Modular Scapula Repair Device for Variable Anatomy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repairing acromial and scapular fractures after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty are inadequate due to the highly variable anatomy of the scapula, leading to unpredictable healing rates and poor functional outcomes, with limited available solutions for open reduction and internal fixation.
Innovation Solution
A modular scapula repair device featuring contoured plates with modular hooks and fixation elements that can be securely attached to the scapula, allowing for customizable placement and application of compression forces to facilitate fracture healing, accommodating various fracture types and anatomical variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If straight/noncontoured plates with locking screws are used for ORIF, then the fracture can be fixed, but the highly variable scapular anatomy requires bending plates to fit, increasing surgical complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs contoured plates with pre-formed curves and shapes that match the natural anatomy of the scapula and acromion. These anatomically contoured plates eliminate the need for intraoperative bending and customization, directly resolving the contradiction by providing ready-to-use devices that fit variable scapular anatomy while maintaining fixation stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops a universal plate system with multiple pre-configured contours and attachment options that can accommodate various scapular anatomies and fracture types. This multi-functional plate family allows a single system to address diverse anatomical variations without requiring custom bending procedures for each patient
2Reliability
If immobilization in a sling is used to treat fractures, then healing can occur, but the rate of healing is unpredictable and functional recovery is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies ORIF with anatomically contoured plates and locking screws to stabilize the fracture immediately at the time of injury, creating optimal conditions for healing before rehabilitation begins. This preliminary stabilization allows subsequent early mobilization and functional recovery, rather than waiting for spontaneous healing in immobilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical immobilization system (sling) with an active internal fixation system (contoured plates with locking screws) that provides stable mechanical support. This substitution enables controlled motion and earlier functional recovery while ensuring reliable fracture healing
3Shape
If contoured plates are used to match scapular anatomy, then anatomical fit is improved, but the number of available contoured plate options is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the plate system into multiple modular components with different contours, lengths, and attachment configurations. This segmentation creates a comprehensive family of contoured plates that can be selected and combined to match various scapular anatomies and fracture patterns, expanding adaptability while maintaining anatomical fit
Data Source
AI summary
A kit including (1) a plate configured to be secured to a scapular spine with a first end of the plate near a trigonum and a second end of the plate near an acromion; (2) a first hook including a mount, a first hook portion extending from the mount in a first direction, a spacer extending from the first hook portion in a transverse direction, and a second hook portion extending from an opposite end of the spacer in the first direction, the first hook adapted to extend around a lateral end of the acromion when fixed to the second end of the plate; and (3) a second hook including a mount, a curved portion curving away from the mount, and a hook portion at an opposite end of the curved portion, the second hook adapted to extend around the trigonum when fixed to the first end of the plate.