Porous Hip Labrum Scaffold for Tissue Ingrowth and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hip labrum reconstruction methods using allografts and xenografts lack adjustability in mechanical and biological properties, and there is a need for improved scaffolds that facilitate tissue ingrowth and integration.
Innovation Solution
Development of hip labrum scaffolds made from synthetic polymers with controlled pore sizes and mechanical properties, configured to degrade over 4 to 6 years, promoting tissue ingrowth and sealing the acetabulum to the femoral head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If allografts or xenografts made of natural tissue are used for hip labrum reconstruction, then the implant provides biological compatibility, but the mechanical and biological properties cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using synthetic polymers with tunable mechanical and biological properties. The scaffold's degradation rate, pore size, and mechanical strength can be precisely controlled through polymer selection and processing parameters, allowing customization for different patient needs while maintaining predictable performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining synthetic polymers with specific pore structures to create a scaffold that mimics natural labrum tissue. The composite structure integrates mechanical support functions with biological degradation capabilities, achieving both adjustability and reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If porous foam structure is used to promote tissue growth, then tissue ingrowth is facilitated, but mechanical strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies porous materials by designing a foam scaffold with controlled pore sizes between 100-400 microns. This pore structure facilitates cell infiltration and tissue ingrowth while the patent maintains mechanical integrity through appropriate polymer selection and density control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions of different pore sizes and densities within the scaffold. The pore distribution and structure are optimized locally to balance mechanical load-bearing capacity with tissue ingrowth requirements in different zones of the labrum
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the scaffold degrades completely within 4-6 years, then the implant provides temporary support, but the degradation timeline is extended compared to faster-degrading materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing a scaffold with controlled degradation that evolves over time. The synthetic polymer gradually degrades as tissue regenerates, providing mechanical support when needed and transitioning to complete degradation within 4-6 years, matching the tissue healing timeline
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
The scaffolds provide a composite material with mechanical and biological properties similar to natural hip labrums, reducing pain and improving functionality by facilitating tissue ingrowth and maintaining synovial fluid retention, while being adaptable to challenging anatomies.
Implementation Method 1
The porous foam comprises a synthetic polymer. The hip labrum scaffold is configured to degrade when positioned in a human patient. The degradation is configured to be completed at a time of greater than or equal to 4 years and less than or equal to 6 years after implantation into the human patient.
Implementation Method 2
The method comprises heating the porous foam to a temperature of at least 1 °C above its melting point, thereby increasing the average pore size of the porous foam.
Implementation Method 3
heating the porous foam to a temperature of at least 1 °C above its melting point
Implementation Method 4
a method of annealing a porous foam for use in a hip labrum scaffold is provided. The method comprises heating the porous foam to a temperature of at least 1 °C above its melting point, thereby increasing one or more mechanical properties of the porous foam while substantially retaining its porosity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
Hip labrum scaffolds are generally provided. In some embodiments, the hip labrum scaffolds described herein have one or more advantageous features. For instance, some hip labrum scaffolds may have one or more properties that facilitate tissue ingrowth and/or have beneficial mechanical properties.