Adjustable Tibial Tunnel Targeting Device for ACL Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices lack the capability to measure the total distance across a tibial plateau and engage it at a precise target distance based on a predetermined percentage across the anterior-posterior distance, leading to inconsistent tibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstructive surgery, which can result in graft failure and reduced knee stability.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable device that measures the total distance across a tibial plateau and engages it at a target distance calculated as a predetermined percentage across the anterior-posterior distance, allowing for precise placement of a tibial bone tunnel without the need for fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional landmark-based techniques are used to identify tibial tunnel location, then the procedure can be performed without specialized measurement devices, but the tibial tunnel placement becomes inconsistent and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a movable targeting arm that can be dynamically positioned along the first arm to engage different locations on the tibial plateau. This dynamic positioning allows precise adjustment of the tibial tunnel entry point based on measured distances, enabling accurate placement while maintaining a relatively simple device structure that can be adapted to various anatomical configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes measurable parameters (distances from reference structures to tibial plateau edges and entry points) to determine the precise location for tibial tunnel placement. By calculating percentages of total measured distances, the device transforms anatomical variability into quantifiable parameters that guide consistent and accurate tunnel placement across different patients.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-distance techniques from anatomic landmarks are used, then the device structure can be simplified, but the ability to accommodate individual anatomical variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a movable targeting arm that can be dynamically positioned along the first arm to engage different locations on the tibial plateau. This dynamic positioning allows precise adjustment of the tibial tunnel entry point based on measured distances, enabling accurate placement while maintaining a relatively simple device structure that can be adapted to various anatomical configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device divides the measurement and positioning function into separate components: the first arm measures distance from reference structures to tibial plateau edges, the second arm measures distance to the desired entry point, and the targeting arm positions the drill guide. This segmentation allows each component to be relatively simple while the combination provides comprehensive adaptability to individual anatomical variations.
3Reliability
If tibial tunnel placement is performed without precise measurement, then the surgical procedure time can be reduced, but graft failure risk increases due to improper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary measurement and marking of the precise tibial tunnel entry point before drill insertion. By pre-determining the optimal location based on measured distances from reference structures, the device ensures accurate placement that prevents graft failure, while the streamlined measurement process minimizes additional surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows the surgeon to perform both measurement and positioning functions using a single integrated instrument. The surgeon measures distances with the first and second arms, calculates the appropriate entry point location, and then uses the targeting arm to position the drill guide, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and reducing procedural steps.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable device for identifying the target location for, and placement of, a bone tunnel wherein the device is capable of measuring a total distance across a region of an anatomic structure. The device may be further configured to engage the anatomic structure at a target distance across the anatomic structure to identify the location for bone tunnel placement. A method for identifying the target location for, and placement of, a bone tunnel such that the method is capable of measuring a total distance across a region of an anatomic structure and capable of engaging the anatomic structure at a target distance across the anatomic structure.