Partial TMJ Prosthesis with Segmented Metal-Plastic Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temporomandibular joint prostheses experience wear and tear, leading to functional restrictions and impairment in quality of life, as they fail to provide a reliable and durable sliding movement mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A partial temporomandibular joint prosthesis with form-fit engagement between components, utilizing a titanium-based first component and a ceramic or plastic second component with a connection element, allowing for a 5-axis movement and secure locking mechanism, which can be individually configured and adapted to the patient's condition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a temporomandibular joint prosthesis with sliding movement is used, then joint function is restored, but wear and tear occurs leading to functional restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is divided into multiple components (first component with connection piece, second component with condyle and second connection piece) that can be separately manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and enables replacement of worn parts without replacing the entire prosthesis.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthesis uses different materials for different components - the first component can be made of metal material while the second component is made of ceramic or plastic. This composite material approach allows each material to be selected for its optimal properties (strength, wear resistance, biocompatibility) thereby reducing overall wear and tear.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a custom-adapted condyle is used, then individual patient conditions are optimized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The condyle is separated as a distinct second component that can be individually configured and manufactured based on patient-specific requirements. This allows customization of the condyle shape and properties without requiring custom manufacturing of the entire prosthesis, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pieces are designed with universal engagement features (projections and recesses) that can accommodate different condyle configurations. This allows the same connection mechanism to work with various custom-adapted condyles, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining individual adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an implantable partial temporomandibular joint prosthesis (90, 90′, 90″) having a first implant part (10, 10′, 10″) that can be fastened to a lower jaw (40) and has a condyle (42, 42′, 42″) with respect to which a joint surface (52, 82) situated on a cranium (50) forms an abutment; wherein the first implant part (10, 10′, 10″) comprises a first component (20, 20′, 20″) formed from a metal material, which first component can be fastened to the lower jaw (40), and a second component (30, 30′, 30″) formed from a plastics material, which second component comprises the condyle (42, 42′, 42″); and wherein the first component (20, 20′, 20″) is provided with a first connection piece (22, 22′, 22″) and the second component (30, 30′, 30″) is provided with a second connection piece (32, 32′, 32″), and the first connection piece (22, 22′, 22″) and the second connection piece (32, 32′, 32″) can be or are