Surgical Orientation Jig for Precise Joint Implant Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current joint replacement procedures, particularly knee joint replacements, face challenges in accurately aligning prosthetic implant components without the complexity and high cost of computer navigation systems, and simple methods like 'eyeballing' are not sufficiently accurate.
Innovation Solution
The use of a femoral jig assembly, surgical orientation devices with sensors and displays, and orthopedic fixtures to accurately position prosthetic joints, utilizing sensors like three-axis accelerometers and gyroscopes for orientation monitoring and interactive user interfaces for precise angle measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If computer navigation systems are used to accurately track spatial location and movement of surgical instruments, then measurement precision and manufacturing precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential alignment guidance function from complex computer navigation systems by using simple visual guides and mechanical jigs that provide directional information through basic optical components and geometric constraints, eliminating the need for comprehensive computer-based tracking systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs disposable or single-use alignment guides and surgical jigs that provide precise alignment through simple mechanical and optical principles, replacing expensive reusable computer navigation systems with cost-effective single-purpose tools
2Device complexity
If simple methods like 'eyeballing' alignment are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary alignment guides and visual indicators that mediate between the surgical instrument and the bone anatomy, providing objective visual reference lines and mechanical constraints that enable precise alignment without requiring complex computer systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses visual indicators including colored lines, markers, and optical guides that provide clear visual feedback for alignment, allowing surgeons to achieve precise positioning through simple visual perception rather than complex electronic displays
3Manufacturing precision
If complex computer navigation systems are deployed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but cost and room requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential alignment guidance functionality from expensive computer navigation systems, implementing it through simple mechanical jigs, optical guides, and visual indicators that achieve sufficient precision without requiring comprehensive computer-based infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive reusable navigation systems with disposable or single-use alignment tools that provide adequate precision through simple mechanical and optical principles, significantly reducing both initial cost and ongoing facility requirements
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
Enables accurate and cost-effective alignment of prosthetic components without the need for bulky computer navigation systems, improving the precision of joint replacement surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the first and second sensors have at least one of a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis gyroscope
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the first and second sensors have at least one of a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis gyroscope
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for joint replacement are provided. The systems and methods include a surgical orientation device, a reference sensor device, and at least one orthopedic fixture. The surgical orientation device, reference sensor device, and orthopedic fixtures can be used to locate the orientation of an axis in the body, to adjust an orientation of a cutting plane or planes along a bony surface, or otherwise to assist in an orthopedic procedure(s).