Customizable Hinged Articulating Spacer System for Enhanced Revision Knee Arthroplasty
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A modular, sensor-integrated hinged articulating spacer system for revision knee arthroplasty, offering improved customization, real-time feedback, and streamlined revision processes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's hinged articulating spacer system for revision knee arthroplasty, while effective, has limitations in terms of customization, real-time monitoring, and revision efficiency. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing modular, customizable femur and tibia rods, integrated sensor systems, and easily removable and replaceable components.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new hinged articulating spacer system comprises modular femur and tibia rods designed to be customized to fit individual patient anatomy, ensuring a more precise fit and improved weight-bearing capabilities. The system also integrates a sensor system, including load and motion sensors, to monitor patient movement and provide real-time feedback to healthcare professionals, enabling more effective post-operative care and rehabilitation. Additionally, the modular design allows for easy removal and replacement of components, streamlining the revision process.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of modular, customizable components and integrated sensor systems, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in terms of fit, functionality, and post-operative care, and are not obvious in light of the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in sensor types, data analysis algorithms, and user interfaces for healthcare professionals. Additionally, the modular design could be adapted for use in other joint replacement procedures, such as hip or shoulder arthroplasty.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The customizable hinged articulating spacer system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, particularly in the revision knee arthroplasty market. The system's ability to provide real-time feedback and improve post-operative care could lead to increased adoption and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/3845 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/30724 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/389 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/3859 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/305 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30677 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00011 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic medical devices, specifically knee revision arthroplasty systems, requiring advanced biomechanical engineering, medical device design, and surgical intervention expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic medical device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in joint replacement technologies, familiar with sensor integration, modular prosthetic design, and surgical rehabilitation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating sensor technologies and modular design principles into existing hinged articulating spacer systems represents a predictable evolution of medical device innovation. The core mechanical functionality of the source patent provides a clear foundation for incremental technological improvements. Sensor integration and customizable components are well-established design approaches in medical device engineering that would naturally extend the original articulating spacer concept.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,424 |
|---|---|
| Title | Hinged articulating spacer system for revision knee arthroplasty |