Tibial Tuberosity Transfer System with Marked Horizontal Bar
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for the anteromedialization (AMZ) procedure lack accurate instrumentation and methods to quantify the shift in the anterior and medial direction of the tibial tuberosity, leading to potential complications such as knee infections, arthrofibrosis, and malunion.
Innovation Solution
An improved tibial tuberosity transfer system comprising a retractor with enhanced anatomical conformation, a cutting block that accepts a collared pin, a tuberosity pin guide, an exit indicator, and a horizontal bar with markings for precise measurement of medial shift, allowing for accurate quantification and realignment of the tibial tuberosity during the AMZ procedure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional AMZ instrumentation is used, then the procedure can be performed, but accurate quantification of the tibial tuberosity shift is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal bar is pre-marked with measurement scales before the procedure. The exit indicator is pre-configured to engage the cutting block at specific predetermined positions that correspond to desired degrees of medialization (5mm, 10mm, 15mm). This preliminary preparation enables accurate quantification without requiring complex intraoperative measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The exit indicator serves as an intermediary device that translates the desired medialization distance into a precise physical position on the cutting block. By engaging the cutting block at predetermined positions, it mediates between the surgeon's intent (desired shift) and the actual osteotomy execution, ensuring accurate realignment.
2Ease of operation
If a simple retractor design is used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but it does not conform well to anatomy and is difficult to insert
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor features a specific curved configuration with a larger radius on the front surface, differing from the rest of the body. This localized variation in geometry allows the retractor to conform to the specific anatomy of the knee joint and tibial tuberosity region, facilitating easier insertion and proper positioning without requiring complete redesign of the entire device.
Data Source
AI summary
An AMZ tibial tuberosity transfer system and method of treatment of patellofemoral joints. The AMZ system includes 1) a retractor with a better conformation to anatomy and more curve (not just a bend), and also with a larger radius on the front of the retractor to allow for easier insertion; 2) a cutting block that can fully accept a collared pin; 3) a rod preferably formed of stainless steel; 4) a tuberosity pin guide; 5) an exit indicator that engages tightly the cutting block so there is no slope on exit indication; and 6) a horizontal bar provided with markings to measure the medial shift.