Modular Acetabular Inserter With Interchangeable Prosthesis Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical inserters for orthopedic prostheses are difficult to clean and sterilize, often cause tissue trauma, require multiple devices for different prostheses, and struggle with precise angular orientation and positioning of implants, especially in limited access surgical sites.
Innovation Solution
A modular, easily disassembleable acetabular inserter with an interchangeable interface and one-way locking mechanism that allows for controlled orientation and secure locking of implants, facilitating cleaning and sterilization while minimizing the number of pieces and reducing the risk of parts being lost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the inserter uses a complex mechanical design to engage different prostheses, then the adaptability to different prostheses is improved, but the ease of cleaning and sterilization deteriorates due to crevices and recesses
Solution Approach 1:
The inserter is divided into modular components including a removable prosthesis-engaging interface, a drive train, and a handle. The interface can be detached and replaced without removing the entire inserter, allowing for easy cleaning of all surfaces while maintaining adaptability to different prosthesis types through interface interchangeability.
Solution Approach 2:
A single inserter body is designed to accommodate multiple prosthesis types through interchangeable interfaces. The universal drive train and housing can engage with different prosthesis geometries (e.g., cups, domes, hemispheres) by simply changing the interface component, eliminating the need for multiple specialized inserters.
2Device complexity
If the inserter is designed as a single integrated unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation for positioning and orientation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inserter features a segmented design where the prosthesis-engaging interface is removable and replaceable. This allows the surgeon to quickly change interfaces without disassembling the entire device, maintaining simplicity while enabling precise positioning for different prosthesis types through specialized interface geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive train incorporates a ratchet mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the prosthesis position during insertion. The ratchet permits controlled advancement and locking at specific angular orientations, enabling precise positioning while maintaining a simple overall device structure.
3Device complexity
If the inserter uses a fixed interface design, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different prosthesis types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented as a separate, removable component that can be exchanged without affecting the rest of the inserter. Each interface is designed with specific geometries to engage different prosthesis types, maintaining simple individual interface designs while achieving overall system versatility through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different interfaces incorporate varying geometric parameters (thread pitches, engagement angles, contact surfaces) to accommodate different prosthesis specifications. By changing the interface component, the inserter adapts to different prosthesis parameters without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire device.
4Ease of manufacture
If the inserter allows easy disassembly for cleaning, then the ease of cleaning is improved, but the reliability of maintaining assembly integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inserter employs segmented components connected through robust joining mechanisms. The removable interface connects via a secure mounting structure that allows straightforward detachment for cleaning while ensuring reliable reassembly with proper alignment features and locking mechanisms that prevent part loss.
Solution Approach 2:
A retention mechanism acts as an intermediary between the interface and drive train, providing a controlled disengagement point. This intermediary feature enables easy separation for cleaning while maintaining assembly integrity through positive locking features that prevent accidental separation during use.
Data Source
AI summary
An acetabular inserter (10) aids a surgeon in controlling the installation of an acetabular cup prosthesis (11) having a central, female aperture (13). The inserter includes an inserter head (20), a housing (12) and a locking mechanism. The housing (12) is attached to the inserter head, the housing enclosing a drive train (14) having, at a far end (134), a prosthesis engaging thread (124), and at the opposite end (42′), a handle (20) which facilitates turning of the drive train by the operator. The locking mechanism is associated with the housing which selectively locks the drive train, and thus the prosthesis, in position. The opposite end (42′) of the drive train has a latch device which enables quick removal from the housing for cleaning and sterilization.