Monoplanar Joint Stabilizer with Hinged Distraction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices for fixing and distracting joint dislocations and fractures, particularly at the proximal interphalangeal joint, are bulky, imprecise, and do not allow for natural flexion and extension, limiting anatomic mobilization and patient tolerance.
Innovation Solution
A monoplanar device with a hinged design based on the native joint axis, featuring a first and second shaft, clamps, and a distraction screw, allowing controlled distraction and fixation with minimal bulk, enabling precise movement around a single axis of rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing medical devices are used for fixation and distraction, then joint stabilization is achieved, but the devices are bulky and imprecise with respect to distraction control
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate modular components including a first shaft, second shaft, clamps, and distraction mechanism that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows for precise distraction control while minimizing overall device bulk through selective placement of functional elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional multi-planar external fixators to a monoplanar configuration where all critical components operate within a single plane. This dimensional simplification reduces device bulk while maintaining distraction precision through the monoplanar alignment of shafts, clamps, and distraction vectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing fixation devices are used, then bone stabilization is achieved, but natural flexion and extension are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a dynamic hinge joint that enables controlled flexion and extension motion around a single axis. This hinge mechanism allows the construct to adapt to natural joint movement while maintaining stabilization, providing anatomic mobilization without excessive complexity through a single-degree-of-freedom design.
3Ease of operation
If traditional external fixators are used, then joint fixation is achieved, but patient tolerance is reduced due to bulk
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary bulk from traditional external fixator designs by using a monoplanar configuration with minimized shaft profiles and streamlined component arrangements. This reduction in device volume directly improves patient tolerance while maintaining fixation functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides improved anatomic mobilization, precision, stability, and control over distraction, enhancing patient tolerance and healing outcomes by allowing natural joint motion with minimal bulk.
Implementation Method 1
The distraction screw is disposed between the threaded partial bore and the recess such that the distraction screw is threadedly engaged with the threaded partial bore
Implementation Method 2
The first engagement feature cooperates with the second engagement feature to form a hinge joint with a single axis of rotation connecting the first shaft to the second shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A monoplanar device for stabilizing and distracting an anatomical joint is disclosed including first and second shafts having engagement features that form a hinge joint with a single axis of rotation, the shafts being constrained by the hinge joint to move relative to one another only around the single axis of the hinge joint. The shafts and the hinge joint are disposed in a single plane with the single axis being about orthogonal thereto. A first clamp having a recess and a pin hole is slidingly disposed on the first shaft, and a second clamp having a pin hole is slidingly disposed on the second shaft. The pin holes are arranged to receive bone pins for insertion into bones adjacent to the anatomical joint. A distraction screw disposed between a threaded partial bore of the first shaft and the recess rotates to advance the first clamp along the first shaft.