Orthognathic Treatment System for Craniofacial Disorders
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel orthognathic treatment system utilizing maxillary expanders to treat various craniofacial disorders, including sleep apnea, snoring, temporomandibular joint disorders, facial asymmetry, and craniosynostosis.
Background and Problem Solved
Current maxillary skeletal anchorage expanders are limited to treating transverse maxillary and anterior-posterior deficiencies. However, there is a growing need to address craniofacial disorders that require innovative solutions. The new inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original patent to expand its applications to entirely new industries and fields.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a maxillary expander, an adjustment mechanism, and a cranial anchor. The maxillary expander is configured to apply forces to the maxilla without coupling to the teeth, allowing for lateral movement to increase airway volume, relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joint, or correct facial asymmetry. The adjustment mechanism variably maintains a distance between the maxillary expander and the cranial anchor, ensuring precise control over the treatment process. The system can be integrated with sensors and guidance systems to provide real-time feedback and optimize treatment outcomes.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces a paradigm shift in orthognathic treatment by applying the core technology of maxillary expanders to a broad range of craniofacial disorders. The novel combination of components and operation enables a non-obvious expansion of the original patent's scope, providing a unique solution to address unmet clinical needs.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include customizable maxillary expanders, adjustable cranial anchors, and integrated sensors for real-time monitoring. Variations may also involve adapting the system for pediatric or adult patients, or incorporating AI-powered guidance systems for personalized treatment planning.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the orthognathic treatment market, with applications in sleep medicine, oral surgery, orthodontics, and craniofacial reconstruction. The system's versatility and adaptability make it an attractive solution for clinicians and patients seeking innovative treatments for craniofacial disorders.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/8071 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/663 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8023 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/863 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic and maxillofacial surgical devices, specifically focusing on craniofacial reconstruction, maxillary expansion techniques, and non-invasive skeletal repositioning technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees in bioengineering, expertise in orthopedic device design, understanding of craniofacial anatomy, and knowledge of surgical intervention techniques for skeletal repositioning
Obviousness Rationale
A skilled practitioner would recognize that the source patent's maxillary expander design provides a fundamental framework that can be systematically adapted to address various craniofacial disorders by modifying the device's application and integrating additional monitoring technologies. The core mechanical principles of bone screw anchoring, adjustable expansion mechanisms, and precise force application remain consistent across the PTD's proposed variations. A PHOSITA would understand that expanding the device's clinical applications represents a natural progression of the original technological concept.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,230 |
|---|---|
| Title | Maxillary expander and protraction device |
| Assignee(s) | Facegenics, Inc. |