Metacarpal Bone Stabilization Device With Partial Threading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for stabilizing a metacarpal bone during healing, such as using a non-threaded metal nail, face issues like migration causing soft tissue damage and the need for a second surgery for removal, while screw insertion is hindered by high torque requirements and potential bone damage.
Innovation Solution
A device with threads along 30% or less of its length, featuring a driving head, grooves, and an annular ring to reduce torque and prevent migration, allowing for secure anchoring within the bone without requiring a second surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-threaded smooth metal nail is used to stabilize the metacarpal bone, then the bone can be held in position during healing, but the nail can migrate through the bone and cause soft tissue damage requiring a second surgery for removal
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies local quality by having threads only on a portion of its length (30% or less), specifically positioned to engage with the bone walls in the opening. This localized threading provides anchoring capability exactly where needed to prevent migration, while the remaining smooth portion allows for proper insertion and positioning without causing unnecessary bone damage or migration.
2Reliability
If a screw is inserted into the metacarpal bone to stabilize it, then the bone can be anchored, but the high torque required can damage the delicate metacarpal bone or the screw driving head
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies partial action by providing threads on only a portion (30% or less) of its length rather than along the entire length. This partial threading provides sufficient anchoring capability to secure the device in the bone while significantly reducing the torque required for insertion compared to a fully threaded screw, thereby preventing damage to both the delicate metacarpal bone and the driving head.
3Reliability
If a fully threaded screw is used to anchor the bone, then migration is prevented, but the insertion process becomes lengthy and risks bone damage due to high torque requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses partial threading (30% or less of the length) which provides adequate anchoring to prevent migration while dramatically reducing the insertion time and torque requirements compared to full threading, thus resolving the time-loss contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the parameter of thread coverage from 100% (fully threaded screw) to 30% or less, which optimizes the balance between anchoring capability and insertion ease, reducing both time and risk while maintaining reliability.
4Reliability
If current screws are used for intramedullary placement, then anchoring is provided, but they are not long enough and not designed specifically for this application
Solution Approach 1:
The device is specifically adapted for metacarpal bone by applying local quality through selective threading placement and limited thread coverage, making it optimized for this specific application rather than being a generic screw design.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions in one structure: it provides anchoring through threads, allows for proper insertion through the smooth portion, and maintains appropriate length for intramedullary placement in metacarpal bones, making it a versatile solution specifically designed for this application.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for stabilizing a broken bone while it heals is disclosed. The device is preferably a metal rod that has a threaded portion. The device is positioned into a bone, such as a metacarpal bone, by forming an opening in the bone suitable for receiving the device, and inserting it into the opening wherein the threaded portion retains the device in position.