Reversible Bone Coupling Device for Adjustable Hammertoe Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bone coupling implants lack adjustability and reversibility, making them inadequate for flexible hammertoe deformities that may progress to fixed deformities, requiring critical placement and limiting post-implantation flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A reversible bone coupling device comprising a first and second component with elongated stem portions and a connector, featuring a reversibly engaging locking mechanism that allows incremental locking and disengagement, enabling adjustable fusion of bone pieces and accommodating various bone sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current bone coupling implants are used, then the bones are coupled together, but the implant lacks adjustability and reversibility after initial implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is divided into two separate components: a first component with a stem and locking mechanism inserted into the first bone, and a second component with a stem and connector inserted into the second bone. The connector can be engaged or disengaged from the first component, allowing adjustment or removal of the coupling angle without requiring removal of the entire implant system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism includes a connector that can be reversibly engaged or disengaged from the first component. This dynamic feature allows the coupling angle between bones to be adjusted after initial implantation by engaging the connector at different positions, or to be completely removed if revision is needed, providing post-implantation flexibility.
2Reliability
If critical placement is required for current implants, then the implant provides stable coupling, but there is no adjustability following initial implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The implant system is segmented into a first component that remains permanently anchored in the first bone and a second component that can be adjusted or removed. The connector on the second component can be engaged or disengaged from the first component, allowing modification of the coupling configuration without compromising the stable anchoring of the first component.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates a reversible connector that can be engaged or disengaged after initial implantation. This allows the coupling angle to be adjusted by repositioning the connector on the first component, or allows complete removal of the second component if revision surgery is needed, while maintaining reliable bone coupling throughout.
3Reliability
If fixed deformities require fusion procedures, then the deformity is corrected, but the patient loses joint flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The implant provides a dynamic solution by allowing the connector to be engaged or disengaged from the first component. For flexible deformities, the connector can remain disengaged to preserve joint motion. For progressive deformities requiring correction, the connector can be engaged at specific positions to achieve the desired coupling angle, or completely removed if fusion is ultimately required, providing a staged treatment approach.
Data Source
AI summary
A reversible bone coupling device including a first component having a first elongated stem portion for insertion from a first end longitudinally into a surface of a first bone piece, and a second component having a second elongated stem portion for insertion from a second end longitudinally into a surface of a second bone piece, and a connector extending from a second top for coupling with the first component and reversibly locking therein.