Graft Fixation Device Segmented Implantation for Arthroscopic Bone Repair
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical fastening devices are generic and difficult to use in minimally invasive procedures, particularly for fixing tissue-engineered matrices to bone, and they often require sutures or periosteal harvesting, which can be morbid and challenging.
Innovation Solution
A graft fixation device with elongated implantation members and a connecting rod that maintains the members at a fixed distance, allowing for secure fixation of tissue-engineered matrices to bone without sutures, suitable for both arthroscopic and open procedures, using bio-compatible materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional surgical fasteners (sutures, periosteal coverings, fibrin glue) are used to affix tissue-engineered matrices to bone, then the matrices can be secured to the bone site, but the procedures are time-consuming, require suturing skills, and have significant patient morbidity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fixation function from complex suture-based systems and implements it through a dedicated fixation device with implantation members that directly secure the matrix to bone, eliminating the need for sutures and knot-tying while reducing surgical time
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device acts as an intermediary between the tissue-engineered matrix and the bone, providing a mechanical connection that eliminates the need for soft tissue suturing while ensuring reliable fixation during the tissue regeneration process
2Reliability
If periosteum is harvested for use as a periosteal flap to cover the matrix, then the matrix can be protected and secured, but patient morbidity increases and the procedure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the protective and securing function from the periosteal flap approach and implements it through the fixation device structure itself, which provides both mechanical fixation and protection without requiring harvesting of periosteal tissue
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device provides temporary protection and fixation during the critical regeneration period without requiring permanent structural changes or harvesting of patient tissue, reducing morbidity while ensuring matrix stability
3Adaptability or versatility
If generic surgical fastening devices are used for matrix fixation, then the devices can be applied to various surgical procedures, but they are difficult to use in minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures and require significant surgical skill
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is segmented into separate implantation members that can be independently inserted through small arthroscopic portals, with each member independently securing the matrix to bone, making the procedure minimally invasive while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The implantation members are pre-formed with specific geometries and surface features that facilitate easy insertion and secure fixation without requiring complex intraoperative manipulation or advanced suturing skills, simplifying the surgical procedure
Data Source
AI summary
A graft fixation device. The device is useful for affixing a tissue graft to a bone or other body surface. The graft fixation device comprises two implantation members connected by a connecting member. The implantation members have longitudinal passageways therethrough.