Osteotomy Fixation Device for Tibial Tubercle Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical techniques for osteotomy fixation in the tibial tubercle region during total knee arthroplasty and patellofemoral instability procedures lack reliable methods for securing the osteotomy fragment, often resulting in displacement, non-union, or malunion due to limitations in screw placement and suture/wire fixation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical fixation device comprising a first and second brace portion with openings and a bridge portion, allowing for secure attachment of screws and sutures to stabilize the osteotomy fragment, with the ability to be contoured to the bone surface for improved fixation during osteotomy procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screw fixation is used through the osteotomy fragment into the posterior cortex, then fixation strength is improved, but screw placement is blocked by the intramedullary portion of the tibial component
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the fixation approach from a single-dimension posterior screw insertion (blocked by intramedullary component) to a multi-dimensional configuration using lateral plates with superior-inferior directed screws that bypass the intramedullary obstruction. The bridge portion extends laterally to provide attachment points for plates that screw in directions avoiding the blocked posterior path.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system is segmented into multiple independent components: a bridge portion connecting the osteotomy fragment to the tibia, and separate lateral plates that can be independently positioned and secured with screws. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and placed in locations avoiding the intramedullary obstruction.
2Ease of operation
If suture or wire fixation is used through bone holes, then fixation can be applied, but the technique provides tenuous fixation at best and sutures/wires cut through bone
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces rigid lateral plates as intermediary structures that distribute fixation forces across a larger bone surface area. Instead of sutures or wires concentrating stress at narrow bone holes, the plates act as intermediaries that spread the load, preventing cut-through while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fixation parameters from soft tissue sutures/wires to rigid plate-screw construction. This parameter change increases the mechanical strength and reliability of fixation while reducing the tendency for cut-through, as the rigid plates maintain constant positional relationship with the bone.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard screw fixation or suture/wire techniques are used, then fixation can be applied, but displacement occurs post-operatively leading to non-union or malunion
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple fixation mechanisms into a single integrated system: the bridge portion provides structural connection, lateral plates provide additional stabilization surfaces, and multiple screws in different directions create redundant fixation paths. This combination of merged elements ensures fragment stability even if one fixation element fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention provides beforehand cushioning by creating an over-engineered fixation system with multiple redundant fixation points and distributed load paths. The lateral plates and multiple screws are positioned to compensate for potential failure modes, cushioning against displacement before it can occur post-operatively.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical osteotomy fixation device having a first brace portion with a first plurality of openings formed therethrough, and a second brace portion with a second plurality of openings formed therethrough. A bridge portion extends between the first brace portion and the second brace portion, the bridge portion including at least one hole formed therethrough. The device is fastened in place to allow fixation of a tibial tubercle fragment during osteotomies during complex primary and revision total knee surgery, as well as sports and reconstructive procedures.