Outer Ear Implant Selection Kits for Contralateral Ear Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an effective solution to select an ear implant that closely matches a patient's contralateral ear in shape, size, and appearance for surgical reconstruction, as existing methods lack precision in matching the individual's ear anatomy.
Innovation Solution
A set of contour and gradation templates, three-dimensional ear implant models, and selection kits are used to facilitate the selection of an ear implant by comparing the templates and models to the contralateral ear, allowing for precise matching of the implant's shape, size, and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional ear implant selection methods are used, then the selection process is simple, but the precision of matching the contralateral ear shape and size is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses template systems that are copies or representations of actual ear implant shapes and sizes. These templates allow surgeons to visually compare and select the best match for the patient's contralateral ear without requiring complex digital modeling or measurement devices, thus improving matching precision while keeping the system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The selection system is segmented into multiple components including various template types (ear implant templates, contralateral ear templates), sizing guides, and selection forms. This segmentation allows the complex task of ear implant selection to be broken down into manageable steps, improving precision through systematic evaluation while organizing the complexity into structured components.
2Shape
If custom-made ear implants are created for each patient, then the aesthetic matching is improved, but the manufacturing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides a systematic preliminary selection process using templates and sizing guides that allow the appropriate implant to be selected before manufacturing or implantation. This preliminary action ensures the correct shape and size are chosen in advance, improving aesthetic matching while avoiding the need for complex custom manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The template system serves multiple functions: it acts as a selection guide, a sizing reference, and a planning tool all in one. This multi-functionality allows the same set of standardized implants to be effectively customized for each patient through proper selection, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving good aesthetic results.
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 solution enables accurate selection of an ear implant that provides improved ear symmetry and projection, matching the appearance of the contralateral ear, using customizable and one-piece implants made of materials like sintered polyethylene.
Implementation Method 1
Due to its porous structure, the material can promote revascularization at the implantation site
Data Source
AI summary
An ear implant selection kit is described including a set of semi-transparent or transparent contour templates, a separate set of gradation templates, and a set of three-dimensional ear implant models, all of which may be used to select an ear implant out of a set of implants that best matches the appearance of a contralateral ear of an individual. Related ear implant systems and methods are also described.