Segmented Internal Fixation Implant with Outer Covering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current internal fixation devices for long bones, craniomaxiofacial, and spinal areas face limitations in providing enhanced stability and adaptability to accommodate varying anatomical needs, despite advancements in materials and techniques.
Innovation Solution
A medical implant with a substrate and outer covering design featuring discrete connection portions and through-openings, allowing for secure fixation and potential medicament infusion, constructed from biocompatible materials like metals, ceramics, or composites, with adjustable features to accommodate different bone structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional metallic implants are used for internal fixation, then structural strength is maintained, but adaptability to varying anatomical needs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is divided into multiple discrete connection portions along the substrate, each capable of independent adjustment. This segmentation allows the implant to be customized to fit varying anatomical configurations while maintaining overall structural integrity through the connecting members that join these segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant incorporates adjustable connection portions with through-openings that allow dynamic configuration during surgery. The connecting members can be positioned at different locations and orientations, enabling the implant to adapt to specific anatomical requirements while maintaining structural strength through proper mechanical engagement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If discrete connection portions with through-openings are incorporated, then adaptability and medicament infusion capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The through-openings in the connection portions serve multiple functions: they allow for adjustable positioning of connecting members to achieve adaptability, and simultaneously provide pathways for medicament infusion. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same structural feature accomplishes multiple objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection portions are designed with through-openings that create a porous-like structure, enabling medicament infusion capability. This approach integrates therapeutic function into the structural components, allowing drug delivery without adding separate complex infusion systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If outer covering extends around through-openings and encompasses connecting members, then protection and reduced infection risk are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outer covering is designed as a continuous protective layer that extends around the through-openings and encompasses the connecting members. This shell-like structure provides protection against infection by creating a barrier, while its flexible design allows it to conform to the complex geometry of the implant components, facilitating manufacturing through forming processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical implant according to the present invention includes a substrate having a plurality of discrete connection portions. Each connection portion has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a through-opening extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. A connecting member extends between each connection portion and connects adjacent connecting portions to each other. At least one of the plurality of connection portions has a first width and at least one of the connecting members has a second width, different from the first width. An outer covering substantially encompasses the substrate. The outer covering extends around the through-openings and encompasses the connecting member.