Single-Use Tensioning Instrument for Bone Cable Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tensioning instruments for securing devices in medical procedures are complex, costly, and difficult to clean, often requiring skilled technicians and leading to changes in tension that necessitate re-tensioning of cables during surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A simplified tensioning instrument with a minimal number of parts, designed for single-use applications, featuring a distal shaft member and a proximal locking member with a rotatable actuator to maintain tension, allowing for quick and easy adjustment and indication of cable tension, and a pretensioning mechanism for consistent tension application across multiple cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex tensioning instrument with multiple mechanisms is used, then cable tensioning functionality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (cable locking, tensioning, and indication) into a single integrated instrument. The locking mechanism secures the cable while the tensioning mechanism applies force, and the indicator provides visual feedback—all within one device rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning instrument is designed to perform multiple operations: locking the cable in place, applying tension through rotation of the actuator, and providing visual indication of tension status. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate instruments.
2Reliability
If a reusable complex tensioning instrument is used, then functionality is improved, but cleaning difficulty and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a tensioning instrument designed for single-use applications. The simplified construction with fewer parts makes the instrument inexpensive enough to be disposed of after one use, eliminating the need for complex cleaning and sterilization procedures required for reusable instruments.
3Productivity
If multiple cables are tensioned sequentially with one instrument, then resource utilization is improved, but tension stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument includes a visual indicator that provides real-time feedback on the tension status of the cable. This allows the operator to see when a cable is properly tensioned and when re-tensioning is needed, enabling quick adjustment without reconnecting the full instrument.
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
The instrument enables quick and consistent tensioning of cables, reduces the need for re-tensioning, simplifies cleaning, and allows for single-use applications, thereby reducing costs and operational complexity while maintaining tension stability during multiple cable installations.
Implementation Method 1
A rotatable actuator is disposed about the distal shaft member for shifting the distal shaft member with respect to the proximal locking member along the longitudinal axis to tension a cable
Implementation Method 2
The cable anchoring portion includes a cleat portion spaced from the proximal end of the proximal locking member for receiving a portion of the cable thereabout for fixing the cable to the proximal locking member
Data Source
AI summary
Instruments for applying tension to a securing device, such as a cable or wire, for securing bones in place and fastening implants, such as plates, to bones. In some forms, the tensioning instrument is configured with minimal parts for ease of manufacturing and allowing single use applications. The instrument may include a pretensioning mechanism for applying desired preload before connecting a cable to be tensioned to the instrument. The instrument may be sized and configured to remain attached to a tensioned cable while other cables are connected to a bone. In another form, the instrument may be expandable to remove any slack from the securing device and apply tension thereto.