SI-Joint Implant Placement via Bone Density Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implant placement across the sacro-iliac joint do not adequately consider the varying bone density of the sacrum, leading to suboptimal mechanical stability of the implant construct.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for implanting multiple guides pins and implants across the SI-joint, where the guide pins are inserted into an anterior portion of the SI-joint associated with articular cartilage, and the implants are placed in bores created around the guide pins, with specific anatomical landmarks used for precise placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If implants are placed using conventional methods without considering bone density variations, then the implant placement process is simple and quick, but the mechanical stability of the implant construct is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by obtaining preoperative imaging (CT scans, radiographs) to assess bone density distribution in the sacrum before implant placement. This allows the surgical plan to be pre-designed based on the patient's specific bone density map, enabling implants to be positioned in areas of highest bone density for optimal mechanical stability while avoiding areas with lower density that would compromise fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the implant placement strategy to the specific bone density characteristics of different regions within the sacrum. Instead of using a uniform placement approach, the surgeon selects specific insertion sites based on the local bone density map, placing implants in areas with higher bone density to maximize mechanical stability. This localized optimization ensures that each implant receives optimal bone quality for anchorage.
2Reliability
If multiple implants are placed across the SI-joint to improve stability, then the mechanical stability improves, but the surgical complexity and risk of complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using intraoperative imaging (fluoroscopy, C-arm, or intraoperative CT) to continuously monitor and verify the position of guide pins and implants during placement. This real-time feedback allows the surgeon to adjust the placement trajectory and depth of each implant to ensure optimal positioning within the bone density map while avoiding neural and vascular structures. The feedback mechanism enables precise control of multiple implants, reducing the risk of complications such as neural injury or vascular damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using guide pins as temporary mediators to establish the precise trajectory and depth for each implant. The guide pins are first placed under imaging guidance to target areas of high bone density, then serve as guides for drilling and implant insertion. This intermediary step allows for precise control of multiple implant placements while maintaining safety margins from critical neural and vascular structures, thereby reducing the risk of complications.
3Reliability
If implants are placed in areas of higher bone density to enhance stability, then the mechanical stability improves, but the precision required for placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces purely mechanical placement methods with an imaging-guided approach that combines radiographic/CT visualization with surgical instrumentation. Preoperative CT scans and intraoperative fluoroscopy provide detailed bone density maps and real-time positional feedback, allowing the surgeon to precisely target areas of highest bone density. This substitution of mechanical estimation with imaging-based precision enables accurate placement of multiple implants in optimal locations while maintaining control over the surgical process.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to implant placement into bone. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to implant placement across the sacroiliac joint. Placement can be facilitated using various CT imaging views that allow the implants to be placed in bone associated with articular cartilage.