Shielded Prosthetic Component for Real-Time Joint Parameter Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current orthopedic joint replacement surgeries face challenges in accurately measuring and adapting to individual patient variations, leading to inconsistent outcomes and potential need for costly revisions, due to the lack of precise real-time data on implant status and joint wear.

Innovation Solution

An ultrasonic measurement system employing a propagation tuned oscillator (PTO) or Phase Locked Loop (PLL) with zero-crossing and edge-detect receivers to measure physical parameters such as force, pressure, and load in real-time, using sensors placed between joint components to ensure proper alignment and balance of artificial joints.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard orthopedic joint replacement procedures are used, then general population needs are met, but individual patient variations cannot be accurately addressed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to individual patient variationsVSAvoidprecision in measuring joint parameters

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical measurement methods with ultrasonic measurement technology. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted through the prosthetic component and bone, and the time of flight and echo characteristics are measured to precisely determine joint alignment, bone density, and component positioning. This substitution enables non-invasive, real-time measurement of critical joint parameters with high precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an ultrasonic transducer as an intermediary device placed between the prosthetic component and bone surface. This intermediary enables indirect measurement of joint parameters by transmitting ultrasonic waves through the interface, allowing surgeons to obtain precise measurements of alignment, bone quality, and component fit without direct contact or invasive procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If no real-time measurement system is used, then device complexity is reduced, but post-operative complications and revisions increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereliability of implant performanceVSAvoidcomplexity of measurement system

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ultrasonic measurement system is designed to be self-contained and portable, allowing surgeons to perform measurements independently without complex external equipment. The device includes integrated transducers, signal processing, and display capabilities, enabling self-service measurement capabilities in the operating room without requiring additional specialized equipment or extensive technical support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the measurement functionality from complex hospital imaging systems and creates a standalone, portable ultrasonic device. By taking out only the essential measurement capabilities and integrating them into a single handheld unit, the system achieves high reliability for intraoperative measurements while avoiding the complexity of larger imaging systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If conventional surgical tools are used, then procedure standardization is maintained, but accurate alignment and balance cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision in joint alignment and balanceVSAvoidease of use during surgery

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The ultrasonic measurement system provides real-time feedback to the surgeon during the implantation procedure. Measurements of joint alignment, bone density, and component positioning are displayed immediately, allowing the surgeon to make adjustments before finalizing the implant. This feedback loop enables precise alignment and balance while maintaining procedural efficiency through clear, real-time guidance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9119733B2Shielded prosthetic component

Publication Date: 2015.09.01 HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP

AI summary

A prosthetic component suitable for trialing or long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes at least one sensor for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system or a biological parameter is disclosed. The prosthetic component comprises a conductive material. Electronic circuitry and sensors are housed within the prosthetic component. Data from the prosthetic component can be transmitted to a remote system. The prosthetic component can comprise steel, titanium, cobalt, an alloy, or other conductive material. At least a portion of the conductive material comprising the prosthetic component is coupled to ground to shield the sensor from parasitic coupling that can affect measurement accuracy. The prosthetic component can have an opening in the shield to allow sensing or transmission of data.