Orthopedic Joint Measurement Device with Alignment Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic joint replacement surgeries lack precise measurement tools to ensure optimal implantation and long-term performance, leading to variations in patient outcomes and limited post-operative data for improving joint design and wear analysis.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic measurement system with a propagation tuned oscillator (PTO) and zero-crossing receiver is used to measure physical parameters like force and pressure in real-time, providing accurate data for balancing and aligning artificial joints during surgery and monitoring their performance post-operatively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized orthopedic joint replacement tools and procedures are used to meet general population needs, then device versatility and ease of manufacture are improved, but measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate due to inability to account for individual patient variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing alignment tools with pre-defined angular relationships (e.g., 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees) that allow surgeons to pre-plan and execute precise joint alignment. The tools include pre-formed alignment surfaces and guides that establish correct positioning before implantation, enabling customization for individual patient anatomy while maintaining manufacturing standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by providing multiple alignment tools with different angular parameters (15°, 30°, 45°) and adjustable components that can be selected and combined based on individual patient requirements. This allows precise control of joint alignment parameters while using standardized tool components that can be manufactured generally.
2Adaptability or versatility
If surgeon skill is relied upon to adapt and fit replacement joints to specific patient circumstances, then adaptability to individual patients is improved, but measurement precision and consistency deteriorate due to lack of objective measurement data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating measurement capabilities that provide objective data on joint alignment and implant positioning. The system includes tools with indicators, gauges, and measurement features that give real-time feedback to the surgeon about alignment accuracy, allowing for precise adjustments based on measured rather than estimated parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces reliance on surgeon skill and subjective judgment with mechanical alignment tools that physically guide and constrain positioning. The tools include mechanical guides, alignment surfaces, and positioning fixtures that objectively enforce correct alignment geometry, substituting human variability with precise mechanical constraints.
3Device complexity
If post-operative monitoring is limited, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information increases due to lack of data for improving joint design and wear analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by incorporating measurement and monitoring capabilities directly into the implant components themselves. The implant includes integrated sensors, indicators, or measurement features that automatically track performance parameters such as wear, positioning, and loading without requiring external monitoring equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity while enabling continuous data collection.
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement device suitable to measure a load applied by the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement device can be a prosthetic component having an articular surface for measuring parameters of a joint in extension or flexion. A first and second support structure forms an enclosure having load-bearing surfaces. The first support structure includes at least one alignment feature extending from a surface. The second support structure includes a corresponding opening for receiving the alignment feature. The first and second support structures include a peripheral channel and corresponding flange to support sealing of the enclosure. Interior to the enclosure is the measurement system. The alignment feature couples through and aligns a first load plate, a sensor array, and a second load plate to surfaces of the first and second support structures. The sensor array is coupled to electronic circuitry in the enclosure via a unitary circuit board.