Multi-Use Tool for Acetabular Prosthesis Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for positioning and removing acetabular prostheses, such as acetabular shells and liners, lack versatility and efficiency, particularly in revision procedures where alignment and secure fixation are critical, and existing tools may cause damage or require multiple instruments.

Innovation Solution

A multi-use tool with a handle and annular design featuring anti-rotation tabs, non-metallic buffer members, and a quick connect mechanism that can engage and align acetabular shells and liners for both insertion and removal, ensuring secure positioning and minimizing wear and damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate instruments are used for positioning and removing acetabular components, then each function can be performed with dedicated tools, but the number of instruments increases and procedural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixationVSAvoidnumber of instruments
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-use tool integrates multiple functions into a single instrument: the annular member with engaging tabs can position the acetabular shell, the same tool can insert the bearing liner, and the tool can also remove the liner during revision procedures. This eliminates the need for multiple separate instruments while maintaining secure fixation through the quick connect mechanism and engaging features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If a single multi-use tool is used for multiple functions, then the number of instruments is reduced and efficiency improves, but the tool must accommodate multiple functions which may increase design complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocedural efficiencyVSAvoidtool design
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool achieves multi-functionality through a standardized annular member design that can engage with different acetabular components (shell and liner) using the same basic structure. The quick connect mechanism allows rapid attachment and detachment of handles for different functions without changing the core tool design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool is divided into modular components: a standardized annular member that provides the core positioning and engaging functions, and interchangeable handles or attachments that provide specific functions (insertion, removal). This segmentation allows the tool to perform multiple functions while keeping each component relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If existing tools are used for liner insertion and removal, then standard procedures can be followed, but the tools may cause damage to components or generate wear debris

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent integrityVSAvoidwear debris
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-use tool acts as an intermediary between the surgical instrument and the acetabular components. The annular member with engaging tabs provides a controlled interface that distributes forces evenly during insertion and removal, preventing direct contact that could cause damage or generate wear debris. The quick connect mechanism also serves as an intermediary that allows controlled engagement and disengagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2953586B1Apparatus for positioning a prosthesis
Publication Date: 2020.04.08 BIOMET MFG LLC
  • EP2953586B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP2953586B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP2953586B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

According to various embodiments, a multi-use tool may include a member having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface can engage at least one of a shell and/or bearing liner for insertion thereof. The second surface may engage at least one of a shell and/or bearing liner for removal thereof.