Shape Memory Bone Plate Retention Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Shape memory plates used in osteosynthesis surgeries face challenges in maintaining an open position during implantation, as they tend to transform immediately at room temperature, making it difficult for surgeons to attach screws effectively, or require external heating sources which may not be feasible during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A fixation system comprising a shape memory plate that can be retained in an open shape by an insertion tool until it is affixed between bones, allowing for precise placement and subsequent compression, using a retention spacer and guide tubes to maintain the plate's open configuration until screws are securely attached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the plate is made superelastic to transform at room temperature, then the plate can automatically compress bones, but the plate immediately transforms making implantation and screw attachment difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A retention device is introduced as an intermediary component that temporarily holds the plate in its open configuration during implantation. This mediator prevents premature transformation while allowing surgeon access for screw attachment, and is subsequently removed to enable the compression function.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device is installed beforehand to prevent the plate from transforming during the implantation process. This preliminary action ensures the plate remains in the desired open state during screw attachment, and is removed only when the compression phase is ready to begin.
2Ease of operation
If the plate is designed to transform at body temperature, then the plate remains stable during surgery, but external heating sources are required which may not be feasible during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The external heating source and temperature control mechanism are extracted from the surgical system. Instead of requiring complex heating equipment during surgery, the solution uses a simple retention device that can be easily installed and removed, eliminating the need for Feasible heating sources.
3Ease of operation
If the plate is held in open position using retention devices, then screw attachment is facilitated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device is designed to interact only with specific local features of the plate (such as slots or openings), rather than requiring a complex overall structure. This localized interaction simplifies both the retention device and the plate design while maintaining functionality.
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
Enables secure and controlled compression of bones by maintaining the plate in an open shape until both screws are anchored, ensuring consistent and effective osteosynthesis without premature compression, allowing for precise timing of the compressive force application.
Implementation Method 1
The plate is configurable between an open shape and a compressed shape... allowing the plate to move from its open shape to its compressed shape, thereby compressing the first bone with the second bone
Data Source
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AI summary
An orthopedic bone plate constructed from shape memory material provides the ability to move from an open shape to a compressed shape and create compression on two bones or bone fragments to encourage healing. The plate may be any number of shapes, with two or more screws anchoring the plate to bone. The plate is affixed to bone in a sequence of steps that involve first placing the plate on an insertion tool, attaching drill guide tubes, placing the plate over bone, drill holes in bone, and then attaching the plate to the bone via screws. The insertion tool can then be removed at the surgeon's convenience allowing compression on the two bones.