Trial Acetabular Cup With Laser Alignment Guide
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for accurately positioning the acetabular cup prosthesis during hip joint replacement surgery are prone to errors, leading to increased wear and osteolysis due to incorrect alignment, and existing alignment guides are either expensive or unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a trial acetabular cup with a signal generating device to mark the optimal insertion position, allowing for precise alignment of the acetabular cup prosthesis using a corresponding insertion tool, optionally with a post or target for enhanced accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current alignment techniques are used, then the acetabular cup can be inserted, but the positioning accuracy is poor (error of about ±20°) leading to increased wear and osteolysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment guide system that acts as a mediator between the surgeon and the acetabular cup insertion. This alignment guide includes a laser indicator and reference markers that provide visual feedback to ensure accurate positioning. The alignment guide is inserted into the acetabulum first, serving as a template to direct the subsequent cup insertion, thereby reducing positioning errors from ±20° to within acceptable tolerances and improving long-term prosthesis durability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional fixing means such as screws or bone cement are used, then stability is improved, but device complexity and surgical time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using a trial acetabular cup with an alignment guide that is inserted and positioned before the final prosthesis. The alignment guide establishes the correct positioning and stability parameters in advance, allowing the final cup to be inserted directly into the predetermined correct position without requiring additional fixing means. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for complex screw fixation or bone cement procedures while ensuring prosthesis stability.
3Ease of operation
If the acetabular cup is positioned at angles of about 50° or higher, then insertion is facilitated, but excessive wear of the prosthesis occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the alignment guide system that includes laser indicators and reference markers visible to the surgeon during insertion. This visual feedback mechanism allows real-time monitoring and adjustment of the cup positioning angle. The system provides continuous guidance to ensure the cup is inserted at the optimal angle (typically 40-45°) rather than excessive angles, preventing prosthesis wear while maintaining ease of operation through clear visual direction.
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
This method ensures accurate placement of the acetabular cup prosthesis within acceptable tolerances, reducing wear and osteolysis by providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for aligning the prosthesis during surgery.
Implementation Method 1
A laser generating device 4, such as a laser pen, is located in the bowl such that when it is operated, a beam 5 is directed outwardly along the axis passing through the pole in the base of the bowl
Data Source
AI summary
A trial acetabular cup having a signal generating device located thereon.