Self-Locking Adjustable Loop Suture for Arthroscopic Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current suture anchoring methods in arthroscopic procedures are time-consuming and limited by the strength of knots, which can be unreliable if tied improperly, leading to potential tension relief and reduced repair strength.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking adjustable loop construction using a flexible member with a pleated configuration, where the ends are passed through specific points to form a mechanical interface that locks under tension, providing a secure and adjustable anchor for soft tissues to bone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional knot-tying methods are used to secure sutures, then the suture can be anchored to bone and soft tissue, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and the strength is limited by the reliability of the knot
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the knot-tying step from the traditional suture anchoring process. By using a preformed loop suture configuration with a mechanical locking mechanism, the patent removes the need for time-consuming manual knot tying while maintaining secure anchoring of sutures to bone and soft tissue during arthroscopic procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The suture is preformed with a loop configuration and mechanical locking features before being applied to the patient. This preliminary preparation of the suture geometry and locking mechanism eliminates the need for intraoperative knot tying, thereby reducing procedure time while ensuring reliable strength from the outset
2Device complexity
If traditional sutures are used without preformed loops, then the procedure is simpler, but relaxation may allow the suture to translate back through the passage, relieving tension
Solution Approach 1:
The suture construction is self-locking through its preformed loop geometry and mechanical features. The loop configuration automatically maintains tension on the suture without requiring external intervention or complex additional components, as the suture structure itself prevents translation back through the passage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a curved or looped geometry of the suture rather than a straight configuration. This curvature creates a mechanical advantage that prevents the suture from sliding back through the passage, as the loop geometry naturally resists translation and maintains constant tension on the repaired tissue
3Strength
If knots are tied to secure sutures, then anchoring is achieved, but the strength of the repair may be significantly lower than the tensile strength of the suture material
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the knot element from the anchoring mechanism, replacing it with a preformed loop suture configuration that achieves anchoring through its geometry rather than through friction-based knotting. This eliminates the strength loss associated with imperfect knot tying while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The suture is preformed with the loop configuration and locking features manufactured into the suture itself before use. This preliminary structuring of the suture geometry ensures that the full tensile strength of the suture material is utilized without being compromised by knot-tying variables, thereby maximizing repair strength
Data Source
AI summary
A self-locking adjustable loop construction and a method of forming the construction are disclosed. The construction can include a flexible member having a first end, a second end and a first portion therebetween. The first end can be passed back through the first portion at a first point such that the first end passes through the first portion from a first side of the flexible member to a second opposite side of the flexible member. The first end can be passed through the first portion at a second point spaced apart from the first point such that the first end passes through the first portion from the second side to the first side so as to place the second end outside of the first portion.