Ultrasonic Bone Preparation Tool for Prosthesis Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for prosthesis installation, particularly in hip replacement surgery, face challenges such as inconsistent acetabular cup placement due to unpredictable torques and non-standardized forces during mallet-based impaction, leading to issues like hip instability, polyethylene wear, and the need for revision surgery.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing axial alignment of force transference through a sliding hammer or cockup mechanical gun to deliver non-torqueing, incrementally controlled forces, combined with the use of pressure and sound sensors for feedback to ensure precise placement and alignment of prostheses, and the integration of ultrasonic energy in surgical tools for improved bone preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mallet-based impaction is used to install acetabular cup, then prosthesis installation can be performed, but inconsistent cup placement occurs due to unpredictable torques and non-standardized forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mallet-based mechanical impact system with an ultrasonic vibration system. The ultrasonic bone preparation tool uses high-frequency vibrations to prepare the bone surface and facilitate prosthesis insertion, eliminating the unpredictable torques and non-standardized forces associated with manual mallet striking. This substitution provides controlled, consistent insertion forces while maintaining the ability to install the acetabular cup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs ultrasonic vibration as the primary mechanism for bone preparation and prosthesis insertion. The ultrasonic bone preparation tool generates high-frequency mechanical vibrations that effectively prepare the bone surface and guide the prosthesis into proper alignment. This vibration-based approach replaces the chaotic mechanical impacts of mallet striking with controlled, repeatable vibratory motion, thereby improving cup placement consistency.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual mallet striking is used, then prosthesis insertion can be achieved, but mal-alignment and loosening occur due to undesirable torques and moment arms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the manual mallet striking mechanism with an ultrasonic vibration system that provides precise force control. The ultrasonic bone preparation tool delivers controlled vibratory energy to prepare the bone and guide the prosthesis, eliminating the uncontrolled torques and moment arms that cause mal-alignment. This results in improved cup alignment accuracy while maintaining effective insertion force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through pressure and sound sensors that monitor the insertion process in real-time. These sensors detect conditions during prosthesis installation and provide feedback to the surgeon or automated system, allowing for adjustment of insertion parameters to maintain proper alignment and prevent mal-positioning. This feedback loop ensures consistent, accurate cup placement by responding to actual insertion conditions.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional bone preparation methods are used, then bone processing can be performed, but precision and safety are reduced without ultrasonic enhancement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies ultrasonic vibration to the bone preparation tool, transforming conventional mechanical bone cutting into an ultrasonic-assisted process. The high-frequency vibrations generated by the ultrasonic bone preparation tool enable more precise bone surface preparation and facilitate cleaner cuts with reduced thermal damage. This vibration enhancement significantly improves bone preparation accuracy while maintaining efficient energy utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical bone cutting mechanisms with ultrasonic vibration-based bone preparation. The ultrasonic bone preparation tool uses high-frequency vibrations to interact with bone tissue, providing superior precision and control compared to traditional mechanical reaming or drilling. This substitution enhances both the accuracy of bone preparation and the efficiency of energy use during the bone cutting process.
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 approach reduces the risk of mal-alignment and loosening, enhances the accuracy and safety of prosthesis installation, and allows for precise bone preparation, potentially eliminating the need for cement in joint replacement surgeries and improving the success rate of bone ingrowth technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a motive system, coupled to the cutting implement, configured to operate the cutting implement in the primary mode of freedom of motion and in a secondary mode of primary mode of freedom different from the primary mode of freedom wherein the secondary mode of freedom includes an ultrasonic vibratory motion
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for improving installation of a prosthesis. Devices include prosthesis installation tools, prosthesis assembly tools, site preparation systems, and improved power tools used in implant site preparation, the tools including a secondary motion that preferably includes an ultrasonic vibration.