Deformable Fastener System for Precise Bone Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inserting screws into bone fractures are complex, time-consuming, and prone to errors, with existing screws often losing grip and stripping out of the bone, especially in percutaneous surgery, where accurate placement is challenging and cortex fixation is limited.
Innovation Solution
A guidance and positioning device that includes a body member with a hook and guide channel, allowing for the placement of biocompatible implants and dynamic or rigid fixation of tissue, using a pushrod to position fasteners and sutures, and a drill system to create passages in tissue, facilitating single-incision access and precise placement of fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw insertion methods are used for bone fracture fixation, then fixation stability can be achieved, but the surgical process becomes complex and time-consuming with multiple incisions and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple surgical functions (drilling, screw insertion, and fixation) into a single integrated instrument that can be accessed through one incision. The instrument integrates a drill bit, screw driver, and fixation mechanism into one unified tool, eliminating the need for separate incisions and steps required by traditional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument is designed to perform multiple functions: it can drill holes in bone, insert screws or other fixation elements, and provide stable fixation all through a single device. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized tools and incisions in traditional surgery.
2Reliability
If traditional screw insertion methods are used, then fixation can be achieved, but the procedure becomes time-consuming with multiple steps including drilling, measuring, tapping, and screwing
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is pre-configured with the drill bit, screw, and fixation mechanism in a ready-to-use arrangement. The screw and other components are pre-positioned within the instrument housing, eliminating the need for separate measuring, selection, and assembly steps during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple time-consuming steps (drilling, measuring, tapping, and screwing) are merged into a single integrated action performed by one instrument. The device executes all these operations sequentially or simultaneously through one insertion and activation process.
3Reliability
If screws are inserted through multiple incisions, then fixation can be achieved, but the surgical access becomes complex requiring multiple openings to the treated bone
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is designed with a segmented or modular structure that allows it to navigate around the bone and deliver fixation elements from a single access point. The instrument may include articulated sections or flexible components that enable it to reach the target site through one incision rather than requiring direct access from multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The single incision acts as an intermediary access point that the instrument uses to deliver multiple fixation elements to different locations on the bone. The instrument serves as a mediator that translates the single access point into multi-point fixation capability.
4Reliability
If conventional screws are used for percutaneous surgery, then fixation can be attempted, but accurate placement is challenging and cortex fixation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument replaces manual mechanical screw insertion with a controlled mechanical delivery system that uses the instrument's built-in positioning mechanisms and guide structures to achieve precise placement. The system substitutes operator skill-based placement with instrument-guided precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument includes visual indicators or markers (such as colored bands, reflective elements, or visible alignment features) that help the surgeon verify proper positioning and orientation of the instrument and delivered fixation elements, enhancing placement accuracy through visual feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
The guidance and positioning device may be a system for creating a passage in tissue, positioning fasteners or other implants, and tensioning an elongated fastening member, like a suture, thread, wire, or pin. In some embodiments, the device may allow for the implantation of multiple sutures and fasteners in tissue. A fastener may be positioned at the distal end of a flexible pushrod. The fastener may be connected with the pushrod or may be loosely fitted with the distal end of the pushrod. A suture may be looped through or connected with the fastener such that one, two, or more sections, legs, strands, or portions of the suture extend from the fastener.