Mandibular Resection Template Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mandibular resection templates are not sufficiently precise, are cumbersome to handle, and are expensive, making them inefficient for use in combination with fibula bone material removal and placement templates during jaw reconstruction.

Innovation Solution

A universal mandibular resection template with a central component and positioning aids for precise alignment, along with a system of thin mini-plates for transplant fixation, designed to be adaptable to the average patient anatomy, allowing for precise cuts and efficient reconstruction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If previously known mandibular resection templates are used, then cutting guidance is provided, but precision is insufficient and handling is awkward

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting precisionVSAvoidhandling ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The template is divided into a central component and separate cutting tool guide sections that can be independently positioned and attached to different segments of the jawbone. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while improving overall precision and ease of handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The template includes pre-formed guide sections and positioning elements that are prepared in advance according to standard anatomical configurations. These preliminary preparations enable quick attachment and precise alignment without requiring complex intraoperative adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If previously known mandibular resection templates are used, then cutting guidance is provided, but the device is expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The template is designed as a universal device that can accommodate multiple cutting patterns and jawbone configurations through standardized guide sections. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized templates, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining high precision across different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The template utilizes standardized parameters and modular components that can be manufactured using conventional processes. By adopting standard dimensions and interchangeable parts, manufacturing complexity and cost are reduced while preserving cutting precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If patient-specific templates are made, then precision is improved, but cost and time increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidpreparation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The template incorporates pre-formed guide sections based on standard anatomical data that can be attached directly to pre-marked jawbone segments. This preliminary preparation of standardized components eliminates the need for time-consuming custom fabrication while achieving sufficient precision for the majority of cases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The universal template design covers approximately 80% of resection patterns through its modular guide sections, providing a time-efficient solution that does not require patient-specific customization for most clinical scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Strength

If thick reconstruction plates are used for fixation, then structural strength is ensured, but material removal is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation strengthVSAvoidbone material removal
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation system uses thin mini-plates (1.0 mm thickness) with strategically placed holes that provide sufficient structural strength at critical locations while minimizing overall material bulk. This localized reinforcement approach maintains fixation strength without requiring excessive plate thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The plate thickness parameter is reduced from conventional 2.0-3.0 mm to 1.0 mm, combined with optimized hole distribution and positioning. This parameter change reduces bone material removal and soft tissue interference while maintaining adequate mechanical strength through strategic design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3451945B1Mandibular resection template
Publication Date: 2020.10.28 KARL LEIBINGER MEDIZINTECHNIK GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3451945B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3451945B1 patent drawingFigure 2~5
  • EP3451945B1 patent drawingFigure 6~9

AI summary

The invention relates to a mandibular resection template (1) comprising a central component (2) which is prepared for attachment to a segment, for example a symphysis segment of a jawbone, such as a mandible or maxilla. At least two cutting tool guide portions (3) are present at the central component (2), a positioning aid (4) being provided between the two or more cutting tool guide portions (3) in order to obtain a spatially correct orientation of the mandibular resection template (1) with respect to the jawbone.