Shape Memory Alloy Membrane for Guided Bone Regeneration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bone augmentation methods require invasive procedures, costly bone grafts, and scaffolds, and are prone to complications like soft tissue dehiscence and bacterial contamination, which hinder effective bone regeneration, especially in large spaces or areas requiring vertical bone height.
Innovation Solution
A membrane comprising two silicone layers with a shape memory material strip made of nickel and titanium, which is heated to expand the space between the bone and soft tissue, allowing for guided bone regeneration without the need for external scaffolds or frequent surgical interventions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bone grafts and scaffolds are used for bone augmentation, then bone regeneration is promoted, but the procedure becomes more invasive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for external bone grafts and scaffolds by utilizing the patient's own bone regeneration capacity. The membrane serves as a barrier that guides endogenous bone growth without requiring additional bone material transplantation, thereby reducing procedure invasiveness while maintaining bone regeneration effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane enables self-service bone regeneration by harnessing the body's intrinsic regenerative potential. The shape memory alloy strip automatically adjusts the membrane configuration in response to temperature changes, creating space for bone growth without requiring external mechanical intervention or frequent surgical adjustments.
2Stability of the object's composition
If soft tissue is sutured under tension for closure, then wound closure is achieved, but soft tissue flab dehiscence occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy strip provides dynamic adjustment capability to the membrane. When exposed to body temperature or external heat, the strip transforms from a flat state to a curved state, automatically creating and maintaining space between the membrane and bone surface. This dynamic configuration change allows soft tissue to close without tension while preserving the regenerative space, preventing both dehiscence and compromising the healing environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes temperature as a control parameter to trigger the shape memory effect. The phase transition temperature of the shape memory alloy is designed to activate within the physiological temperature range, causing the membrane to automatically adjust its three-dimensional configuration. This parameter-based control enables the membrane to adapt to thermal changes without mechanical intervention, maintaining optimal conditions for soft tissue healing and bone regeneration.
3Manufacturing precision
If membranes are used for guided bone regeneration, then bone growth is guided, but premature membrane exposure and bacterial contamination occur
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane is pre-configured with an integrated shape memory alloy strip that automatically activates upon exposure to physiological conditions. This preliminary integration ensures that the space-maintaining function is activated immediately when the membrane is placed, creating a stable configuration before bone regeneration begins. The pre-programmed shape memory effect prevents premature membrane collapse or exposure that could lead to bacterial contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite structure by integrating the shape memory alloy strip within the membrane layers. This composite design combines the barrier function of the membrane with the active shape-adjustment capability of the shape memory alloy. The alloy strip is embedded between the inner and outer layers of the membrane, creating a multi-functional composite that simultaneously provides biological barrier protection and mechanical space maintenance, enhancing overall membrane stability.
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 membrane effectively increases bone height by creating a space for regeneration, reducing the need for invasive procedures and complications, while allowing the soft tissue to heal, and can be used to augment bone in various regions, including the maxillofacial area.
Implementation Method 1
at least one strip comprising a shape memory material comprising nickel and titanium, where the at least one strip is sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer; where each of a breadth and a length of the first layer and the second layer is independently in a range of 10-60 mm, a thickness of the first layer and the second layer is independently in a range of 0.01-1 mm, a width of the at least one strip is in a range of 2-10 mm, a length of the at least one strip is in a range of 7-30 mm, a thickness of the at least one strip is in a range of 0.05-1 mm, the at least one strip is flat at a temperature in a range of 10-30° C. and is in a shape of a curve at a temperature greater than 30° C. and less than 40° C.
Data Source
AI summary
A membrane having at least one strip of a shape memory material and the at least one strip is sandwiched between a first layer and a second layer. A method for guiding bone regeneration which excludes the use of a tenting screw is also disclosed. The membrane may be useful for gradual displacing of the soft tissue covering bones. The gap developing between the bone and the displaced soft tissue may be filled with regenerated bone. The membrane allows the regenerated bone to form while the soft tissue heals. The membrane and method may be useful in dentistry for treating vertical bone defects. The membrane and method may also be useful for regenerating soft tissue between the bone and the displaced soft tissue.