Knotless Surgical Fixation With Independent Loop Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical methods often require knots to secure sutures, which can be time-consuming and may compromise the integrity of the repair, particularly in knotless surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical fixation system featuring adjustable loops with independent locking mechanisms, allowing for knotless repairs by adjusting the loop size using free braid strands and spliced sections, combined with fixation devices that provide additional locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional knot-tying methods are used to secure sutures, then the surgical repair can be secured, but the surgical procedure becomes time-consuming and may compromise the integrity of the repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the knot-tying step from the surgical procedure by using pre-formed loops with integrated locking mechanisms that secure sutures without requiring manual knot tying. The locking mechanism is built into the loop structure itself, eliminating the need for separate knot-tying actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The loops are pre-formed with integrated locking mechanisms before surgery. The locking feature is prepared in advance as part of the loop structure, allowing for rapid deployment during surgery without requiring time-consuming knot-tying operations.
2Productivity
If adjustable loops with locking mechanisms are used, then knotless surgical repairs can be performed efficiently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the loop structure with the locking mechanism into a single integrated component. The locking feature is combined with the loop geometry itself, creating a unified structure that provides both the adjustable loop function and the securing mechanism without requiring separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The loop structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the adjustable configuration capability, the securing function through its locking mechanism, and the suture attachment point. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
3Reliability
If independent locking mechanisms are implemented, then the reliability of the fixation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct geometric features within the loop structure, such as separate engagement surfaces and locking elements. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing processes where each feature can be created independently and then assembled or integrated into the final loop component.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to surgical fixation systems and methods. The surgical fixation systems of this disclosure may include various combinations of fixation devices, soft suture constructs, and/or adjustable loops and are configured for use in various knotless surgical methods, including but not limited to, syndesmosis, AC joint, UCL, bunion, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) surgical methods.