Split Barbed Tenodesis Implant for Arthroscopic Fixation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current arthroscopic tenodesis repair methods using interference screws require invasive procedures, are time-consuming, and offer weaker fixation strengths compared to open techniques, with issues like tendon rotation and difficulty in setting initial graft tension.
Innovation Solution
A split barbed fixation device designed for arthroscopic tenodesis repair that eliminates the need for whip stitching and provides strong fixation comparable to interference screws, using a tendon grasper and two mating implant portions with barbs to secure tendons to bone without externalizing the tendon, allowing for precise tensioning and minimizing procedure steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If interference screws are used for tenodesis repair, then fixation strength is improved, but invasiveness and procedure complexity increase due to requiring open approach and additional whipstitching steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tendon grasping function and implant fixation function into a single integrated device. The implant includes both the fixation screw and the tendon grasper as one unit, eliminating the need for separate whipstitching steps and externalization of the tendon. This merging resolves the contradiction by maintaining strong fixation while reducing procedure complexity and invasiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides fixation strength like a traditional interference screw, grasps the tendon internally without externalization, and integrates the tendon capture mechanism within the screw structure. This multi-functionality allows the device to achieve strong fixation while simplifying the overall procedure.
2Strength
If interference screws are used for tenodesis repair, then fixation strength is improved, but procedure time increases due to additional whipstitching and externalization steps
Solution Approach 1:
The tendon grasper is pre-integrated into the implant structure before surgery. The tendon is captured internally by the grasper as part of the implant insertion process itself, rather than requiring preliminary whipstitching and externalization steps. This preliminary integration of the tendon capture function into the implant design eliminates time-consuming preparatory steps while maintaining fixation strength.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional arthroscopic approaches are used, then invasiveness is reduced, but fixation strength decreases to mid to low 100N range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of arthroscopic minimally invasive approach with the strong fixation capability of interference screws by integrating a tendon grasper into the screw structure. This allows the device to be inserted arthroscopically without externalization while maintaining fixation strength comparable to open technique interference screws, thus resolving the contradiction between invasiveness and fixation strength.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a novel split barbed fixation device for tenodesis, soft tissue reattachment of tendons and ligaments to bones. The insertion device is adapted for an entirely arthroscopic approach while achieving fixation strength with ultimate pullout resistance comparable to interference screws. The device includes an integrated tendon grasper that provides for easy manipulation of the tendon arthroscopically while eliminating the need for external whip stitching of the tendon, thereby reducing preparation time. The device further includes elements that prevent the fixation implant from being destabilized or rotating during deployment and manipulation, including: a depth limiting sheath, a first implant retainer, a first implant retaining step, a tendon grasping needle tube, and an implant keyway for mating the implant to the tube. The implant itself comprises two separate portions mating along a diagonal and having barbed surface features in opposite directions, only one of which contacts the tendon.