Sternal Closure System with Bone Punch and Compression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical methods lack effective tools for efficiently applying compressive forces to bone portions post-surgery, particularly for reapproximating the sternum after procedures, which hinders proper healing and stability.

Innovation Solution

A bone punch apparatus and closure system comprising a support arm, pivot arm, and arcuate punch, along with a tensioning device and band, are designed to securely hold and compress bone portions together, facilitating healing by applying controlled compressive forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If current surgical methods are used to repair separated or fractured bones, then basic immobilization can be achieved, but effective application of compressive forces to facilitate healing is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressive forceVSAvoidapplication of compressive force
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The compression device is self-retaining and self-adjusting, allowing the bone portions to push against each other during healing while the device maintains compression without requiring continuous external intervention. The device automatically adapts to the healing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The compression device allows dynamic adjustment of compressive force throughout the healing process. The device can be adjusted to provide appropriate compression levels as the bone heals and reduces in size, maintaining optimal compressive force without requiring surgical intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the sternum is cut to access the heart, then cardiac procedures can be performed, but the sternum requires proper reapproximation and compression for healing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesternal healingVSAvoidclosure system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system is divided into separate modular components including compression elements, tensioning members, and attachment devices. This segmentation allows for simplified application and adjustment while ensuring reliable sternal healing through coordinated action of each component

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The closure system employs nested components where smaller elements are contained within or integrated into larger structures. The compression device can be nested within the sternal closure system, allowing multiple functions to be achieved through integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11678895B2Sternal closure system
Publication Date: 2023.06.20 BIOMET MICROFIXATION LLC
  • US11678895B2 patent drawing
  • US11678895B2 patent drawing
  • US11678895B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system including a bone punch tool and a needle guide. The bone punch tool can include a support arm having a support arm proximal portion and a support arm distal portion, a pivot arm having a pivot arm proximal portion and a pivot arm distal portion, and an arcuate punch configured to punch through bone. The pivot arm distal portion can be pivotably coupled to the support arm distal portion, such that the pivot arm proximal portion is configured to be moved away from the support arm proximal portion to extend the arcuate punch into a punch position to punch an arcuate hole through bone. The needle guide can be configured to guide a needle through the arcuate hole.