Segmented Suture Anchor for Minimally Invasive Bone Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for attaching soft tissue to bone during closed surgical procedures face challenges due to space constraints, making it difficult and time-consuming to anchor sutures effectively in small surgical spaces.
Innovation Solution
A surgical fastening device comprising a plurality of rigid anchor segments linked by a flexible member that transitions from a flexible to a rigid configuration upon tensioning, allowing for secure engagement with bone tissue and facilitating easier insertion through curved pathways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional suture anchor is used, then the anchor can be inserted into bone, but the surgeon has significantly less room to perform manipulations and the anchoring process is difficult and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The suture anchor is divided into multiple rigid segments connected by flexible members, allowing the anchor to be inserted as a flexible assembly that can be collapsed into a compact configuration for easy insertion through small portals, then expanded into a rigid structure for secure anchoring
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor transitions from a flexible state during insertion to a rigid state during anchoring, allowing the same device to adapt to different operational requirements - flexibility for insertion through small spaces, rigidity for secure bone engagement
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid suture anchor is used, then the anchor provides stable bone engagement, but the anchor cannot be easily inserted through curved pathways in small surgical spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor assembly dynamically changes its structural properties from flexible during insertion to rigid during deployment, enabling it to traverse curved pathways in minimally invasive procedures while providing stable bone engagement when anchored
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segmented design with flexible members between segments allows the rigid anchor components to be collapsed into a flexible configuration for insertion, then assembled into a rigid structure for anchoring
3Reliability
If multiple rigid anchor segments are used, then the anchor can securely engage bone, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is divided into multiple rigid segments that can be independently manufactured and then assembled, allowing for simplified manufacturing of individual components while achieving reliable bone engagement through the collective action of multiple segments
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid anchor segments are nested within each other when collapsed, with inner segments fitting within outer segments, creating a compact configuration for insertion while maintaining the structural integrity needed for reliable anchoring when deployed
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 device enables efficient and effective attachment of soft tissue to bone, even in limited spaces, by transforming into a rigid construct that securely engages with bone, reducing the complexity and time required for surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible member linking the plurality of anchor segments and configured to transition the anchor assembly from a first, flexible configuration when the flexible member is in a relaxed state to a second, substantially rigid configuration when the flexible member is taut
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for anchoring surgical sutures are provided. In general, a device as described includes an anchor assembly formed of a plurality of rigid anchor segments including a proximal segment and a distal anchor segment comprising a force transferring element, and at least one segment having at least one interdigitation element configured to create an engagement force between the at least one segment and a tissue. The device further includes a flexible member linking the plurality of anchor segments and configured to transition the anchor from a first, flexible configuration when the flexible member is in a relaxed state to a second, substantially rigid configuration when the flexible member is in a taut state.