Implant Extractor Reducing Torque via Segmented Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical methods for extracting joint implants from bone often result in torque on the implant, which can cause injury to the patient's bone or soft tissue.
Innovation Solution
A surgical extraction tool comprising a housing, an adjustment mechanism, an outer sleeve, an inner shaft, and a clamp, designed to extract the humeral and/or ulnar component of an elbow implant or other implants from bones, minimizing torque during extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If existing surgical methods are used to extract joint implants, then the implant can be removed from bone, but torque is applied to the implant causing injury to bone or soft tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor is divided into multiple functional segments: a clamp portion with opposing clamp surfaces for gripping the implant, a shaft portion for transmission, and a handle portion for operation. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while reducing unwanted torque transmission to the implant during extraction.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of applying force directly to the implant which would create torque, the invention inverts the approach by using a clamp mechanism that grips the implant and transmits extraction force through a shaft. The clamp surfaces are designed to contact the implant in a way that minimizes rotational moment, extracting the implant along its longitudinal axis rather than applying lateral or rotational forces.
2Device complexity
If a simple extraction tool is used, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot effectively reduce torque on the implant
Solution Approach 1:
The extractor incorporates dynamic elements including a ratchet mechanism that allows unidirectional movement and a spring-loaded clamp system that automatically adjusts to grip the implant securely. These dynamic features enable the device to adapt to the extraction process while maintaining minimal torque on the implant, balancing functionality with controlled complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft portion acts as an intermediary between the handle and the clamp, transmitting force while isolating the operator's rotational input from the implant. The ratchet mechanism serves as another intermediary that converts rotational motion into linear extraction motion, preventing torque from being directly applied to the implant while maintaining mechanical advantage.
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 tool effectively reduces torque on the implant during extraction, thereby minimizing the risk of injury to the patient's bone or soft tissue, while allowing for safe and efficient removal of implants.
Implementation Method 1
the inner shaft includes a threaded proximal end
Implementation Method 2
The textured surface includes ribs, teeth, knurling, protrusions, grooves, ridges, dimples, spikes, or a combination thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An implant extractor for extracting an implant from bone comprising a housing, an adjustment mechanism within the housing, an outer sleeve extending from the housing, an inner shaft within the outer sleeve and having a proximal end operatively engaged with the adjustment mechanism, and a clamp operatively engaged with distal ends of the inner shaft and the outer sleeve.