Fusion Implant with Adjustable Axial Sliding Socket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for fusing small bones, such as those in joints of the foot or hand, face challenges in providing a stable and adjustable fixation that allows for proper bone fusion while accommodating anatomical variations and potential need for revision procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of fusion implants with first and second components in an angularly constrained and press-fit axial sliding relationship, featuring a smooth inner socket for infinitely adjustable axial sliding, and anti-rotation members to secure the components to the bone, made from biocompatible materials like metals and plastics, allowing for adjustable and secure bone fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional rigid fixation methods are used for bone fusion, then stability is improved, but adaptability to anatomical variations and revision procedures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implant transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable system. The two-component design with press-fit connection allows the implant to be adjusted axially and angularly after insertion, enabling adaptation to anatomical variations and facilitating revision procedures while maintaining fixation stability through the press-fit mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant is divided into two separate components that can be inserted independently into the bones and then connected. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific bone characteristics and enables flexible positioning and adjustment of the connection interface to achieve optimal fixation stability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable axial sliding relationship is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complexity of achieving adjustable axial sliding is extracted from the bone-implant interface and concentrated at the implant-implant connection interface. The smooth inner wall of the socket and corresponding outer surface design provide the sliding mechanism independently of the bone fixation features, simplifying the overall system while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket with smooth inner wall acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two implant components, providing the infinitely adjustable axial sliding relationship. This intermediary structure simplifies the connection design by using a straightforward press-fit sliding interface rather than complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If anti-rotation members are added to prevent bone rotation, then fixation stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-rotation function is merged with the existing implant component structure rather than being implemented as separate additional elements. The anti-rotation members are integrated into the outer surface of one component or the inner surface of the socket, combining rotational constraint with the axial sliding and press-fit mechanisms in a unified structural design.
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
Enables effective immobilization and fusion of adjacent bone portions, providing a secure, adjustable, and biocompatible solution that can be easily revised if needed, suitable for various bone sizes and shapes, enhancing the stability and longevity of bone fusion.
Implementation Method 1
a socket having a smooth inner wall free of discrete axially spaced features... in infinitely adjustable axial sliding relationship
Implementation Method 2
at least one outwardly projecting anti-rotation member operable to engage bone surrounding the other component in torque transmitting relationship to resist rotation
Data Source
AI summary
Implants, instruments, and methods are presented for fixing adjacent bone portions to promote fusion of the bone portion.