Interphalangeal Joint Prosthesis With Open-Cell Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopaedic prostheses for interphalangeal joints lack a design that effectively replicates the natural motion and stability of the joint, particularly due to weak spots in the pivoting unit which can lead to deformation and unpredictable motion.
Innovation Solution
The orthopaedic prosthesis features a frame with a plurality of tessellated polyhedrons forming an open-cell structure, encased in a silicone shell, with arcuate sections defining grooves to allow for flexion motion, and optionally includes a reinforcing element, fabricated using stereolithography for precise 3D printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pivoting units with concavities are used, then the prosthesis can achieve motion, but the weak spots lead to deformation and unpredictable motion
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple beams that form an open-cell structure with polyhedrons, creating controlled weak spots at the beam connections rather than in a solid pivoting unit. This segmentation allows predictable bending at specific locations while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The open-cell structure provides different mechanical properties at different locations: the beam connections serve as controlled weak spots for bending, while the overall frame maintains sufficient strength. The grooves in the central body provide localized flexibility for flexion motion while the rest of the structure remains rigid.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a solid frame structure is used, then the prosthesis has high strength, but it lacks the flexibility for natural joint motion
Solution Approach 1:
The frame uses an open-cell structure with polyhedrons and openings, creating a porous-like architecture that provides both strength and flexibility. This structure allows the frame to bend predictably at beam connections while maintaining overall structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame transitions from a rigid solid structure to a dynamic structure with controlled flexibility. The open-cell design allows the frame to adapt its stiffness based on the applied load, providing natural motion during joint flexion while maintaining stability during weight-bearing.
3Reliability
If the prosthesis uses a complex structure to replicate natural motion, then motion accuracy improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex motion requirements are met by segmenting the frame into multiple beams and polyhedrons rather than using a single complex component. This modular approach achieves accurate natural motion while simplifying manufacturing through standardized repeating units.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are combined into the single open-cell frame structure: the beams provide structural support, the polyhedrons create controlled flexibility, and the grooves enable flexion motion. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while achieving accurate joint motion.
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
This design enhances the stability and natural motion of the prosthesis by creating weak spots for predictable bending, improving the overall functionality and durability of the implant, while the silicone shell provides a biocompatible and secure encasement.
Implementation Method 1
The concavities provide a 'weak' spot that encourages the location of the pivoting deformation to the hinge, thereby producing predictable and natural motion
Implementation Method 2
the silicone shell provides a biocompatible and secure encasement
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopaedic prosthesis is disclosed. The orthopaedic prosthesis includes a frame including a plurality of beams defining an open-cell structure and a shell applied to the frame. The frame includes a proximal arm, a distal arm, and a central body connecting the proximal arm to the distal arm. The shell extends over the proximal arm, the distal arm, and the central body of the frame. A method of implanting an orthopaedic prosthesis is also disclosed.