Suture Organization Device for Graft Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical suspensory graft fixation devices often become entangled or twisted, requiring additional time for surgeons to return them to the original configuration before proper graft loading, which can delay surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A foldable substrate with a top edge and bottom edge featuring first and second panels that are foldable about a central longitudinal axis, along with slits and tabs to organize and secure the suspensory graft fixation device, ensuring it remains in a desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the suspensory graft fixation device is used, then the graft ligament can be secured in the bone tunnel, but the suture and suture loops become entangled or twisted prior to use
Solution Approach 1:
The organization device pre-positions the suture and suture loops in an organized configuration before the surgical procedure begins. The device includes a body with a cavity that receives and holds the suspensory graft fixation device, anchor member, and suture in a predetermined arrangement, preventing entanglement during storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The organization device serves as an intermediary between the surgeon and the suspensory graft fixation device. It provides a structured interface through which the surgeon can access and deploy the implant components in a controlled manner, rather than handling the delicate suture and anchor components directly.
2Reliability
If the suture becomes entangled or twisted, then the device must be returned to original configuration, but this requires additional time during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The organization device performs the organization action in advance by maintaining the suture and suture loops in their proper configuration during storage and transport. This preliminary organization eliminates the need for time-consuming reconfiguration during surgery, as the components are already positioned correctly for immediate deployment.
3Ease of operation
If the suspensory graft fixation device is stored without organization, then it becomes entangled, but organizing it requires additional device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The organization device is segmented into functional zones within its body: a cavity for receiving the anchor member, pathways for guiding the suture, and specific positions for holding the suture loops. This segmentation allows each component to be organized in its designated space, preventing entanglement while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The organization device employs a nested structure where the anchor member is received within a cavity, and the suture and suture loops are organized within and around the anchor member. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization and maintains organization without requiring a overly complex external structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An organization device for maintaining a suspensory graft fixation device (i.e., an implant and suture) in a desired position. The device includes a substrate having top and bottom edges with first and second panels extending therebetween. The device also includes a first central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the top edge to the bottom edge between the first and second panels. The first and second panels are foldable about the axis between open and closed positions. The device also includes an opening extending through the bottom edge and into the first panel, and a plurality of top slits and bottom slits. The plurality of top slits includes at least one top slit which is aligned with the first opening. The device additionally includes a tabs adjacent the opening. The slits and tabs are configured to maintain suture of a suspensory graft fixation device in an organized manner.