Hollow Meniscus Prosthesis with Integrated Fixation Anchors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical prosthetic devices for meniscus replacement lack effective tribology and require customization, leading to increased surgical time and potential lateral stresses during implantation.
Innovation Solution
A meniscus prosthesis with a hollow-like structure that deforms to accommodate cartilage surfaces, featuring a semi-ellipsoidal solid body with integrated fixation anchors and a bioactive coating for secure positioning and tissue integration, reducing the need for separate fixation means and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional solid meniscus prosthesis is used, then structural strength is maintained, but tribology performance deteriorates due to imprecise contact surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hollow-like structure with a thin membrane section (less than 2mm thickness) that can deform to accommodate cartilage surfaces. This flexible membrane allows the prosthesis to conform precisely to the irregular surfaces of the femoral condyle and tibial plateau, improving contact surface precision and tribology performance while maintaining structural integrity through the hollow configuration.
2Manufacturing precision
If customization and fitting procedures are implemented, then prosthesis fit is improved, but surgical time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal prosthesis with standardized dimensions and features that can be applied across multiple patient cases without requiring custom fabrication. The hollow-like structure with integrated fixation anchors provides a multi-functional design that accommodates various anatomical variations through its deformable membrane, eliminating the need for time-consuming customization and fitting procedures during surgery.
3Reliability
If separate fixation means are used, then fixation security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates fixation anchors directly into the body of the prosthesis, combining the fixation function with the main structural component. The hollow-like structure incorporates fixation features such as keels or screws that extend from its walls, eliminating the need for separate fixation means and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining secure attachment to the tibial plateau.
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 solution provides precise contact surfaces for improved tribology, secure fixation, and reduced surgical time by eliminating the need for customization and minimizing lateral stresses, enhancing the prosthetic's performance and patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a hollow-like structure that is capable of the deformation necessary to accommodate the cartilage surfaces
Implementation Method 2
the bottom surface of the meniscus may be coated with a bioactive coating applied for the purpose of encouraging the in-growth of natural tissue into the meniscus
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthetic device that may be utilized as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device can restore shock absorption, stability, and function to the knee after the damaged natural meniscus is removed and replaced with the prosthetic device. In some embodiments, the meniscus includes an integral fixation anchor and additional features that minimize the requirement for modification of the implant for proper fit during surgery.