Femoral Reference Block With Adjustable Condyle Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instrument systems for total knee arthroplasty lack versatility and adaptability to individual patient anatomy, compromising surgical precision and visibility during condylar bone and cartilage defect compensation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument system with a reference block and compensation elements that allow for adjustable positioning along multiple axes, enabling flexible attachment and improved visibility of the contact point between the compensation element and the condyle, using a connection system that permits different orientations and placements based on the specific condylar wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the compensation element completely covers the block front side, then the compensation element provides comprehensive support and stability, but the surgeon's visibility of the contact point between the compensation element and the condyle is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The block front side is segmented into multiple regions (medial region, lateral region, and intermediate region) with different compensation element configurations. The intermediate region features a reduced compensation element thickness or absence, creating a visual window that maintains structural support while improving surgeon visibility of the contact point.
2Device complexity
If the compensation element is fixed in a single position, then the construction is simple, but the system lacks adaptability to different condylar wear patterns and patient anatomies
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the compensation element to be positioned at multiple locations along the anterior-posterior axis and medial-lateral axis. The connection portions include adjustable connectors and positioning mechanisms that enable dynamic repositioning while maintaining secure attachment, adapting to various condylar wear patterns and patient anatomies.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection portions are provided for different positioning, then the adaptability to condylar wear location is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses universal multi-functional connection portions that can accommodate different positioning requirements through a standardized interface. The connection portions are designed to work with various compensation element configurations and positions, reducing the need for multiple specialized components while maintaining adaptability to different condylar wear locations and patient anatomies.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument system for use in a total knee arthroplasty includes a reference block that is attachable to a femur. The reference block has a block front side and a block rear side lying opposite the block front side. At least one compensation element has an element rear side and, lying opposite along the proximal-distal axis, a contact face for contacting a lateral condyle and/or medial condyle. A connection system has at least one connection portion on the reference block. At least one complementary connection portion is disposed on the compensation element. The connection system is configured to releasably attach the compensation element on the block front side. The connection system is configured so that the compensation element is attachable in different positions on the block front side by the connection system.