Modular Hip Distractor Knee Brace Force Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hip distraction procedures pose a risk of adverse outcomes for patients with preexisting joint pathologies, particularly those with prior total knee replacements, due to traction-related complications affecting the knee joint.
Innovation Solution
A modular hip distractor system that includes a first and second leg support member, a knee brace assembly with mesh-like cuffs, and a crank system to move the foot and knee braces in concert, reducing the force exerted on the knee joint during hip distraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional traction systems with perineal posts are used for hip distraction, then the hip joint can be adequately distracted to provide surgical access, but the knee joint is subjected to excessive forces causing traction-related complications
Solution Approach 1:
The traction force is segmented into two separate application points: one at the foot/ankle region and another at the knee region. By using a foot brace and a knee brace assembly that can be independently positioned and adjusted, the total distraction force is divided, reducing the force burden on any single joint while achieving the required hip distraction
Solution Approach 2:
The knee brace assembly acts as an intermediary structure between the traction system and the patient's body. It provides a controlled interface for force application at the knee region, distributing forces through the soft tissue and bony structures in a manner that protects the knee joint from excessive direct forces while still contributing to hip distraction
2Force
If high traction forces are applied to achieve sufficient hip distraction, then the surgical view is improved, but patients with preexisting joint pathologies experience adverse outcomes
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different qualities of force distribution at different locations: the foot brace provides stable anchorage and primary traction force, while the knee brace assembly provides distributed force application through multiple contact points (cuffs, pads) that are specifically designed to protect vulnerable areas. This localized optimization of force application improves overall reliability without sacrificing distraction effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The knee brace assembly incorporates protective elements (cushions, pads, soft tissue interface components) that are positioned in advance to cushion and distribute forces before they reach vulnerable structures. This preemptive cushioning protects patients with preexisting joint pathologies from adverse outcomes while maintaining the necessary traction force for safe surgical distraction
3Reliability
If a modular leg support system with adjustable braces is used, then patient safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The leg support system is segmented into modular components (foot brace, knee brace assembly with cuffs and pads, adjustment mechanisms) that can be independently configured and adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different patient anatomies and clinical requirements, improving safety through customized force distribution while managing complexity through standardized modular interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The knee brace assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that can provide both traction force application and joint protection functions simultaneously. The same structure serves multiple purposes: distributing forces, protecting soft tissues, accommodating different knee positions, and working with various foot brace configurations. This universality reduces the need for multiple separate components, managing overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular hip distractor system effectively reduces the force required for hip distraction and minimizes the force exerted on the knee joint, thereby decreasing the risk of traction-related complications and improving patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
a crank system configured to move the first foot brace and the first knee brace in concert along the first leg support member
Implementation Method 2
The cuffs can have a mesh-like structure that can come into contact with a patient's skin to prevent slippage of the knee brace as traction is applied to the patient's leg
Data Source
AI summary
A modular hip distractor and methods of using the same are described. The modular hip distractor includes a knee brace assembly having at least one cuff and that is configured to reduce the amount of force applied to the knee joint and lower extremity during a hip distraction procedure.