Retractor Tool For Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement Surgery

Abstract

A retractor system, kit and method of use includes a plurality of retractors for use in retracting a wound during a minimally-invasive hip replacement surgery to define an access space to a surgical site is discussed. Each of the retractors comprises a handle portion configured to be held by a user, a curved bend portion distal of the handle portion, and a wound contact portion attached to the curved bend portion. The wound contact portion is configured to contact tissue of the wound when at least a portion of the retractor is inserted through a skin incision that defines the wound. Each retractor also has a distal portion disposed distally of the wound contact portion, wherein the wound contact portion has a generally curved cross-sectional profile perpendicular to its length that is configured to prevent necrosis of the tissue during retraction. In addition, the cross-sectional profile provides an improved line of sight during the surgical procedure. Furthermore, the cross-sectional profile prevents the jamming of a cutting device, such as a reamer inserted through the incision, while the retractors retract the wound.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61 / 368,754, filed Jul. 29, 2010; 61 / 368,761, filed Jul. 29, 2010; and 61 / 368,768 filed Jul. 29, 2010.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention is directed to minimally invasive surgery, and more particularly to retractor tools for use in minimally invasive hip replacement surgery.PRIOR ART[0003]Approximately 200,000 hip replacements are performed each year in the United States and the number is expected to continue to grow as the population continues to age. The usual reasons for hip replacement are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic arthritis, all of which can cause pain and stiffness that limit mobility and the ability to perform daily living activities. Hip replacement surgery is usually performed where other measures (e.g. physical therapy, medications, and walking aids) are unable to overcome the chronic pain and disability ass...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a retractor used in minimally invasive hip replacement surgery. It has a curved bend portion that contacts tissue in a wound and also contacts the bony anatomy of the acetabulum and proximal femur. This helps to reduce tissue necrosis during the procedure. The curved shape of the shaft connecting the handle to the wound contact portion also improves visibility and control during the surgical procedure.

Problems solved by technology

The usual reasons for hip replacement are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic arthritis, all of which can cause pain and stiffness that limit mobility and the ability to perform daily living activities.

However, such procedures require a longer recovery period and rehabilitation time for the patient.

However, the use of conventional retractors in MIS hip surgery has often resulted in necrosis of the tissue that borders the incision and against which the retractors are pressed to maintain the access path to the surgical site.

This frequently results in impingement on the rotating reamer as the latter is inserted through the incision to ream the acetabulum.

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