Orthopedic Augment Recessed Pockets for Controlled Cement Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic augment designs lack provisions for assisting with cement application, leading to inconsistent and undesirable results during the assembly of orthopedic implants, particularly in revision surgeries where bone loss occurs, and inadequate cementing can cause separation of components.
Innovation Solution
The design of orthopedic augments with recessed pockets and ports that allow for the controlled application of fixation materials, such as cement, ensuring secure attachment to implants by providing access through ports and rims that facilitate uniform distribution across a larger surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional augment designs are used without cementing provisions, then the assembly process is simpler, but the bond strength between augment and implant is insufficient leading to component separation
Solution Approach 1:
The inner surface of the augment is segmented into multiple recessed pockets, each capable of receiving fixation material independently. This segmentation allows the cement to be distributed across multiple localized areas, creating numerous small bonding zones that collectively provide strong attachment between the augment and implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed pockets create a third dimension on the inner surface of the augment, moving from a flat two-dimensional interface to a three-dimensional structured interface. This dimensional change increases the surface area for cement adhesion and provides mechanical interlocking features that enhance bond strength.
2Manufacturing precision
If ad hoc cement application is used, then the application process is faster, but the cement distribution is inconsistent leading to unreliable fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed pockets are pre-formed on the augment before implantation, creating predetermined locations for cement placement. This preliminary action eliminates the need for surgeons to decide ad hoc where to apply cement, ensuring consistent and uniform distribution across all pockets while maintaining a straightforward application process.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed pockets act as intermediaries between the cement and the implant surface, providing controlled pathways for cement flow and distribution. These pockets ensure that cement is evenly distributed across the augment-implant interface without requiring complex application techniques or sacrificing assembly speed.
3Reliability
If the augment and implant are placed together without cement, then the surgical procedure is simpler, but the components may separate after implantation causing particle generation
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed pockets create a porous-like structure on the inner surface of the augment, providing numerous small cavities that can absorb and retain fixation material. This porous structure increases the surface area for bonding and creates mechanical interlocking features that prevent component separation and reduce particle generation.
4Strength
If cement is applied along the edges only, then the application is easier, but the fixation is inadequate leading to potential separation
Solution Approach 1:
The inner surface is divided into multiple recessed pockets distributed across the augment, transforming the cement application from a single continuous edge application to multiple localized pocket fillings. This segmentation allows cement to be applied systematically to each pocket, ensuring comprehensive coverage and strong fixation throughout the entire augment-implant interface.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing orthopedic augments (100) having recessed pockets that receive a fixation material. The orthopedic augments include an outer surface (110) that interfaces with a patient's tissue or bone, and an inner surface (120) that interfaces with an implant, the inner surface comprising a recessed pocket (130) configured to receive a fixation material, a rim (140) around at least a portion of the recessed pocket, and a port (150) in the rim, wherein the recessed pocket extends along the inner surface in at least a direction laterally from the port.