Suture Button Implantation With Knotless Tensioning for Syndesmosis Fixation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current fixation methodologies for ankle syndesmosis rupture require multiple incisions, manual suture tensioning, and multiple knots, leading to loose fixation, soft tissue damage, and increased surgical trauma.
Innovation Solution
A suture button system comprising a flexible fixation implant with a flexible connector and two suture buttons, deployed using an inserter device, which minimizes incisions and knots, and utilizes a knotless tensioning mechanism for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual suture tensioning and knot-tying are used, then the suture can be secured, but the fixation becomes loose and soft tissue damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The suture button device automatically secures the suture through its button mechanism without requiring manual knot-tying. The button passes through the bone tunnel and engages with the suture, automatically creating a secure fixation that maintains constant tension without surgeon intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the harmful element of manual knot-tying from the surgical procedure. By replacing the traditional suture passing and knot-tying method with a button device that automatically secures the suture, the source of soft tissue damage (multiple knots and manual manipulation) is extracted from the system.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple incisions and through-drilling are performed, then the suture buttons can be implanted, but surgical trauma increases
Solution Approach 1:
The implantation process is segmented into two separate steps: first implanting the button through a small incision, then passing the suture through the bone tunnel and securing it to the button. This segmentation allows for minimal incisions and avoids the need for through-drilling, reducing surgical trauma while maintaining implantation feasibility.
3Reliability
If multiple knots are tied to secure the suture, then the fixation is strengthened, but the procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suture button device performs the securing function automatically without requiring the surgeon to tie multiple knots. The button mechanism itself provides the fixation strength through its engagement with the suture and bone tunnel, eliminating the need for complex knot-tying procedures.
4Ease of operation
If manual suture handling is used, then the suture can be positioned, but loose suture results and fixation quality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The button device automatically maintains proper suture tension and positioning once the suture is passed through the bone tunnel and engaged with the button. The mechanical engagement between the button and suture ensures constant, appropriate tension without requiring continuous manual adjustment, thereby achieving both ease of operation and high fixation quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A suture button system for fixing a syndesmotic injury comprises a flexible fixation implant and an inserter device used to deploy the implant across bones. The flexible fixation implant typically comprises a flexible connector and two suture buttons which interface with the bone surface or a bone plate or washer. The flexible connector comprises a plurality of suture strands. The buttons typically have a feature which allows them to interface with an instrument used to deploy the implant across the two bones. The inserter device is configured to interface with the flexible fixation implant and to position it across bones through a pre-drilled bone tunnel. The inserter device may comprise an cannulated insertion rod and a handle.