Tensioner-Balancer for Knee Joint Soft Tissue Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current arthroplasty techniques face challenges in achieving proper balance and symmetry in soft tissue tension around the knee joint during total knee arthroplasty, particularly due to the complexity of existing gap balancing devices that cannot balance with the patella in place.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a tensioner-balancer device that includes a means to control distraction force, an electronic receiving device, and a process to collect and process data on ligament displacement and load across a range of flexion angles, generating a digital geometric model of the joint for improved soft tissue evaluation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current gap balancing devices are used, then soft tissue tension can be evaluated, but the devices are large, overly-complicated and cannot balance with the patella in place
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioner-balancer is divided into separate functional components: a tensioner element for applying distraction force, a balancer element for controlling the force, and a data collection system. This segmentation allows the device to be less intrusive and operate with the patella in place while maintaining evaluation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioner-balancer is designed to perform multiple functions: applying controlled distraction force, measuring ligament tension, collecting data across different flexion angles, and enabling balancing with the patella in place. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional arthroplasty techniques are used, then surgery can be performed, but it is difficult and complex to achieve proper balance and symmetry in soft tissue tension
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects data on ligament tension and distraction force across multiple flexion angles, providing real-time feedback to the surgeon. This feedback loop enables precise adjustment of soft tissue balance and symmetry during the surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioner-balancer allows dynamic adjustment of distraction force parameters and measures tension across different flexion angles. By changing these parameters systematically, the surgeon can achieve precise balance and symmetry in soft tissue tension.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of evaluating soft tissue of a human joint which includes two or more bones and ligaments, wherein the ligaments are under anatomical tension to connect the bones together, creating a load-bearing articulating joint, the method includes: inserting into the joint a tensioner-balancer that includes a means of controlling a distraction force; providing an electronic receiving device; moving the joint through at least a portion of its range of motion; while moving the joint, controlling the distraction force, and collecting displacement and distraction load data of the bones; processing the collected data to produce a digital geometric model of the joint, wherein the model includes: ligament displacement data along a range of flexion angles and ligament load data along a range of flexion angles; and storing the digital geometric model for further use.