Suture Anchor Segmentation for Multi-Vector Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Suture anchors face instability when subjected to multiple force vectors, particularly in orthopedic surgeries where they are used to attach soft tissue to bone, as they act as a single point of fixation for nearly opposite force vectors.
Innovation Solution
A suture anchor with an elongate body that can transform from a delivery configuration to a deployed configuration through the application of two substantially opposed forces, featuring rotatable segments and bone-engaging features that secure the anchor within the bone tunnel, allowing for increased anchoring stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a suture anchor is used as a single point of fixation for multiple force vectors, then it can treat multiple injuries simultaneously, but it results in possible instability of the anchor
Solution Approach 1:
The suture anchor is divided into multiple independent anchor elements (first anchor element and second anchor element) that can engage with bone at different locations. Each anchor element can independently withstand force vectors, distributing the mechanical loads across multiple attachment points rather than concentrating them at a single point, thereby maintaining stability while treating multiple injuries
2Reliability
If the suture anchor is designed with multiple anchor elements, then it can withstand multiple force vectors, but it increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple anchor elements are combined into a single integrated suture anchor device that functions as one cohesive unit during implantation and operation. The anchor elements are positioned at different locations on the anchor body but work together to provide stable fixation, achieving multi-point fixation without requiring multiple separate anchor devices
Data Source
AI summary
Suture anchors and methods for use are provided. A suture anchor can include an elongate body configured to be implanted in bone. The elongate body can have a distal and a proximal end, and at least one bone-engaging feature arranged on an outer surface. At least a portion of the elongate body can be attached to a soft tissue structure in need of being reattached to bone. The elongate body can have a delivery configuration that is different than a deployed configuration, and a change in the configuration of the elongate body can be effected by the application of at least two substantially opposed forces to the elongate body.