Modular Radial Head Implant with Polyethylene Plug
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radial head implants, particularly metallic ones, face challenges in restoring appropriate anatomic alignments and stabilizing the elbow joint due to disparities in dimensions, leading to difficulties in maintaining the correct relationship between the capitellum and the proximal shaft of the radius, especially in cases of unreconstructable fractures.
Innovation Solution
A modular orthopedic implant apparatus comprising a biocompatible metal body with a cylindrical shape, a concave upper surface, and a cylindrical plug made of a distinct non-metal material, such as polyethylene, which allows for flexible attachment to the radius bone via stems, enabling better alignment and load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metallic radial head implants are used, then strength and stress resistance are improved, but anatomic alignment and dimensional accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a metal stem (providing strength and stress resistance) with a polyethylene head (providing anatomic precision and articulation). This composite approach allows each material to contribute its advantageous properties: the metal stem resists compressive stresses while the polyethylene head restores accurate anatomic alignment between the capitellum and radial shaft.
Solution Approach 2:
The radial head implant is divided into distinct segments: a metal stem portion and a polyethylene head portion. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component for its specific function - the stem for mechanical strength and the head for anatomic precision - while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Ease of manufacture
If silicone radial head prostheses are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but stress resistance and functional utility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from entirely silicone prostheses to a composite metal-polyethylene construction. The metal stem provides the necessary stress resistance and structural strength, while the polyethylene head maintains ease of manufacture through conventional molding techniques. This hybrid approach eliminates the limitations of pure silicone while preserving manufacturing advantages.
3Strength
If single-piece metal radial heads are used, then strength is improved, but adaptability to different fracture patterns deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is segmented into a metal stem and polyethylene head that can be manufactured separately and assembled. This modularity provides adaptability to different fracture patterns and patient anatomies while maintaining the strength benefits of metal construction. The separate components allow for customization of dimensions and configurations to match specific patient requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic implant apparatus, said apparatus comprising: a body, said body having a generally cylindrical shape and comprising a first material, a flat bottom surface, a concave upper surface disposed opposite said bottom surface, and a longitudinal axis disposed through the center of said body; a cylindrical bore, said bore disposed along said longitudinal axis through said top surface of said body; cylindrical plug, said plug comprising a second material and disposed within said bore of said body; and at least one stem, said at least one stem connected to said bottom surface of said body.