Self-Locking Suture Construct for Bone Tissue Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Arthroscopic procedures using sutures and suture anchors are time-consuming and limited by the strength of knots, which can compromise the effectiveness of tissue repair.
Innovation Solution
A method employing a flexible member with a self-locking construct featuring adjustable loops, allowing for secure tissue coupling to bone without the need for knots, using a suture tail and anchor system that can be implanted and tightened to secure tissue to bone or between tissue portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sutures and suture anchors are used to secure soft tissue to bone, then tissue coupling is achieved, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the knot-tying step from the traditional suture anchor procedure by using a pre-formed loop construct that self-locks onto the suture tail. This extraction of the time-consuming knot-tying operation while maintaining secure tissue coupling directly resolves the contradiction between reliability and procedure time.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-locking construct is prepared in advance with a pre-formed loop structure that is designed to automatically lock onto the suture tail during implantation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for intraoperative knot tying, reducing procedure time while ensuring reliable tissue coupling through the pre-engineered locking mechanism.
2Strength
If traditional knot-tying methods are used to secure sutures, then tissue repair strength is achieved, but the procedure becomes difficult to perform and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The self-locking construct performs the function of knot-tying automatically through its mechanical locking mechanism. The loop structure self-secures onto the suture tail without requiring surgeon manipulation or knot-tying skills, making the procedure easier to perform while maintaining equivalent or superior tissue repair strength compared to traditional knots.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual knot-tying mechanical system with an automated mechanical locking system. The self-locking construct uses engineered friction and geometric interlocking mechanisms to secure the suture, eliminating the need for manual knot manipulation and significantly improving ease of operation while preserving tissue repair strength.
3Reliability
If sutures are tied into knots to secure tissue, then tissue coupling is achieved, but the strength of the repair is limited by the knot strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the knot element from the tissue securing mechanism entirely. By using a self-locking loop construct that mechanically interlocks with the suture tail, the design eliminates the knot as the limiting factor in repair strength. The failure point shifts from the knot to the suture material or tissue itself, maximizing the achievable repair strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a flexible knot that can loosen or fail, the invention inverts the approach by using a rigid geometric locking mechanism. The self-locking construct's fixed angular geometry creates a mechanical advantage that distributes forces more evenly, preventing the stress concentration that limits knot strength and thereby improving overall repair reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for coupling tissue with a flexible member including a tail and a self-locking construct coupled to the tail. The self-locking construct includes an adjustable first loop and an adjustable second loop coupled thereto. The method includes implanting an anchor in bone, the anchor slidably mounted to the tail. The tail is positioned relative to the tissue. An end of the tail is inserted through the first loop. The tail is passed through the first loop, the second loop is pulled into the anchor, and the self-locking construct is positioned relative to the tissue. The self-locking construct is tightened against the tissue by pulling on an end of the self-locking construct. The first loop is tightened onto the second loop.