rod mechanism that allows for controlled distraction forces through rotational movement. This mechanical advantage provides sufficient structural strength for bone distraction while using lighter materials and smaller components compared to traditional heavy-duty distractors, resolving the contradiction between strength and weight.
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 curved distractor provides anatomical conformity, reduces patient discomfort, and facilitates easy adjustments by allowing distraction along a curvilinear path, ensuring that new bone and tissue growth matches the jaw contours while being lightweight and easy to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
A translator nut is threaded onto the traction rod to abut against a side of the traction bracket. Selective rotation of the translator nut pushes the traction bracket to move the movable bony segment a predetermined distraction distance.
Data Source
AI summary
The curved alveolar bone distractor includes an elongate curved and threaded traction rod supported on opposite ends by anchor brackets. The anchor brackets fix the traction rod onto bony foundation of a patient's jaw. Endcaps cap opposing ends of the traction rod to prevent dislodging and define the extent of working length of the traction rod. A traction bracket freely slides along the traction rod, and the traction bracket is fixed to a movable bony segment. A translator nut is threaded onto the traction rod to abut against a side of the traction bracket. Selective rotation of the translator nut pushes the traction bracket to move the movable bony segment a predetermined distraction distance. When assembled and installed, the working components of the curved distractor are exposed in the oral cavity to the facial side for easy access. Tools are provided to operate the translator nut.