Image-Guided Joint Resurfacing with Selective Material Deposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for knee joint resurfacing in computer-assisted surgery require approximate sizings and general approximations, often necessitating pre-manufactured components and trial fittings, which can be cumbersome and less precise.
Innovation Solution
The system employs image-guided computer-aided surgery to pre-map joint geometry, guiding an applicator that selectively prepares and deposits materials, such as polymers or ceramics, to rebuild or resurface joints without the need for jigs or fixtures, using real-time measurements and robotic assistance for precise material application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pre-manufactured components and trial fittings are used, then the joint reconstruction can be performed with standard components, but the surgical time and complexity increase due to multiple trial fittings and approximations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs pre-mapping of joint geometry and pre-calculation of component specifications before surgery. The image-guided system creates a three-dimensional model of the patient's joint and determines the exact component size and shape needed, eliminating the need for trial fittings during surgery. This preliminary planning allows direct implantation of the correctly sized component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial fitting process with an image-guided computational system. Instead of physically trying multiple pre-manufactured components of different sizes, the system uses pre-operative imaging and computer-based calculations to determine the exact component specifications, substituting physical trial-and-error with digital precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If pre-manufactured components are used, then standardization is achieved, but the precision and customization of the joint reconstruction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines the specific geometry and dimensions of the joint defect through pre-operative imaging and creates a customized component design that matches the unique anatomical characteristics of each patient's joint. The image-guided system calculates the exact shape, size, and orientation needed for each specific case, allowing full customization rather than relying on standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent varies multiple parameters including component size, shape, orientation, and material properties based on the pre-mapped joint geometry. The system adjusts these parameters to optimize the fit and function for each specific patient anatomy, enabling precise customization of the replacement component rather than using fixed standard sizes.
3Ease of operation
If approximate sizings and general approximations are used, then the surgical procedure is simpler, but the precision and functionality of the restored joint is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual approximation and estimation methods with an image-guided computer-based system that performs precise calculations of joint geometry and component specifications. The system uses pre-operative imaging data to automatically calculate the exact component size and orientation, eliminating the need for surgical judgment and approximation while maintaining procedural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for shaping an anatomical component having an existing shape and a desired reconstructed shape include an applicator for depositing material on the anatomical component and a controller in communication with the applicator, the controller controlling the deposition of material by the applicator based on a relationship between the applicator and the existing shape of the anatomical component to create the desired reconstructed shape.