Double-Punch Inserter for Single-Step Tensionable Anchor Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tools lack the ability to efficiently introduce multiple suture anchors simultaneously and interconnect them with sutures to apply compression to grafts, soft tissue, and bone in a single step, particularly in procedures like graft augmentation for unstable joints.
Innovation Solution
A surgical tool assembly with multiple prongs, each bearing a suture anchor, allows simultaneous insertion and interconnection of anchors through soft tissue and bone, utilizing tensionable sutures to apply compression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple suture anchors are introduced using existing surgical tools, then the surgical procedure requires multiple separate steps and tools, but this increases surgical time and procedural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple prongs with anchors and interconnecting sutures into a single surgical tool assembly, allowing simultaneous introduction of multiple anchors through one integrated device rather than requiring separate tools for each anchor
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical tool assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it introduces multiple anchors, interconnects them with sutures, and applies compression forces all through a single multi-functional device rather than requiring separate specialized tools for each function
2Productivity
If suture anchors are introduced sequentially using traditional methods, then each anchor requires separate insertion and suturing, but this increases surgical time and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The sutures are pre-configured and attached to the anchors before surgery, and the entire assembly is prepared in advance, allowing for rapid simultaneous deployment of multiple anchors and sutures during the surgical procedure without time-consuming sequential assembly
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple anchor insertions and suture applications are merged into a single simultaneous action through the multi-pronged tool assembly, eliminating the time required for sequential operations
3Strength
If multiple anchors are introduced without interconnection, then insertion is simpler, but compression force cannot be applied to secure grafts or soft tissue to bone
Solution Approach 1:
The anchors are merged with interconnecting sutures as an integrated assembly, allowing the compression function to be built into the structural design of the tool itself rather than requiring separate compression mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The sutures are designed to be tensionable, allowing the system to transition from a simple insertion state to a compressed secured state by adjusting the tension parameter of the sutures after anchor deployment
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A
AI summary
A surgical tool assembly includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, a first prong distal to and fixed relative to the shaft, and a second prong distal to and fixed relative to the shaft. A first anchor is disposed on the first prong, and a second anchor is disposed on the second prong. A first suture interconnects the first anchor and the second anchor.