Extra-articular Energy Absorbing Apparatus for Joint Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for osteoarthritis, such as joint replacement and external devices, are invasive, lack precision in controlling joint load, and do not effectively address the unique energy absorption and transfer functions of natural joints, leading to limited efficacy in alleviating pain and restoring joint function.
Innovation Solution
A surgical procedure for implanting an extra-articular mechanical energy absorbing apparatus across an articulating joint, utilizing adjustable surgical tables, guide structures, and anatomical references to ensure precise placement of energy-absorbing devices that can absorb and transfer energy, reducing load on joint surfaces during movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If joint replacement surgery is performed, then pain relief and joint function are improved, but surgical invasiveness and recovery time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption function is divided into separate modular components (energy absorbing elements) that can be implanted independently rather than replacing the entire joint. This segmentation allows for less invasive surgery while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
Energy absorbing elements are introduced as intermediary components between the joint surfaces to manage load and energy. These elements mediate the mechanical interactions without requiring complete joint replacement, reducing surgical invasiveness while preserving pain relief and function.
2Reliability
If external devices are used to control joint load, then joint function is improved, but precision in controlling joint load decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces external mechanical control devices with internally integrated energy absorbing elements that have predetermined mechanical properties. This substitution enables precise control of joint load through the inherent characteristics of the implanted elements rather than through external adjustment mechanisms.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional surgical methods are used, then device implantation is achieved, but precision in placement and alignment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Guides and alignment tools are prepared and positioned before the actual implantation of energy absorbing elements. This preliminary action establishes precise reference frameworks that ensure accurate placement and alignment during the implantation process, overcoming limitations of traditional surgical methods.
4Reliability
If invasive treatments are performed, then joint function can be restored, but natural joint energy absorption mechanisms are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorbing elements are designed with specific mechanical parameters (stiffness, energy absorption capacity) that match and complement the natural joint's energy absorption characteristics. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the implanted devices restore joint function while maintaining compatibility with natural energy absorption mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical implantation approach for preparing a patient and precisely and effectively placing an energy absorbing apparatus relative to the patient's anatomy. Various surgical implantation apparatus and methods for achieving proper device-to-anatomy juxtapositional relationships are employed in the implantation approach.