Radial Head Trialing Device Stem and Interchangeable Head Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the proper size and shape of a radial head prosthesis for optimal fit in radial head replacement procedures is challenging due to the variability in patient anatomy, and existing methods lack efficient tools for selecting and exchanging trial components during the implantation process.
Innovation Solution
A radial head trialing device comprising a stem component with a standardized attachment portion and variously sized and shaped head components that connect via a snap-fit, non-rotatable mechanism, allowing for secure attachment and easy interchangeability, along with a specialized instrument for removing trial head components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If variously sized and shaped head components are interchangeably attached to the stem component, then the ability to determine optimal prosthesis size and shape is improved, but the complexity of the trialing device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radial head prosthesis is divided into two separate components: a stem component and a head component. The stem component includes a stem shaft portion and a stem attachment portion, while the head component can be variously sized and shaped. This segmentation allows the head component to be interchangeably attached to the stem component, enabling selection of optimal prosthesis size and shape without replacing the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem attachment portion is designed with a standardized interface that can universally accept multiple different head components of varying sizes and shapes. This universal connection mechanism allows a single stem component to work with multiple head components, providing versatility in prosthesis selection while avoiding the need for multiple complete prosthesis sets.
2Ease of operation
If a snap-fit connection is used between the stem component and head component, then the ease of attaching and detaching trial head components is improved, but the reliability of the connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stem attachment portion includes a boss structure with a spherical portion that preliminarily engages with a corresponding recess in the head component. This preliminary engagement guides the head component into proper alignment and positioning before final attachment, ensuring that the snap-fit connection is both easy to make and reliable in maintaining the intended configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The boss structure acts as an intermediary element between the stem shaft portion and the head component. It provides a transition zone that facilitates the snap-fit connection while maintaining structural integrity, allowing easy attachment and detachment while preserving connection reliability through its geometric design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A radial head trial device (700) for replacement of proximal radial head includes a stem component (702) having a centre longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a head component (704) axially and removably attachable to the stem component, wherein the head component is interchangeable with a selection of other head components each axially and removably attachable to the stem component, and anti-rotation feature (728), and a recess (762), wherein the anti-rotation feature is structured to be received in the recess to prohibit rotation of the head component relative to the stem component.