Automated Tissue Coring Device for Controlled Bone Marrow Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for accessing bone marrow, such as microfracture procedures, require multiple hands and result in variable hole size, depth, and direction, leading to inconsistent results and potential damage to the subchondral bone due to manual force application and the need for precise control, which is challenging in minimally invasive surgical settings.

Innovation Solution

A one-handed automated tissue coring device with a spring-loaded mechanism and semi-flexible metal wire for precise energy transmission, allowing controlled hole creation with adjustable angle and depth, and a disposable tip for enhanced sharpness and sterility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual hammer and awl method is used for microfracture, then bone marrow access can be achieved, but hole size, depth, and direction become variable leading to inconsistent results

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehole size, depth, and direction consistencyVSAvoidmanual coordination complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device allows the primary operator to maintain control of both the scope and the hole creation instrument simultaneously through a one-handed operation mechanism, eliminating the need for coordination between multiple operators and ensuring consistent hole parameters through automated control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual hammering action is replaced with a controlled mechanical advancement system that uses a biasing element to provide consistent force, replacing the variable manual coordination with a predictable mechanical system that delivers uniform hole creation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If hammer and awl method is used, then bone marrow access is possible, but operator coordination becomes complex requiring multiple hands

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesingle-handed operation capabilityVSAvoidforce application control

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device merges the functions of hole creation and bone marrow access into a single integrated instrument that can be controlled with one hand, combining the awl function with a controlled advancement mechanism and biasing element to provide both ease of operation and reliable force application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates a biasing element that applies a predetermined force parameter to the awl during advancement, changing the variable manual force application into a controlled parameter-driven system that ensures reliable and consistent force delivery

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If manual force application is used, then hole creation is achieved, but subchondral bone damage occurs due to uncontrolled force

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehole creation efficiencyVSAvoidsubchondral bone damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The biasing element is pre-loaded with a controlled force that cushions the impact on the subchondral bone, preventing excessive force application before it can cause damage while still enabling efficient hole creation through the cortical bone layer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

4Manufacturing precision

If automated mechanism is used for hole creation, then precision and consistency improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehole parameter consistencyVSAvoidmechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into distinct functional components including a handle portion, an awl with shank, and a biasing element, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity and precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables precise and controlled hole creation in bone tissue with reduced operator fatigue, improved access to bone marrow, and enhanced healing outcomes by minimizing tissue damage and variability in hole formation, facilitating better bone marrow access and repair procedures.

Implementation Method 1

The energy storage element is a spring coupled to the impacting mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring-loaded mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

A power transmission mechanism is configured to transmit energy from the energy storage element to the impacting mechanism, wherein the power transmission mechanism includes a semi flexible metal wire guided by a hollow shaft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEnergy transmission through guided wire:

Implementation Method 3

An impacting mechanism has a tip configured to impact a bone, wherein the tip includes a tapered point

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpact force: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS20200289134A1Tissue coring device

Publication Date: 2020.09.17 MFR TECHNOLOGIES INC

AI summary

An automated tissue coring device that enables controlled and repeatable removal of bone and bone marrow. The device includes a handle, a biasing element coupled to an advancement mechanism, an actuator, and a hollow penetrating needle. A method for bone and bone marrow biopsy, bone marrow aspiration, and bone marrow enhanced tissue repair are introduced using the device as described herein.