Knotless Suture Construct with Finger Trap Cinching Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knotless suture anchor constructs for tissue repair do not allow for controlled tensioning of the suture attached to the anchor, and they often require excessive material implantation during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A knotless soft suture construct featuring a repair tape with a finger trap mechanism, preloaded with a transfer suture that forms a cinching loop around the repair site, enabling controlled tensioning without the need for knots and reducing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If knotless suture anchor constructs are used, then the knot interference with repair is eliminated, but controlled tensioning of the suture is not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
A cinching suture loop is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the suture anchor and the tissue repair site. This loop acts as a mediator that enables controlled tensioning through a ratchet mechanism, while the suture itself remains knotless. The cinching loop transfers and controls the tensioning force without requiring traditional knots.
2Ease of operation
If traditional repair constructs are used, then controlled tensioning is achieved, but excessive material is implanted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary material components from traditional repair constructs. By using a suture tape with integrated finger trap mechanism and a minimal cinching suture loop, the design removes redundant materials while maintaining controlled tensioning capability. The construct uses only the essential elements needed for function.
3Productivity
If knotless suture anchors are used, then surgical efficiency is improved, but material cost and implant volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the suture material from traditional round suture to a flat suture tape configuration. This parameter change allows for more efficient material usage, reduced implant volume, and maintained surgical efficiency. The suture tape's geometry enables the finger trap mechanism to function with less material.
Data Source
AI summary
Knotless soft suture constructs include a repair tape having a finger trap. The repair tape is preloaded with a transfer suture through the finger trap. The transfer suture is used to capture an end of the repair tape through itself, forming a cinching suture loop that can be tightened around the repair but not loosened.