Universal Low-Profile Intercranial Assembly for Cranioplasty
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurosurgical devices face challenges with high extrusion and infection risks, and there is a lack of battery-powered, low-profile implants suitable for intercranial placement, limiting their functionality and cosmetic outcomes in cranioplasty procedures.
Innovation Solution
A universal low-profile intercranial assembly comprising a mounting plate and a low-profile intercranial device with a static cranial implant and a functional neurosurgical implant, designed for precise anatomical placement, using materials like PMMA, PEEK, and titanium alloys, and featuring a hollowed-out center aperture and cavity for optimal positioning and secure fixation, with optional topographical markings for surgical accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If custom craniofacial implants are used for cranioplasty reconstruction, then cosmetic appearance and brain protection are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a modular implant system where a base cranial implant can accommodate multiple functional components (neuromodulation devices, sensors, power sources) through standardized mounting plates and attachment mechanisms. This allows a single implant design to serve multiple surgical purposes and patient needs, reducing the complexity of custom manufacturing while maintaining cosmetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cranial implant into distinct modular components: a base cranial implant structure, removable mounting plates, and interchangeable functional devices. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables easy replacement or reconfiguration of functional elements without recustomizing the entire implant, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If battery-powered neuromodulation devices are implanted intercranially, then functional neurosurgery capability is improved, but extrusion and infection risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the battery-powered neuromodulation device within a hollowed-out cavity of the cranial implant, creating a protected nested structure. The functional device is housed inside the implant's internal cavity, which provides mechanical protection and isolates the device from external environments, thereby reducing extrusion risk while maintaining neuromodulation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials by combining the cranial implant structure (made from biocompatible materials like titanium or PEEK) with battery-powered electronic components. This composite approach integrates functional neuromodulation technology with a protective structural framework that reduces infection risk through proper sealing and material selection.
3Shape
If low-profile intercranial devices are designed, then cosmetic outcome is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing the mounting plate with a peripheral surface that conforms to the specific anatomical curvature of the patient's skull, while the central portion features a hollowed-out cavity with precise dimensional control for device placement. This localized precision approach ensures accurate anatomical fit at critical interfaces while maintaining the overall low-profile contour for cosmetic purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-forming the mounting plate's peripheral surface with the correct anatomical curvature during manufacturing, and pre-configuring the hollowed-out cavity with precise dimensions and orientations. This preliminary preparation of geometric features eliminates the need for complex intraoperative adjustments, reducing manufacturing precision requirements during surgery while ensuring accurate anatomical fit.
4Adaptability or versatility
If functional components are integrated into cranial implants, then neuromodulation capability is improved, but ease of modification and replacement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the mounting plate with removable and replaceable functional components that can be easily detached and reattached. The mounting plate serves as a dynamic platform where neuromodulation devices, sensors, and power sources can be interchangeably configured based on changing patient needs, enabling flexible modification without permanent integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the functional components from the base cranial implant through removable mounting plates, allowing the functional elements to be independently replaced or modified. This segmentation creates clear separation between the permanent implant structure and the replaceable functional devices, significantly improving ease of modification and replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal low-profile intercranial assembly includes a mounting plate and a low profile intercranial device composed of a static cranial implant and an interdigitating functional neurosurgical implant. The low profile intercranial device is shaped and dimensioned for mounted to the mounting plate.