Modular Prosthetic Device with Reference Markers for Anatomical Fit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic joint replacement systems, such as total knee arthroplasty, face challenges in achieving optimal fit due to fixed geometry and limited size options, and lack non-invasive methods for monitoring implant wear and position over time.
Innovation Solution
A modular prosthetic device with components featuring information-providing elements, such as optical or signal-emitting markers, that allow for precise positioning and non-invasive monitoring using detection devices and computing systems to determine and adjust the geometric relationships between components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed-geometry femoral and tibial components are used, then manufacturing and implantation are simplified, but the ability to achieve optimal fit for each patient's unique anatomy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic device is divided into multiple modular components including the femoral component, tibial component, and insert, each with selectable geometries and configurations. This segmentation allows surgeons to mix and match components to achieve optimal fit for each patient's unique anatomy while maintaining manageable manufacturing processes for each individual component.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from fixed-geometry implants to a dynamic selection process where component geometry, size, and configuration can be varied to match patient-specific anatomical requirements. The modular architecture enables adaptation to different anatomical variations without requiring completely custom-designed implants for each patient.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used to increase flexibility and customization, then adaptability to patient anatomy improves, but insertion accuracy and relative placement precision become more difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
Reference features are pre-integrated into each modular component during manufacturing, establishing predetermined geometric relationships between components. During implantation, these pre-established reference features guide the assembly process and ensure accurate relative placement without requiring complex intraoperative measurement and adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Reference features act as intermediary elements between modular components, providing a standardized interface that ensures precise geometric relationships. These reference features serve as mediators that translate the variability of modular component selection into consistent, accurate final placements regardless of which specific components are chosen.
3Loss of information
If conventional implants without monitoring features are used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to non-invasively monitor implant wear and position over time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthetic components incorporate self-monitoring capabilities through integrated reference features that automatically provide information about implant position, orientation, and wear patterns. These features enable the implant to 'report' its own status without requiring external sensing equipment or invasive procedures, allowing continuous non-invasive monitoring of implant condition over time.
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthetic device includes one or more components configured to be disposed in a joint. The component includes at least one feature configured to provide information about the component. The information can be used to determine or create the relationship between the component and the joint and/or other components. This relationship may be used to evaluate and/or modify the expected performance of the prosthetic device and assist in determining the optimal relationship between one or more components and a patient's anatomy.