Multifunctional Broach Head for Intramedullary Stem Implantation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopaedic arthroplasty procedures for intramedullary stem implantation are complex and time-consuming, involving multiple steps and numerous tool components.
Innovation Solution
A detachable broach head that can be used for broaching, as a trial stem, and as the actual implant stem, featuring a threaded socket, ball joint, and osteo anchoring features, allowing for reduced tool components and streamlined surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components (broach, trial stem, implant stem) are used for intramedullary stem implantation, then the surgical procedure can be completed with standardized specialized tools, but the complexity of the procedure and the time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The broach head is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the broaching tool and the final implant stem. The head comprises broaching teeth for material removal and osteo anchoring features for bone fixation, allowing a single component to replace the traditional sequence of separate broach and implant stem components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the broaching function and the implant function into a single integrated component. The broach head combines cutting teeth for bone removal with anchoring features for secure fixation, eliminating the need for separate trial stems and implant stems that were traditionally required
2Reliability
If multiple separate components (broach, trial stem, implant stem) are used for intramedullary stem implantation, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the surgical time and number of steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The broach head is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the broaching tool and the final implant stem. The head comprises broaching teeth for material removal and osteo anchoring features for bone fixation, allowing a single component to replace the traditional sequence of separate broach and implant stem components
Solution Approach 2:
The broach head performs the broaching action first, creating the intramedullary cavity, and then remains in place as the final implant. This eliminates the need for subsequent steps of inserting trial stems and then removing them to insert the final implant, significantly reducing surgical time
3Adaptability or versatility
If a detachable broach head design is used, then the head can be separated and used as trial implant stem, but the attachment and detachment mechanisms add structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The broach is divided into separable components: a handle with rod and a detachable head. The head can be removed from the rod via a threaded socket mechanism, allowing the head to be used independently as a trial stem or final implant while the rod and handle can be reused with different heads
4Reliability
If the broach head has anchor features for implant fixation, then the implant function is improved, but the broaching function may be adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The broach head has different local zones with different functions: the outer surface has broaching teeth for cutting bone, while the inner surface has osteo anchoring features for bone fixation. The anchoring features are positioned between the teeth and do not protrude radially beyond the tooth tips, so they do not interfere with the cutting action during broaching but provide fixation when the head is used as an implant
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 multifunctional broach head reduces the complexity and time required for orthopaedic arthroplasty procedures by eliminating the need for separate trial and implant stems, enhancing versatility and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The head has a threaded socket to receive a male threaded end of a rod of the broach for attachment/detachment
Implementation Method 2
the head having a socket for a ball joint
Implementation Method 3
the head is configured for friction fitting in an intramedullary cavity so that it is suitable for use as a trial stem
Data Source
AI summary
A broach (1) has a handle and a rod (4), and a detachable head (80, 100) which is configured for fitting in an intramedullary cavity so that it can be used as a trial implant or a permanent implant. The head has an articulating ball socket (87, 107) for connecting to a ball of a proximal implant component for the purposes of a trial during surgery or as a permanent implant. The fastener to attach the broach head to the rod is a threaded socket (86, 106) for threaded engagement with the distal end of the rod. The broach head may have features (120) which do not extend radially as much as the broaching teeth (103) to aid fixation when used as a permanent implant. In another example the head is a trial stem without broaching teeth.