Bioabsorbable Mesh for Graft Fixation Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for fixing ligament grafts within bone tunnels often result in graft slippage, displacement, and damage during fixation, with existing devices not adequately addressing the need for secure and damage-free insertion, especially in complex reconstructions like double-bundle cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional mesh made of bioabsorbable or non-absorbable materials, designed as a collapsible, 'one size fits all' flat piece that can be molded into various shapes, providing structural support and reducing insertion torque, while allowing for easier graft placement and healing, and incorporating therapeutic agents for enhanced tissue integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixation device is inserted to secure the graft within the bone tunnel, then the graft is rigidly fixed to prevent slippage or displacement, but the fixation device may damage the graft during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh acts as an intermediary protective layer between the fixation device and the graft. The mesh is positioned adjacent to the graft during fixation device insertion, absorbing mechanical stresses and preventing direct contact between the fixation device and graft, thereby eliminating graft laceration while maintaining fixation stability
2Reliability
If the graft is rigidly fixed within the bone tunnel to prevent slippage or displacement, then fixation reliability is improved, but insertion complexity increases due to the need for precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh is pre-positioned adjacent to the graft before fixation device insertion. This preliminary positioning establishes a stable framework that guides the fixation device, simplifying the overall procedure by eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during graft fixation
3Ease of operation
If a traditional fixation method is used without additional structural support, then the procedure is simpler, but graft slippage and displacement occur during fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh provides localized structural support at the critical interface between the graft and fixation device. This targeted reinforcement at the fixation site prevents graft slippage and displacement without requiring complex modifications to the entire graft or tunnel system
Data Source
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AI summary
A three-dimensional mesh or screen in the shape of a simple flat piece of material that can be provided adjacent the graft (i.e., in between graft bundles, or around the graft, or between the graft and the fixation device) for improved strength and structural support for graft fixation. The mesh provides improved methods for installing and securing ligament grafts (such as double-bundle cruciate ligament grafts) with enhanced reconstruction results.