Soft Tissue Fixation Device with Incremental Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices for fixing soft tissues to bone or other anatomical structures often fail to maintain consistent tissue tension, require multiple procedures, and lack the ability for incremental and reversible tension adjustments, leading to unsatisfactory outcomes in surgeries like ACL reconstruction.
Innovation Solution
The GrabTen ™ device provides a cost-effective and time-effective solution by allowing single-handed, incremental tensioning and compression of soft tissues to bone surfaces, using a three-component design with a rotating disc and interdigitating teeth and pegs for stable and reliable fixation without the need for specialized tools or procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional fixation devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the tissue tension consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a dynamic tensioning mechanism that allows the tissue to be tensioned incrementally during the procedure. The tensioning element can be adjusted to maintain consistent tissue tension, transforming a static fixation device into one with dynamic adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the tension parameter during the fixation process by allowing incremental adjustment of the tensioning element. This enables the surgeon to control and maintain optimal tissue tension throughout the procedure, improving consistency without requiring overly complex device architecture.
2Productivity
If conventional fixation devices are used, then the installation process is quick, but the need for multiple procedures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows preliminary tensioning and adjustment of the tissue during the initial surgical procedure. By incorporating incremental tensioning capabilities and the ability to maintain tension, the device performs multiple functions (fixation, tensioning, adjustment) in a single operation, eliminating the need for subsequent procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device integrates multiple functions including initial fixation, incremental tensioning, and long-term tension maintenance into a single device. This multi-functionality allows the surgeon to complete all necessary steps in one procedure, reducing the need for additional follow-up surgeries.
3Ease of operation
If conventional fixation devices are used, then the device is easy to operate, but the incremental tension adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a dynamic tensioning mechanism that allows the tissue to be tensioned incrementally during the procedure. The tensioning element can be adjusted in small increments to achieve precise tension control while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive mechanical adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning mechanism is divided into incremental adjustment steps, allowing the surgeon to apply tension in controlled increments. This segmentation of the tensioning process enables precise control over tissue tension while keeping the operation simple through discrete, manageable adjustment steps.
4Strength
If conventional fixation devices are used, then the initial fixation strength is sufficient, but the post-operative tension maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows preliminary tensioning and adjustment of the tissue during the initial surgical procedure. By incorporating incremental tensioning capabilities and the ability to maintain tension, the device performs multiple functions (fixation, tensioning, adjustment) in a single operation, eliminating the need for subsequent procedures.
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 GrabTen ™ device ensures consistent and stable tissue tension during and after surgery, reducing the need for additional procedures and maintaining strong fixation, thus improving surgical outcomes by allowing precise control and adjustment of tissue tension.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating disc and interdigitating teeth and pegs for stable and reliable fixation
Implementation Method 2
interdigitating teeth and pegs for stable and reliable fixation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
An improved device provides a cost-effective, time-effective way to stably and reliably affix soft tissues (e.g., tendon or ligament) to the surface of anatomical structures with comparable or greater strength and stiffness (e.g., bone). The device does not require specialized procedures or tools. A single device applies both incremental tensioning and compression to the soft tissue being affixed. The device allows the user, typically a physician or veterinarian, to reliably manipulate, control, and maintain tissue tension. The device is versatile, and can accommodate attachment of soft tissues of different sizes and mechanical properties to bone or to other soft tissues. These features provide flexibility to human and veterinary health practitioners in a variety of specialized areas including orthopedics, joint stabilization, soft tissue repair, spinal surgery, and plastic surgery.