Segmented Bone Implant Restoring Length and Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for the Lapidus procedure, such as the Lapidus procedure for correcting hallux valgus deformity, face challenges with bone shortening leading to metatarsalgia and limited blood supply, making it difficult to achieve long-term, predictable clinical outcomes due to inadequate bone healing and weight distribution changes.
Innovation Solution
The development of a reamer sleeve and bone reamer assembly with a securement mechanism that allows for precise cutting and insertion of bone implants, along with surgical instruments like bone clamps and saw jigs, to create anatomically shaped bone segments that mimic the natural joint anatomy, enhancing bone integration and healing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a wedge of bone is removed in a biplanar direction at the distal end of the cuneiform to correct hallux valgus deformity, then the deformity is corrected and the great toe is realigned, but the great toe is shortened which shifts weight distribution to the second ray causing metatarsalgia
Solution Approach 1:
The bone implant is divided into multiple segments or portions that can be independently shaped and positioned. The implant includes a first portion and a second portion that can be configured to restore anatomical length while providing the necessary angular correction, allowing the surgeon to address both alignment and length restoration separately through the segmented structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a third dimension by creating a bone implant with complex three-dimensional geometry that cannot be achieved with traditional planar wedges. The implant features curved surfaces, tapered portions, and multi-planar configurations that restore both length and correct alignment simultaneously, moving beyond the two-dimensional wedge approach
2Shape
If a block of bone is inserted into the joint and shaped by the surgeon, then the intermetatarsal angle is corrected, but the excessive processing of the bone makes it difficult to incorporate and heal
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the bone implant have different geometric characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The first portion features a first curvature and the second portion has a second curvature, with varying degrees of processing in different regions. This localized differentiation allows the implant to provide angular correction where needed while maintaining natural bone geometry in other areas to promote healing
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of taking a naturally shaped bone and processing it into an artificial form, the invention reverses the approach by creating an implant that mimics natural bone anatomy from the outset. The implant is designed with anatomically correct shapes and curvatures that match the surrounding bone structures, eliminating the need for extensive post-operative shaping and preserving blood supply for optimal healing
3Ease of manufacture
If cup or cone reamers are used to remove cartilage from the metatarsal-phalangeal joint, then the joint is prepared for fusion, but length is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The bone implant is pre-shaped and pre-configured with the correct anatomical geometry before surgery. The implant includes pre-formed curved surfaces, tapered portions, and dimensional specifications that match the recipient site, eliminating the need for extensive intraoperative shaping and preserving joint length while ensuring proper fit and fusion
Data Source
AI summary
Reamer sleeves, reamer assemblies, and methods of assembling the reamer assemblies are disclosed. The reamer sleeves include a base portion with a top surface and a bottom surface and a securement mechanism extending away from the top surface of the base portion. The securement mechanism includes an opening, at least one engagement member adjacent the opening, and at least one engagement protrusion extending away from the engagement member into the opening. The opening extends through the securement mechanism to the bottom surface of the base portion. The bone reamer assembly including a reamer and a reamer sleeve removably coupled to the reamer. The reamer including a shaft with a first and second end, a cutting member coupled to the second end of the shaft, and a groove near the second end of the shaft. A method of assembling a hard tissue reamer assembly is also disclosed.