Modular PIP Joint Implant with Swappable Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint implants lack modularity, sizing options, and variability in joint constraint, limiting their ability to adapt to individual patient needs and requiring multiple surgeries for degree adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A modular implant assembly for the PIP joint that allows for the attachment of different articulation components during surgical procedures, enabling adjustable degrees of articulation constraint without removing the stem components from the bones, providing both semi-constrained and constrained articulation options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current PIP joint implants are used, then the joint can be replaced, but the implants lack modularity and sizing options
Solution Approach 1:
The implant assembly is divided into separate modular components including stem components and articulation components that can be independently selected and assembled. The stem components have distal and proximal portions that can be attached to different articulation components, allowing customization based on patient anatomy and surgical needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem components are designed with universal attachment features that allow them to be combined with multiple different articulation components. The distal and proximal portions of the stem can interface with various articulation types (constrained, semi-constrained, hinge, ball-and-socket) providing multi-functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current PIP joint implants are used, then the joint can be replaced, but there are limited options with respect to degree of joint constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is segmented into stem components and articulation components, where the articulation components provide varying degrees of constraint (constrained, semi-constrained, hinge, ball-and-socket). This segmentation allows selection of the appropriate constraint level without redesigning the entire implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant system provides dynamic adjustability in constraint levels. The modular design allows the degree of joint constraint to be changed by swapping articulation components while keeping the same stem components, enabling adaptation to different functional requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surgeries are performed to adjust implant characteristics, then the joint function can be optimized, but the patient undergoes multiple surgical procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The modular implant design enables dynamic adjustment of constraint levels during a single surgical procedure. The articulation components can be attached or detached from the stem components as needed, allowing the surgeon to optimize joint function without requiring multiple separate surgeries.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant components are designed and prepared in advance with standardized attachment features, allowing for pre-planned configurations. This preliminary preparation enables flexible adjustment during surgery without requiring multiple surgical interventions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for replacing a proximal interphalangeal joint with a modular implant assembly is provided. During a first surgical procedure, a first stem component of the implant assembly having a first articulation component removably attached thereto is implanted in a proximal phalanx bone. A second stem component of the implant assembly having a second articulation component removably attached thereto is implanted in a middle phalanx bone. During a second surgical procedure performed after the first surgical procedure, the first articulation component is removed from the first stem component and the second articulation component is removed from the second stem component. A third articulation component is attached to the first stem component and a fourth articulation component is attached to the second stem component. The second surgical procedure is performed without removing the first stem component from the first bone and without removing the second stem component from the second bone.