Joint Correction Jigs With Threaded Compression and Distraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hallux valgus deformities, such as bunions, often require invasive surgeries like the Lapidus procedure to correct the misalignment of the first metatarsal and first cuneiform joint, which can be complex and challenging to manage without causing further complications.
Innovation Solution
A surgical system comprising a first and second body component coupled by a threaded fastener that allows for adjustable compression and distraction of the joint, enabling precise adjustment of bone alignment using a jig and targeting tools for accurate placement of fixation devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional invasive surgery like Lapidus procedure is used to correct hallux valgus deformities, then joint alignment can be corrected, but surgical complexity and risk of complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jig is designed to pre-establish the desired bone alignment and joint positioning before final fixation. The targeting tools pre-determine the exact placement locations for fixation devices, allowing the surgeon to simply follow the pre-planned configuration rather than making complex real-time decisions during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The jig acts as an intermediary device between the surgeon's intent and the actual bone positioning. It provides a physical framework that guides fixation device placement and maintains precise bone alignment throughout the procedure, translating the surgical plan into accurate physical positioning without requiring complex manual manipulation.
2Measurement precision
If traditional surgery is performed without specialized jigs, then surgical freedom of movement is maintained, but measurement precision and placement accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The jig provides localized precision at critical points (fixation device placement locations and bone interface areas) while leaving the rest of the surgical field accessible. The targeting tools concentrate measurement and guidance functions at specific anatomical landmarks, ensuring high accuracy where needed without restricting overall surgical access or maneuverability.
3Manufacturing precision
If extensive surgery is performed to correct joint deformities, then alignment correction is achieved, but surgical time and tissue trauma increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jig and targeting tools establish the complete alignment and fixation device placement plan before any bones are moved or fixed. This preliminary configuration allows the surgeon to execute the correction in a single efficient sequence rather than making multiple adjustment passes, reducing both surgical time and tissue exposure duration.
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
Facilitates controlled adjustment of bone alignment, allowing for precise correction of joint deformities like hallux valgus without the need for extensive surgery, reducing complications and improving surgical precision.
Implementation Method 1
The first threaded fastener includes a first threaded section and a second threaded section. Rotation of the first threaded fastener in a first direction causes the first and second body components to move toward each other in a second direction to compress the joint, and rotation of the first threaded fastener in a third direction causes the first and second body components to move away from each other in a fourth direction to distract the joint.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first tool. The first tool includes a first component, a second component, and at least one fastener for coupling the first component to the second component. The first component is coupled to the second component such that a distance between the first component and the second component in a first direction is adjustable. The first tool is configured to provide a controlled adjustment of a first bone relative to a second bone in a second direction that is different from the first direction.