Sternal Closure Band with Threaded Tensioning Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for closing and immobilizing separated bone portions, such as the sternum, during healing lack effective mechanisms for applying consistent compressive force and securing the bone portions together efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A closure system comprising a band, a locking terminal, and a tensioning device with a threaded rod and adjustable components that securely loop around and tighten the bone portions, allowing for adjustable tension and secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a band and locking terminal are used to secure bone portions, then the bone portions can be immobilized, but the mechanism for applying consistent compressive force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic tensioning device with a threaded rod that can be adjusted to apply and maintain compressive force on the bone portions. The threaded mechanism allows for controlled movement and force application, transforming a static band into a dynamically adjustable compression system that maintains consistent pressure during healing.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the band and the bone portions, converting rotational movement of the threaded rod into linear compression force. This intermediary mechanism enables precise control over the compressive force applied to the bone without requiring direct complex attachment to the bone itself.
2Reliability
If a tensioning device with threaded rod is added to apply compressive force, then bone healing is facilitated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional modules: the band for circumferential support, the locking terminal for securing the band, and the tensioning device with threaded rod for applying compressive force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while keeping the overall device assembly manageable and implantable.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device with threaded rod serves multiple functions: it applies compressive force, maintains consistent pressure during healing, and can be adjusted post-implantation if needed. This multi-functionality increases reliability for bone healing without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the band is tightened to secure bone portions, then immobilization is achieved, but the ability to adjust tension after implantation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking terminal incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This allows the band tension to be adjusted after implantation by unlocking the terminal, repositioning the band, and re-locking it at the new tension level, providing post-implantation adjustability while maintaining secure fixation during the locked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device with threaded rod and locking terminal enables self-adjustment capabilities where the surgeon or patient can modify the tension without requiring additional tools or procedures. The threaded rod provides fine-tension control and the locking terminal maintains the adjusted position, allowing the device to serve itself for both initial tensioning and subsequent adjustments.
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 system effectively applies compressive force to facilitate bone healing by securely immobilizing bone portions, enabling efficient reapproximation and stabilization of the sternum, allowing for adjustable tension and easy implantation within the human body.
Implementation Method 1
The tensioning device includes a body and a threaded rod. The threaded rod is received in the body and engages the band such that movement of the threaded rod relative to the body moves the second portion of the band relative to the first portion of the band.
Implementation Method 2
The locking terminal includes a casing and a cam member. The cam member may be rotatable relative to the casing and the first portion of the band between an unlocked position allowing the second portion of the band to move through the casing and a locked position in which the cam member engages the second portion of the band to restrict movement
Data Source
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AI summary
A closure system may secure a first bone portion to a second bone portion. The closure system may include a band, a locking terminal, and a tensioning device. The band may be adapted to be looped around the first and second bone portions. The locking terminal may fixedly engage a first portion of the band and selectively fixedly engage a second portion of the band. The tensioning device may include a body and a threaded rod. The threaded rod may be received in the body and may engage the band such that movement of the threaded rod relative to the body moves the second portion of the band relative to the first portion of the band.