Modular Elevation Apparatus for Ankle Surgery Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ankle distraction methods in surgical procedures often impair circumferential access to the foot and ankle due to direct restraint, limiting the surgeon's ability to operate effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular elevation apparatus and method that secures the patient's ankle with a strap attached to a support frame, applying pressure to the underside of the knee using a manual distractor, allowing for improved access by positioning the leg at various angles relative to the operating table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If direct restraint and pressure application to the ankle is used for distraction, then distraction force is applied, but circumferential access to the foot and ankle is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distractor device as an intermediary mechanism between the surgeon's control and the patient's anatomy. The distractor applies distraction force to the tibia proximal to the ankle joint, rather than directly to the ankle, thereby maintaining circumferential access to the surgical site while still achieving the desired distraction effect through mechanical leverage and force transmission through the bone structure
2Ease of operation
If simple strap restraint with knee pressure is used, then complete access to the ankle is maintained, but the mechanism for applying distraction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The distractor device is designed with universal applicability to work with various surgical procedures including ankle arthroscopy, fracture treatments, and other lower extremity surgeries. The device can be configured with different attachment mechanisms and distraction force application points, allowing it to adapt to different surgical requirements while maintaining the benefit of complete ankle access through its proximal distraction mechanism
3Ease of operation
If modular elevation apparatus with positioning capability is used, then access and positioning are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distractor device is divided into modular segments including a distal attachment portion, a distractor mechanism portion, and a proximal contact portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling easy assembly and adjustment. The modular design provides positioning capability and surgical access without requiring an overly complex integrated structure, as each segment can be independently configured and adjusted
Data Source
AI summary
An elevation apparatus, system and method for elevating the patient's limb when using a manual distractor unit is mounted upon a support frame attached to an operating table side rail. A foot strap is attached to the extension apparatus and to the patient's ankle with a patient's knee support pad, extending from the distractor unit, is positioned under the patient's knee to provide traction to the patient's ankle, which is secured to the support frame. The extension apparatus may be formed with a plurality of attachment points for the foot strap so as to provide improved access to the ankle area with advantages of allowing additional types of procedures a surgeon may perform on the patient and/or the ability of the surgeon to access the ankle area and lower leg.