Adaptive Femoral Nail System with Intelligent Set Screw Assembly
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced femoral nail system featuring a self-adjusting, machine learning-based set screw assembly that optimizes fixation, predicts bone changes, and promotes osseointegration, revolutionizing the treatment of long bone fractures.
Background and Problem Solved
The original set screw for femoral nail patent, while effective, has limitations in adapting to individual patient anatomy and bone density. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a paradigm shift in femoral nail technology, enabling personalized, dynamic, and intelligent fixation solutions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive femoral nail system comprises a modular, self-adjusting set screw assembly that utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze patient-specific data, predict bone geometry and density changes, and dynamically adjust its configuration to ensure optimal fixation. The system features interchangeable set screw assemblies tailored to specific patient demographics, bone types, and fracture patterns, enabling personalized treatment. Additionally, the set screw assembly incorporates nanotechnology to promote osseointegration and accelerate bone healing, reducing the need for revision surgeries. A robotic-assisted surgical platform utilizes artificial intelligence and real-time imaging to optimize set screw placement, minimizing surgical trauma and ensuring precise fixation.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a groundbreaking combination of machine learning, nanotechnology, and robotic assistance, which represents a significant departure from the original patent's mechanical set screw assembly. The inventive concept's ability to adapt to individual patient anatomy, predict bone changes, and promote osseointegration constitutes a non-obvious and innovative solution.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the adaptive femoral nail system could include variations in set screw assembly design, such as using different machine learning algorithms or incorporating additional sensors to monitor bone health. The system could also be adapted for use in other orthopedic applications, such as spinal or cranial fixation.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive femoral nail system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, targeting hospitals, clinics, and surgeons specializing in long bone fracture treatment. The system's ability to provide personalized, dynamic, and intelligent fixation solutions could revolutionize the treatment of long bone fractures, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/744 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8897 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical implant design, specifically intramedullary nail and set screw systems for bone fracture fixation, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, biomaterials, and surgical device optimization
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic device designer with advanced knowledge of surgical implant mechanics, materials science, and experience in developing adaptive medical technologies with mechanical and computational components
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's mechanical set screw assembly provides a foundational design that can be naturally extended through known technological augmentations like machine learning, sensor integration, and personalized adaptive mechanisms. The core mechanical principles of the original set screw remain consistent, with the PTD representing predictable technological enhancements using standard engineering approaches to improve medical device functionality and patient outcomes.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,228 |
|---|---|
| Title | Set screw for femoral nail |
| Assignee(s) | Stryker European Operations Holdings LLC |