Modular Femoral Neck Plate Tip With Intraoperative Fit Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current plate-based prophylactic stabilization methods for the femoral neck are economically infeasible due to anatomical variations and limited intraoperative design opportunities, leading to increased stress points and fracture risks, especially in geriatric patients.
Innovation Solution
A modular extension plate system with a connection and anchoring portion that allows for adjustable length and curvature to fit the femoral neck, featuring a locking mechanism for secure attachment to a bone plate, enabling intraoperative design and modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pre-shaped plates are used for prophylactic stabilization of the femoral neck, then plate fit to the bone is optimized, but the high degree of anatomical variations makes this economically infeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is divided into multiple modular segments that can be selectively assembled. Each segment can be independently manufactured using standard processes, then combined during surgery to create a custom-fit plate. This segmentation allows standard manufacturing to achieve customized results, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate system transitions from a static, pre-shaped design to a dynamic, intraoperatively configurable system. The modular components can be assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured during surgery to match the patient's specific anatomy. This dynamic approach enables customization without requiring expensive pre-shaped plates for each anatomical variation.
2Reliability
If extended plate length is used to follow the shape of the vastus ridge with lateral bend and anterior external twist, then prophylactic stabilization is achieved, but anatomical variations and limited intraoperative design opportunities make this problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The extended plate is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently positioned and oriented. Each segment can be adjusted to follow the specific contours of the vastus ridge and accommodate lateral bends and anterior external twists. This segmentation provides both the extended length needed for stabilization and the adaptability to match individual patient anatomy during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular plate system serves multiple functions: it provides extended length for prophylactic stabilization, accommodates various anatomical configurations through modular assembly, and allows intraoperative design adjustments. The same modular components can be configured for different anatomical variations, providing universal applicability across diverse patient populations.
3Strength
If locking mechanism is added to secure extension plate to bone plate, then attachment stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the modular connection interfaces of the plate segments. The same interfaces that allow modular assembly also incorporate locking features, eliminating the need for separate locking components. This integration provides strong attachment stability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-contained within the modular segments, with each segment having built-in locking features that engage automatically during assembly. This self-service approach provides secure attachment without requiring additional complex locking hardware or intricate assembly procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An extension plate, attachable to a bone plate and a bone, includes a body having a connection portion connectable to a bone plate and an anchoring portion attachable to a bone. The connection portion has a top surface configured to face away from a bone and a bottom surface configured to face toward the bone. The bottom surface of the connection portion has a first shelf extending substantially perpendicular from the bottom surface at a first side of the bottom surface and a second shelf extending substantially perpendicular from the bottom surface at a second side of the bottom surface. The second shelf includes a rail extending toward the first shelf, such that the second shelf defines an undercut between the rail and the bottom surface.