Expandable Balloon for Joint Distraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for joint distraction, particularly in joints like the hip, ankle, and wrist, face challenges such as high complication rates, limited access, and difficulty in manipulating the joint due to external traction methods, which can cause nerve damage and tissue pressure issues, and existing balloon devices often require excessive pressure or occupy too much joint space.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using an elongate member with an expandable member, such as a balloon, positioned between joint surfaces to distract them without external traction, allowing for manipulation and access to the joint space for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, with the balloon being inflated to a pressure not exceeding 100 psi to exert at least 25 pounds of force and engaging less than 50% of the joint surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external traction is applied to distract the joint, then the joint space is accessed, but nerve damage and tissue pressure necrosis occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a balloon as an intermediary device placed within the joint space to distract the joint surfaces. The balloon is inflated to separate the joint surfaces, replacing the need for external traction forces that directly contact and harm nerves and soft tissues. This intermediary approach achieves joint distraction without the harmful side effects of external traction tables.
2Reliability
If external traction is applied to distract the joint, then the joint space is accessed, but the joint cannot be manipulated for increased access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic system where the balloon can be inflated to a specific size to maintain joint distraction, while the joint can still be manipulated within a controlled range of motion. The distraction force is maintained through balloon pressure rather than rigid external fixation, allowing for dynamic manipulation of the joint to access different areas during surgical procedures.
3Force
If existing balloon devices are used to distract the joint, then joint distraction is achieved, but excessive pressure or too much joint space occupation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the balloon parameters including size, shape, and inflation pressure to achieve effective joint distraction without excessive pressure. The balloon is designed with specific dimensions and material properties that allow it to distract the joint surfaces adequately while maintaining pressure within safe limits, preventing tissue damage and optimizing joint access.
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
This approach reduces complication rates, provides easier and wider access to the joint space, allows for joint manipulation, and enables the performance of procedures like arthroscopy without the need for external traction, while minimizing tissue damage and pressure issues.
Implementation Method 1
the balloon being inflated to a pressure not exceeding 100 psi to exert at least 25 pounds of force
Data Source
AI summary
A method of treating a patient's joint having opposing joint surfaces includes providing an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end and an expandable member near the distal end. The expandable member is positioned in the joint between the joint surfaces and expanded so as to separate the joint surfaces away from one another into a distracted position. The joint is manipulated while in the distracted position so that the joint is distracted and in flexion. A diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is then performed on the joint while maintaining the joint in the flexed and distracted position.