Variable Angle Lapidus Cut Guide for Foot Osteotomy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Lapidus cut guides have fixed cutting angles, making it difficult to perform precise osteotomies tailored to individual patient anatomy for metatarsal-cuneiform joint fixation in the human foot.
Innovation Solution
A variable angle osteotomy system comprising a metatarsal cut guide and a pivotally attached cuneiform cut guide, along with a de-rotation device, allowing for infinite cut angle adjustments and precise alignment using K-wires and sagittal saw blades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed angle cut guides are used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different patient anatomies is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cut guide incorporates a pivotal attachment mechanism that allows the cuneiform cut guide to rotate relative to the metatarsal cut guide, enabling dynamic adjustment of cutting angles to match different patient anatomies while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The cut guide is divided into separate modular components (metatarsal cut guide and cuneiform cut guide) that can be independently positioned and adjusted relative to each other, allowing customization for different patient requirements without requiring a completely complex redesign
2Manufacturing precision
If variable angle cut guides are implemented, then the precision of osteotomy cuts is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal attachment enables the cuneiform cut guide to be rotated to various angles relative to the metatarsal cut guide, allowing precise adjustment of cutting angles for each patient's specific anatomy while using a straightforward mechanical pivot mechanism rather than complex electronic or automated systems
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows change in the angular parameter between the two cut guides through pivotal rotation, enabling precise control over the cutting angles without requiring complex mechanisms - the angle adjustment is achieved through simple mechanical rotation and locking
Data Source
AI summary
A variable angle osteotomy system is a de-rotation device capable of moving the first metatarsal toward the second metatarsal with a single hand, allowing the first metatarsal to be simultaneously rotated to proper anatomical position with the other hand. A de-rotation device that has a low profile and lays distal to first tarsometatarsal joint rests out of the surgeon's way while performing the osteotomy. A joint alignment feature allows the metatarsal cut slot to be placed at an exact distance from first tarsometatarsal joint. A feature allows alignment of the metatarsal cut guide to the long axis of first metatarsal. Two fixation elements to allow fixation of first metatarsal cut slot. A hinged attachment, between the metatarsal and cuneiform cut guides, allows rotation of the cuneiform cut slot relative to the fixated metatarsal cut slot. Two fixation elements allow fixation of the cuneiform cut slot to the cuneiform.