Retractor system

Abstract

A retractor may include: one or more racks; and retractor blades coupled to the respective racks via the respective carriages and retractor arms. The carriages may traverse along the respective racks to laterally position the retractor blades. The retractor blade may include a track along which the retractor arm may traverse to position the retractor blade longitudinally relative to the rack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a surgical device, and more particularly to a retractor system for retracting soft tissue around a surgical incision or other surgical site. Background Technology

[0002] By comparing conventional and traditional methods with the present disclosure as set forth in the remainder of this application with reference to the accompanying drawings, the further limitations and disadvantages of these conventional and traditional methods will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Various aspects of this disclosure provide a retractor system capable of retracting soft tissue and / or anatomical structures. For example, but not limited to, various aspects of this disclosure relate to a retractor system including a rack assembly comprising a plurality of racks, with retractor blades attached to the racks via respective retractor arms and carriages. The carriages can traverse along the respective racks to position the retractor arms and the retractor blades coupled to such retractor arms.

[0004] One or more of the retractor blades may include a retractor blade track extending longitudinally between the proximal and distal ends of the retractor blades. A retractor arm may be coupled to the retractor blade track, allowing the retractor arm to move laterally or longitudinally along the retractor blades. In various embodiments, the retractor blade track may allow the retractor arm to be selectively longitudinally positioned and locked into such selected locations along the retractor blades.

[0005] Other aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this disclosure and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings provide various views of the puller system according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0007] Figures 1A to 1M Various views of a puller system according to multiple aspects of this disclosure are provided.

[0008] Figures 2A to 2S Various views of a puller system according to multiple aspects of this disclosure are provided.

[0009] Figures 3A to 3T Various views are provided depicting the interaction between the puller arm and the puller blade track of the puller system.

[0010] Figures 4A to 4K Provides descriptions of intervertebral disc pads, intervertebral disc pads and Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the attachment of the retractor blades and the tools used for attaching the intervertebral disc pads.

[0011] Figures 5A to 5G Provided fan blades and their connection to Figures 1A to 1M The various views attached to the retractor system.

[0012] Figures 6A to 6J Provides blade fins, blade fins and Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the attachment of the retractor blades and the tools used to attach the blade fins.

[0013] Figures 7A to 7C Provides depictions of lung blades and lung blades with Figures 1A to 1M The various views attached to the retractor system.

[0014] Figures 8A to 8C A handle and a tool for attaching the handle are provided. Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the quick-connect mounting components of the retractor system.

[0015] Figure 9 Depicting Figures 1A to 1M The external rack of the retractor system and the various angles formed by the external rack in various embodiments.

[0016] Figures 10A to 10C Provides handles and their... Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the attachment of the retractor.

[0017] Figures 11A to 11D Various views of a puller system according to multiple aspects of this disclosure are provided.

[0018] Figures 12A to 12B Provides a retractor handle and its connection with Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the attachment of the retractor blades.

[0019] Figures 13A to 13B Provides a retractor handle and its connection with Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the attachment of the retractor blades. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The following discussion illustrates various aspects of this disclosure by providing examples of it. Such examples are non-limiting, and therefore the scope of various aspects of this disclosure need not be limited to any particular feature of the examples provided. In the following discussion, the phrases “for example,” “like,” and “exemplary” are non-limiting and are generally synonymous with “by example and not by way of limitation” and “for example and not by way of limitation.”

[0021] As used herein, "and / or" means any one or more items in a list linked by "and / or". For example, "x and / or y" means any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}, in other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z".

[0022] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular instances only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “includes,” “comprising,” “including,” “has,” “have,” “having,” etc., specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0023] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element, first component, or first segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, second component, or second segment. Similarly, various spatial terms such as "upper," "lower," and "side" may be used to distinguish one element from another in a relative manner. However, it should be understood that components may be oriented in different ways without departing from the teachings of this disclosure; for example, a semiconductor device may be rotated laterally such that its "top" surface faces horizontal and its "side" surface faces vertical.

[0024] In the accompanying drawings, various dimensions (e.g., layer thickness, width, etc.) may be exaggerated for clarity. Furthermore, throughout the discussion of the various examples, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements.

[0025] The discussion will now involve various example illustrations provided to enhance understanding of the various aspects of this disclosure. It should be understood that the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the specific features of the examples provided and discussed herein.

[0026] Figures 1A to 1M Various views of the retractor system 10 are provided. Specifically, Figures 1A to 1D , Figure 1H and Figure 1J The puller system 10 is shown in its initial position, where the puller blades 120 are clustered together to form a closed column. Conversely, Figures 1E to 1G as well as Figures 1K to 1M The retractor system 10 is shown in a retracted position, in which the retractor blades 120 are positioned away from each other. In such a retracted position, the posterior surfaces of the retractor blades 120 can retract or pull back soft tissue and / or other anatomical structures.

[0027] As depicted, the retractor system 10 may include a rack assembly 100, with retractor blades 120 attached to the rack assembly via corresponding retractor arms 130, 130C and carriages 140, 140C. In various embodiments, the rack assembly 100, retractor blades 120, retractor arms 130, 130C, and carriages 140, 140C may be formed of surgical stainless steel. In some embodiments, various alternative materials may be used to form all or part of the retractor system 10.

[0028] As shown, the rack assembly 100 may include three racks 110, 110C, but various embodiments may include more or fewer racks. The proximal end of each outer rack 110 may be coupled to the central carriage 140C. In one embodiment, the proximal end of the outer rack 110 is fixed to the lateral side of the central carriage 140C. The outer racks 110 may extend from the central carriage 140C and form an interior angle α between 90° and 180° relative to each other. Furthermore, the central rack 110C may extend through the central carriage 140C and divide the interior angle α formed by the outer racks 110, see, for example... Figure 9 In various embodiments, the central rack 110C bisects the interior angle α. Furthermore, unlike the outer rack 110, which is fixedly connected to the central carriage 140C, the central carriage 140C can traverse the central rack 110C, as further explained below.

[0029] The proximal portion of each outer retractor arm 130 can be coupled to the corresponding outer rack 110 via the angled assembly 240 of the corresponding carriage 140. Conversely, the proximal portion of the central retractor arm 130C can be fixed to the distal end of the central rack 110C. Furthermore, the distal portion of each retractor arm 130, 130C can be coupled to the corresponding retractor blade 120 via a vertical retractor arm channel 270 passing through the distal end of each retractor arm 130, 130C. The vertical retractor arm channel 270 allows the retractor arm 130, 130C to longitudinally traverse at least a portion of its corresponding retractor blade 120.

[0030] In various embodiments, the outer rack 110, outer retractor arm 130, and outer carriage 140 may be substantially mirror images of each other. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, no separate detailed description of the outer rack 110, outer retractor arm 130, and outer carriage 140 is provided, as their implementation and operation are readily discernible from the descriptions provided for another outer rack 110, another outer retractor arm 130, and another outer carriage 140.

[0031] As shown in the figure, each rack 110, 110C may include a cylindrical rod or guide rail 112, 112C with a rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, each guide rail 112, 112C may include rack teeth 114, 114C spanning the longitudinal surface of the guide rail 112, 112C. Although not depicted, one or more of the guide rails 112, 112C may include a stop toward the free end of the respective guide rail 112, 112C to prevent the rack 110, 110C from being accidentally removed from its corresponding carriage 140, 140C.

[0032] Each carriage 140, 140C may include pinions 136, 136C. Pinions 136, 136C may include heads 137, 137C and teeth that engage with rack teeth 114, 114C of racks 110, 110C. Heads 137, 137C may include sockets 139 for receiving a tool 200 capable of rotating pinions 136, 136C. Rotation of pinions 136, 136C and engagement of pinions with rack teeth 114, 114C imparts ratchet motion to carriages 140, 140C relative to their racks 110, 110C. Specifically, rotation of pinion 136 in a first direction causes the outer carriage 140 to traverse along its rack 110 in the first direction and pull the attached retractor blade 120 along its rack 110 in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of pinion 136 in the second direction causes outer carriage 140 to traverse along its rack 110 in the second direction and pulls the attached retractor blade 120 along its rack 110 in the second direction. Similarly, rotation of pinion 136C in the first direction causes the distal end of central rack 110C to retract toward central carriage 140C, thereby pulling the attached retractor blade 120 toward central carriage 140C. Conversely, rotation of pinion 136C in the second direction drives the distal end of central rack 110C away from central carriage 140C, thereby extending the attached retractor blade 120 away from central carriage 140C.

[0033] As shown in the figure, each carriage 140, 140C may include a lever 150, 150C that can selectively move between a ratchet position and a disengaged position. In the ratchet position, levers 150, 150C can position the pawl such that the distal end of the pawl moves toward and engages the rack teeth 114, 114C of its racks 110, 110C. Conversely, in the disengaged position, levers 150, 150C can position the distal end of the pawl away from the rack teeth 114, 114C, and disengage the distal end of the pawl from the rack teeth 114, 114C of its racks 110, 110C. This disengagement of the pawl allows the carriages 140, 140C to slide freely along their racks 110, 110C.

[0034] In various embodiments, when the distal end of the pawl engages with the rack teeth 114, 114C, the pawl and rack teeth 114, 114C allow ratchet movement in a first direction. Furthermore, during engagement, the distal end of the pawl and the rack teeth 114, 114C prevent movement in the opposite second direction. For this purpose, in various embodiments, the rack teeth 114, 114C of the racks 110, 110C can be uniformly shaped and symmetrically inclined, with the leading and trailing edges having the same slope. However, the distal end of the pawl can be asymmetrically inclined. Alternatively, the leading edge (i.e., the edge towards the compression direction of the ratchet movement) can be gentler than the opposing trailing edge. Because the leading edge is gentler or steeper, the lateral movement of the carriages 140, 140C relative to their racks 110, 110C in the retraction direction applies an upward force to the distal end of the pawl, sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the associated spring and allow the distal end of the pawl to travel on the rack teeth 114, 1140. Conversely, because the trailing edge is steeper, the lateral movement of the carriages 140, 140C relative to their racks 110, 110C in the opposite second direction does not apply an upward force to the distal end of the pawl sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the spring, thus preventing the distal end of the pawl from traveling on the rack teeth 114, 114C. In this way, the carriages 140, 140C can be locked or held in place along their racks 110, 110C, thereby maintaining the desired position of the retractor blade 120 associated with the carriages 140, 140C.

[0035] As shown, the proximal portion of the central retractor arm 130C can be fixed to the distal end of the central rack 110C. Conversely, the proximal portion of the outer retractor arm 130 can be connected to the outer carriage 140 via a joint that allows the outer retractor arm 130 to rotate. Specifically, the retractor arm shaft 132 of the retractor arm 130 can be connected to the angled assembly 240 of the carriage 140. Unlike the central rack 110C and the central retractor arm 130C, the retractor arm shaft 132 and the outer carriage 140 can cooperate to provide a rotation axis extending longitudinally through the outer retractor arm 130. Therefore, the rotation axis provided by the outer carriage 140 and the retractor arm shaft 132 can be perpendicular to, intersect with, or otherwise cross the longitudinal axis of the corresponding outer rack 110. For example, Figure 1G The outer retractor arms 130 are depicted as being angled, such that the lower ends of their respective retractor blades 120 are angled away from each other.

[0036] As shown, the outer carriage 140 may include a carriage body 142 having an opening for receiving the outer rack 110. The opening may extend through a lateral side of a proximal portion of the carriage body 142. Thus, the rack 110 can pass through the outer carriage 140, thereby allowing the outer carriage 140 to traverse the rack 110 and position its outer retractor arm 130 and retractor blade 120.

[0037] Each outer carriage 140 has an angling assembly 240 that allows the corresponding outer retractor arm 130 to rotate about its longitudinal axis and lock it at a desired angle. For this purpose, the angling assembly 240 may include an adjusting screw 242 extending vertically through the distal portion of the outer carriage 140. In the depicted embodiment, the adjusting screw 242 may include a threaded portion 244 and a head 247. The head 247 may include an opening or keyway sized to fit snugly with a tool. Such a tool can be used to rotate the adjusting screw 242 via the head 247. Other mechanisms may be used to rotate the adjusting screw 242. For example, the adjusting screw 242 may include a wheel, lug, or winding mechanism for manual rotation. As another example, the adjusting screw 242 may include a slotted head or otherwise formed head 247.

[0038] The spool 246 can be attached to the lower end of the adjusting screw 242 or integrally formed with the lower end of the adjusting screw. Furthermore, the threads of the threaded portion 244 can engage the threads or other features of the carriage body 142. Due to this threaded engagement, rotation of the adjusting screw 242 in a first direction causes the spool 246 to extend in the downward direction. Conversely, rotation of the adjusting screw 242 in the opposite second direction causes the spool 246 to retract in the upward direction.

[0039] The angled assembly 240 may include a member or tines 248. The proximal end of the tines 248 may be fixed to the retractor arm shaft 132 of each outer retractor arm 130. The distal end of the tines 248 may protrude from the retractor arm shaft 132 and engage a tapered surface of the spool 246. Because the tines 248 engage the tapered surface of the spool 246, when the spool 246 moves downward, the tines 248 can rotate the retractor arm shaft 132 of the corresponding outer retractor arm 130 in a first direction. Conversely, when the spool 246 moves upward, the tines 248 can rotate the retractor arm shaft 132 of the corresponding outer retractor arm 130 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Therefore, a person can adjust the rotation of the corresponding outer retractor arm 130 by rotating the adjusting screw 242 via a tool engaged with the head 247.

[0040] By adjusting the rotation of screw 242, each outer retractor arm 130 can rotate relative to its corresponding outer carriage 140, and this rotation can be transmitted to the retractor blade 120 coupled to the corresponding outer retractor arm 130. In this way, the distal ends of the retractor blades 120 can be individually angled toward or away from each other. Furthermore, other aspects of the spool 246, fork 248, and / or angled assembly 240 can be configured to provide mechanical stops at either end or both ends of an angle range. Additionally, the pitch of the threaded portion 244 can be selected to provide the desired fineness of the angle adjustability.

[0041] like Figures 3A to 3H As shown, each retractor blade 120 may include a retractor blade track 305 extending longitudinally downward along the rear side of the retractor blade 120. In various embodiments, the retractor blade track 305 may only longitudinally span a portion of the rear side of the retractor blade 120. While the depicted embodiments show the retractor blade track 305 extending downward along the rear side of the retractor blade 120 from a proximal or upper portion of the retractor blade 120, in other embodiments, the retractor blade track 305 may further extend along the retractor blade 120, may extend along the entire retractor blade 120, may be located in the central portion of the retractor blade 120, and / or may be located in the distal portion of the retractor blade 120.

[0042] As shown in the figure, the retractor blade track 305 may include track catches 310, with longitudinal retractor blade guides 320 on both sides of the track catches. In various embodiments, the retractor blade guides 320 are formed by longitudinal track recesses 321 in the rear side of the retractor blade 120. Specifically, each recess 321 may extend at an angle into the rear side of the retractor blade 120 such that the distance between opposing track recesses 321 at the rear side of the retractor blade 120 is greater than the depth of the track recess in the rear side of the retractor blade 120. Furthermore, each recess 321 may include an upper end 322 and a lower end 324. The upper end 322 may provide an opening at the upper or proximal end of the retractor blade 120 for allowing the retractor arms 130, 130C to enter and grip the retractor blade guide 320. Specifically, the size and spacing of such openings can be designed to receive corresponding flanges or fingers 276 of the retractor arm channel 270 extending through the distal portion of the retractor arms 130, 130C. In various embodiments, the opening at the upper end 322 can be tapered, such that the opening at the upper end 322 is larger than the opening or groove provided by the recess 321. This tapering makes it easier to slide the fingers 276 into the track recess 321 and engage the retractor blade guide 320 with the fingers 276 of the retractor arms 130, 130C.

[0043] Similarly, the lower end 324 of the track recess 321 may provide an opening for allowing the retractor arms 130, 130C to enter and engage the retractor blade guide rail 320. Specifically, the size and spacing of such an opening may be designed to receive the corresponding flanges or fingers 276 of the retractor arms 130, 130C. However, unlike the upper end 322 of the recess, the lower end 324 of the recess may not extend all the way to the end of the retractor blade 120. Therefore, the flanges or fingers 276 may not be easily inserted into the opening at the distal end of the retractor blade 120. Therefore, to allow the fingers 276 to be inserted via the lower end 324 of the recess, the retractor blade 120 may include a larger recess 325 at the lower end 324, which tapers towards the lower end 324 of the recess. These larger recesses 325 are sized to receive the fingers 276 and guide the fingers 276 into the lower end 324 of the recess when the retractor blades 120 slide downward relative to the retractor arms 130, 130C.

[0044] The fingers 276 of the retractor arms 130, 130C can be angled inward toward the retractor arm channel 270 to tightly engage and engage with the retractor blade guide rail 320 via the track recess 321 when the retractor arm channel 270 receives the retractor blade track 305. In this way, the fingers 276 can capture the retractor blade guide rail 320 and position the retractor blade track 305 within its retractor arm channel 270.

[0045] As described above, the retractor arms 130, 130C can engage the retractor blade guide 320 in a manner that allows the retractor arms 130, 130C to translate longitudinally along the respective retractor blade 120 while simultaneously securing the retractor blade 120 to its respective rack 110, 110C. However, in other embodiments, the retractor arms 130, 130C can be implemented to engage the retractor blade 120 to the rack 110, 110C using different techniques and / or mechanisms.

[0046] For example, retractor arms 130, 130C can engage retractor blade 120 via a male / female T-slot connection. In this male / female T-slot connection, retractor arms 130, 130C include a male T-shaped member that engages a female T-slot of retractor blade 120. Conversely, retractor blade 120 can include a male T-shaped member that engages a female T-slot of retractor arms 130, 130C.

[0047] Alternatively, the retractor arms 130, 130C can engage the retractor blade 120 via a cam locking mechanism that clamps the retractor blade guide 320. For example, the cam locking mechanism may include a cam that pulls the fingers of the retractor arms 130, 130C toward each other to grip the retractor blade guide 320 in a manner similar to the fingers described above. Similarly, the retractor arms 130, 130C can operate as crab clamps, wherein rotation of the screw in a first direction causes the fingers of the retractor arms 130, 130C to grip the retractor blade guide 320 of the retractor blade 120, while rotation of the screw in a second direction causes the fingers of the retractor arm 130 to release the retractor blade guide 320 of the retractor blade 120.

[0048] In another embodiment, the retractor blade track 305, instead of track latch 310, may include teeth spaced apart along its longitudinal length along the rear side of the retractor blade 120. Actuation of the lever, button, or other mechanism of the retractor arms 130, 130C may control the distal end of the pawl to extend through / retract from the retractor arm channel 270. The extension of the pawl may engage one or more teeth of the retractor blade 120 at its distal end and limit further translation of the retractor arms 130, 130C along the retractor blade 120 until the lever, button, or other mechanism is actuated to retract the pawl and disengage the distal end of the pawl from the teeth.

[0049] As shown, the outer retractor arm 130 may include a blade release button 290. The blade release button 290 may be configured to pivot a pawl 297 about a pivot pin 292. A spring (not shown) may supply a biasing force that pivots the pawl 297 and biases the distal end of the pawl 297 toward a fully engaged position. In the fully engaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 extends from the distal end of the outer retractor arm 130 and into the retractor arm channel 270. In this engaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 may engage the track latch 310 of the retractor blade 120 and hold the retractor blade 120 in a specific position along the retractor blade track 305. See, for example, Figure 3.3. However, a person may press the blade release button 290 to pivot the pawl 297 about the pivot pin 292 and to pivot the distal end of the pawl 297 toward a fully disengaged position. In the fully disengaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 can move away from and disengage from the track latch 310 of the retractor blade 120, allowing the retractor blade 120 to slide along the retractor arm channel 270. See, for example... Figure 3G .

[0050] like Figures 3A to 3D As shown, the retractor blade 120 can be attached to the outer retractor arm 130 by pressing the blade release button 290 and sliding the retractor blade 120 into the upper end 322 of the recess at the top or proximal end of the retractor blade 120. The user can also press the blade release button 290 to slide the outer retractor arm 130 along the retractor blade track 305 in the rear side of the retractor blade 120. This sliding can extend the retractor blade 120 further into the surgical site or retract it from the surgical site. Furthermore, the process can be reversed to completely disengage the retractor blade 120 from the outer retractor arm 130. That is, the user can press the blade release button 290 and slide the retractor blade 120 relative to the outer retractor arm 130, causing the retractor blade 120 to slide away from the outer retractor arm 130 via the upper end 322 of the recess at the proximal end of the retractor blade 120.

[0051] Similarly, such as Figures 3E to 3H As shown, the retractor blade 120 can be attached to the outer retractor arm 130 by pressing it into a larger recess 325 at the lower end 324 of the retractor blade track 305. In various embodiments, the retractor blade track 305 can be configured to engage the distal end of the pawl 297 when the outer retractor arm 130 is pressed into the lower end 325 of the larger recess 325 of the retractor blade track 305. Therefore, unlike attachment via the proximal end of the retractor blade track 305, it is not necessary (but possible) for a person to press the blade release button 290 to attach the retractor blade 120 to the outer retractor arm 130. Furthermore, the retractor blade 120 can be completely disengaged from the outer retractor arm 130 by reversing the process. That is, a person can press the leaf release button 290 and cause the retractor leaf 120 to slide relative to the outer retractor arm 130, so that the retractor leaf 120 slides away from the outer retractor arm 130 via the lower end 324 of the recess of the retractor leaf track 305.

[0052] Similar to the blade release button 290 of the outer retractor arm 130, the central retractor arm 130C may include a slider 290C. The slider 290C can be configured to slide longitudinally along the central retractor arm 130C. A spring 292C can supply a biasing force that biases the pawl 297C toward the retractor arm channel 270 and the fully engaged position. See, for example... Figures 3P to 3T In the fully engaged position, the distal end of pawl 297C can extend into the retractor arm channel 270 passing through the distal end of the central retractor arm 130C. In this engaged position, the distal end of pawl 297C can engage the track latch 310 of the retractor blade 120 and hold the retractor blade 120 in a specific position along the retractor blade track 305. See, for example... Figures 3P to 3Q However, a person can slide the slider 290C away from the retractor blade 120 to move the distal ends of the slider 290C and the pawl 297C toward the fully disengaged position. In the fully disengaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297C can disengage from the track latch 310 of the retractor blade 120 to allow the retractor blade 120 to slide along the retractor arm channel 270. See, for example... Figures 3S to 3T .

[0053] like Figures 1A to 1MAs shown, the retractor system 10 may include one or more connectors 160. Specifically, each outer carriage 140 may include a connector 160 on the top surface of the carriage body 142. Furthermore, each rack 110, 110C may include a connector 160 on the top surface of the rack 110. The connectors 160 on the racks 110, 110C prevent the carriages 140, 140C from traversing the connectors 160. Thus, the connectors 160 on the outer rack 110 may be positioned toward the central carriage 140C to allow the outer carriage 140 to traverse a significant portion of the length of the rack 110. Similarly, the connectors 160 on the top side of the central rack 110C may be positioned toward the distal end of the central rack 110C to allow the central carriage 140C to traverse a significant portion of the length of the central rack 110C. The central rack 110C may also include connectors 160 on its proximal surface. Although the retractor system 10 is depicted as having six connectors 160 at a specific location, other embodiments may include a different number of connectors 160. Furthermore, the connectors 160 may be positioned in locations similar to and / or different from the depicted locations.

[0054] In various embodiments, each connector 160 includes a threaded hole 162 and a serrated upper surface 164. The threaded hole 162 can receive the threaded end of a knob, handle, retractor frame arm, etc. For example, Figures 1H to 1I The distal end of a hinge arm 400 of a connector 160, coupled to the top surface of a central rack 110C, is depicted. The hinge arm 400 may be part of a frame assembly. The frame assembly may be a freestanding floor assembly or may be mounted to an operating table via a table rail or other structure. As shown, the distal end of the hinge arm may include a knob 410. The knob 410 may include a head 411 coupled to a threaded shaft 412 passing through the distal end of the hinge arm 400. The threaded shaft 412 may be sized to insert into a threaded hole 162 of the connector 160. Furthermore, the distal end of the hinge arm 400 may include a serrated surface 402 surrounding the threaded shaft 412.

[0055] Thus, the threaded shaft 412 can be inserted into the threaded hole 162 of the connector 160. In some embodiments, a person can manually turn the knob 410 to screw the knob 410 into the connector 160 and tightly engage the serrated surface 402 of the hinge arm 400 with the serrated surface 164 of the connector 160. This engagement between the serrated surfaces 164, 402 prevents the hinge arm 400 from being locked to the connector 160 in a manner that prevents rotation of the hinge arm 400 about the connector 160. Although the knob 410 is shown as having a head 411 suitable for manual turning, in some embodiments, the head of the knob 410 may be designed for turning with a tool. For example, the head of the knob 410 may include a keyway, or may be replaced by a head having a keyway sized to receive a tool. A person can then use such a tool to turn the head 411 to screw the threaded shaft 412 into the threaded hole 162 and attach the hinge arm 400 to the connector 160.

[0056] Figure 1J The distal end of a handle 420 of a connector 160, which is coupled to the top surface of one or more outer carriages 140, is depicted. The handle 420 assists in properly positioning the retractor system 10 relative to the surgical site. The handle 420 may include a handle grip 422, a shaft 424, and a knob 410. The handle grip 422 may be coupled to the proximal end of the shaft 424. A threaded shaft 412 of the knob 410 may pass through the distal end of the shaft 424. Furthermore, the distal end of the shaft 424 may include a serrated surface surrounding the threaded shaft 412.

[0057] Therefore, the handle 420 can be attached to either of the connectors 160 in a similar manner to the hinge arm 400. That is, a person can turn the knob 410 by hand to screw the knob 410 into the connector 160, and cause the serrated surface of the handle 420 to engage tightly with the serrated surface 164 of the connector 160. This engagement between the serrated surfaces prevents the handle 420 from being locked to the connector 160 in a manner that prevents the connector 160 from rotating about the handle 420.

[0058] Now for reference Figures 4A to 4K The retractor blade 120 may include a retractor blade channel 121 configured to receive an intervertebral shim 450. The intervertebral shim 450 may be inserted into the retractor blade channel 121 such that the distal end of the shim extends below the distal end of the retractor blade 120. For this purpose, the retractor blade channel 121 may include a channel recess 123 (see example...). Figure 4HThe channel recess 123 extends longitudinally along the frontal surface of the retractor blade 120 from the proximal end of the retractor blade 120 toward the distal end of the retractor blade 120. In some embodiments, the channel recess 123 closes toward the distal end of the retractor blade 120 to provide a stop against which the intervertebral pad 450 can be positioned. As further shown, the retractor blade channel 121 can extend through both the proximal and distal ends of the retractor blade 120. In particular, the retractor blade channel 121 can extend through the proximal end of the retractor blade 120 to receive the intervertebral pad 450. The retractor blade channel 121 can extend through the distal end of the retractor blade 120 to allow the distal end of the intervertebral pad 450 to extend beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 120.

[0059] Each intervertebral disc 450 may include a disc flange 460 extending across the longitudinal edge of the intervertebral disc 450 and a disc threaded hole 470 located at the proximal end of the intervertebral disc 450. Specifically, the proximal edge of each disc flange 460 may be attached to the corresponding longitudinal edge of the intervertebral disc 450. Thus, the distal end of each disc flange 460 may protrude from the longitudinal edge of the intervertebral disc 450. Furthermore, the distal end of each disc flange 460 may be sized to fit snugly with the corresponding channel recess 123 when inserted into the retractor blade channel 121.

[0060] The gasket threaded hole 470 can receive the threaded distal end 482 of the gasket insertion tool 480. Specifically, the gasket insertion tool 480 may include an insertion tool shaft 481, an insertion tool handle 483, an insertion tool shoulder 484, and an insertion tool collar 486. The insertion tool shaft 481 may include a proximal end and a threaded distal end 482. The proximal end of the insertion tool shaft 481 can be coupled to the insertion tool handle 483. The insertion tool shoulder 484 can be positioned toward the threaded distal end 482 of the insertion tool shaft 481. In such an embodiment, the gasket insertion tool 480 can be attached to the intervertebral disc 450 by screwing the threaded distal end 482 into the gasket threaded hole 470 until the insertion tool shoulder 484 engages the proximal end of the intervertebral disc 450.

[0061] The insertion tool collar 486 is slidable along the insertion tool shaft 481. The insertion tool collar 486 may include a collar flange 487 that engages a channel recess 123 when inserted into the retractor blade channel 121. Furthermore, the insertion tool collar 486 may include a shoulder 489 that rests on the proximal end of the retractor blade 120 when inserted into the retractor blade channel 121. The insertion tool collar 486 helps center the insertion tool shaft 481 within the retractor blade channel 121 while the shim insertion tool 480 properly positions the intervertebral shim 450 in the distal end of the retractor blade 120. The insertion tool collar 486 reduces the risk of damaging the threaded distal end 482 of the insertion tool 480 and reduces the risk of the threaded distal end 482 sticking to the intervertebral shim 450.

[0062] Therefore, a person can insert the intervertebral disc 450 into the retractor blade 120 by screwing the disc insertion tool 480 into the disc threaded hole 470. Using the disc insertion tool 480, a person can insert the intervertebral disc 450 and the insertion tool collar 486 into the retractor blade channel 121 via the proximal end of the retractor blade 120. The person can further slide the intervertebral disc 450 to the bottom of the retractor blade channel 121 via the disc insertion tool 480, such that the intervertebral disc 450 extends beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 120. After positioning against the bottom of the retractor blade channel 121, the person can unscrew the disc insertion tool 480 from the disc threaded hole 470, thereby separating the disc insertion tool 480 from the intervertebral disc 450. The person can then remove the disc insertion tool 480, including the insertion tool collar 486, from the retractor blade channel 121. The process can be essentially reversed to remove the intervertebral disc 450 from the retractor blade channel 121.

[0063] Now for reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B Each outer retractor arm 130 may include an attachment post 170 at its distal end. The attachment post 170 may include a head 172 and a shaft 174. Specifically, the attachment posts 170 may extend from the outer retractor arms 130 parallel to or substantially parallel to each other. Furthermore, the angle α between the outer racks 110 may be set to maintain the attachment posts 170 parallel to or substantially parallel to each other as the outer carriage 140 traverses the outer racks 110. See, for example... Figure 1B and Figure 1E .

[0064] Such an attachment post 170 allows accessories (such as lights, suction devices, retractor blades, etc.) to be attached to the distal end of the outer retractor arm 130. For example, as Figures 1K to 1MAs shown, the retractor blade 180 can be attached to the distal end of the outer retractor arm 130 via an attachment post 170. As shown, the retractor blade 180 may include a blade 182 and a handle 184 coupled to the proximal end of the blade 182. Furthermore, the retractor blade 180 may include an attachment plate 166 extending laterally across the front side of the blade 182. The attachment plate 166 may include a longitudinal slot 168 extending across its length. Additionally, the attachment plate 166 may include a slot inlet 169 sized to receive the attachment post 170 and allow the attachment post 170 to be received into the longitudinal slot 168. In some embodiments, the slot inlet 169 may be implemented as an aperture positioned near the end of the longitudinal slot 168. However, in other embodiments, the slot inlet 169 may be located at other locations along the longitudinal slot 168. In addition, the slot inlet 169 can be implemented as a lateral slot extending from the longitudinal slot 168 through the upper edge, lower edge or other edge of the attachment plate 166.

[0065] In some embodiments, the slot inlet 169 may include an aperture with a diameter slightly larger than that of the attachment post head 172. Furthermore, the longitudinal slot 168 may have a lateral width slightly larger than the diameter of the attachment post shaft 174. In this way, the retractor blade 180 can be attached to the distal end of the retractor arm 130 by allowing the attachment post head 172 to pass continuously through the slot inlet 169 and by allowing the attachment post 170 to slide along the longitudinal slot 168 in such a way that the attachment post shaft 174 is tightly engaged with the sidewall of the longitudinal slot 168.

[0066] Now for reference Figures 5A to 5G Another attachment suitable for attachment to the distal end of the external retractor arm 130 is shown. Specifically, a fan blade 500 is depicted. The fan blade 500 may include a stack of planar blades 510, an attachment plate 520, and a handle 530. The attachment plate 520 may include a longitudinal slot 522, a slot inlet 524, and a notch 526. The longitudinal slot 522 may traverse a portion of the attachment plate 520. The notch 526 may extend laterally from the lower edge of the attachment plate 520 toward the central portion of the attachment plate 520. The lateral width of the notch 526 may be greater than the diameter of the attachment post shaft 174 but smaller than the diameter of the attachment post head 172. Thus, since the attachment post head 172 is too large to pass through the notch 526, the notch 526 can receive the attachment post shaft 174 and hold the received attachment post 170.

[0067] As shown, the slot inlet 524 leading to the longitudinal slot 522 can be implemented as a hole positioned near the end of the longitudinal slot 522. However, in other embodiments, the slot inlet 524 can be located at other locations along the longitudinal slot 522. Alternatively, the slot inlet 524 can be implemented as a lateral slot extending from the longitudinal slot 522 through the upper edge, lower edge, or other edge of the attachment plate 520. In some embodiments, the slot inlet 524 may include a hole with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the attachment post head 172. Furthermore, the longitudinal slot 522 may have a lateral width slightly larger than the diameter of the attachment post shaft 174. In this way, the fan blade 500 can be attached to the distal end of the puller arm 130 by passing the attachment post head 172 through the slot inlet 524, sliding the attachment post 170 along the longitudinal slot 168 in such a way that the attachment post shaft 174 is tightly engaged with the sidewall of the longitudinal slot 168, arranging the notch 526 above the attachment post shaft 174 of another attachment post 170, and sliding the notch 526 on the attachment post shaft 174.

[0068] Fasteners 512 (such as screws) can pass through a pivot hole at the proximal end of blade 510 and pivotally attach blade 510 to handle mount 532 of handle 530. Specifically, fastener 512 may include a threaded shaft that mates with a threaded hole in handle mount 532 and a head 514 that confines blade 510 between head 514 and handle mount 532. As a result of this attachment, blade 510 can pivot about fastener 512 to fan out the distal end of blade 510, such as... Figures 5A to 5D As shown.

[0069] like Figure 5C As shown, the handle 530 may include a handle mount 532, a handle shaft 537, and a handle grip 536. The handle mount 532 of the handle 530 may include a recessed shaft 534. Furthermore, the handle shaft 537 may include a shaft hole 538 in a distal portion of the handle shaft 537. The shaft hole 538 in the distal portion of the handle shaft 537 may be sized to receive the recessed shaft 534 of the handle mount 532. The distal portion of the handle shaft 537 may include a spring-biased pawl (not shown) having a distal end that extends into the shaft hole 538 and engages with the recess of the recessed shaft 534 when inserted into the shaft hole 538. A handle release button 540 of the handle 530 can be pressed to retract the distal end of the pawl from the shaft hole 538 and disengage the distal end of the pawl from the recessed shaft 534. By pressing the handle release button 540, a person can release the handle 530 from the handle mount 532 and remove the handle 530 from the fan blade 500.

[0070] Blades 180 and 500 are shown with different attachment plates 166 and 520 and different handles 184 and 530. However, in various embodiments, blades 180 and 500 may be implemented using attachment plates 166 and 520 and / or handles 184 and 530.

[0071] like Figures 6A to 6J As shown, the retractor blade 120 may include a fin channel 122 configured to receive the blade fin 600. The blade fin 600 may be attached to the retractor blade 120 via the fin channel 122 to effectively extend the lateral width of the retractor blade 120. See, for example... Figure 1K and Figure 1M For this purpose, each fin channel 122 may traverse the longitudinal side of the retractor blade 120. Each fin channel 122 may include a fin channel opening 124 at the proximal end of the retractor blade 120. Furthermore, each fin channel 122 may include a longitudinal opening 126 extending along at least a portion of the longitudinal side of the retractor blade 120. Each fin channel opening 124 may have a lateral width greater than the lateral width of the longitudinal opening 126.

[0072] Each blade fin 600 may include a blade fin flange 610 extending across the longitudinal edge of the blade fin 600 and a blade fin threaded hole 620 at the proximal end of the blade fin 600. Specifically, the proximal edge of the blade fin flange 610 is attached to the blade fin 600 along the longitudinal edge of the blade fin 600. Thus, the distal end of the blade fin flange 610 protrudes from the longitudinal edge of the blade fin 600. Furthermore, the distal end of the blade fin flange 610 may be keyed to fit snugly with a fin channel opening 124 in the proximal end of the retractor blade 120. Additionally, the dimensions of the proximal and intermediate portions of the flange 610 may be designed to fit snugly with a longitudinal opening 126 along the longitudinal edge of the retractor blade 120. Therefore, the keyed distal end of the blade fin flange 610 may be enlarged relative to the proximal and intermediate portions of the blade fin flange 610. Therefore, once inserted into the fin channel 122 via the fin channel opening 124, the blade fin flange 610 can be laterally confined within the fin channel 122 because the distal end of the key is too large to be laterally removed from the fin channel 122 via the longitudinal opening 126.

[0073] The blade fin threaded hole 620 can receive the threaded end 632 of the fin insertion tool 630. Specifically, the fin insertion tool 630 may include a handle grip 631 and an insertion tool shaft 633, the insertion tool shaft including a proximal end coupled to the handle grip and a distal end providing the threaded end 632 of the fin insertion tool 630. The threaded end 632 can be screwed into the blade fin threaded hole 620 via rotation of the handle grip 631. In some embodiments, the fin insertion tool 630 may include an insertion tool shoulder 634 facing the threaded end 632. In such embodiments, the fin insertion tool 630 can be properly positioned or attached to the blade fin 600 by screwing the threaded end 632 into the fin threaded hole 620 until the insertion tool shoulder 634 engages the proximal end of the blade fin 600. In some embodiments, a gasket insertion tool 480 may be used as the fin insertion tool 630.

[0074] Specifically, the fin insertion tool 630 may include an insertion tool handle 631, an insertion tool shaft 633, an insertion tool shoulder 634, and an insertion tool collar 636. The insertion tool shaft 633 may include a proximal end and a threaded distal end 632. The proximal end of the insertion tool shaft 633 may be coupled to the insertion tool handle 631. The insertion tool shoulder 634 may be positioned toward the threaded distal end 632 of the insertion tool shaft 633. In such an embodiment, the fin insertion tool 630 can be attached to the blade fin 600 by screwing the threaded distal end 632 into the fin threaded hole 620 until the insertion tool shoulder 634 engages the proximal end of the blade fin 600.

[0075] A person can attach the blade fin 600 to the retractor blade 120 by screwing the fin insertion tool 630 into the fin threaded hole 620. Using the fin insertion tool 630, a person can insert the keyed distal end of the blade fin flange 610 into the fin channel opening 124 in the proximal end of the retractor blade 120. The person can further slide the blade fin 600 to the bottom of the fin channel 122 via the fin insertion tool 630. After positioning against the bottom of the fin channel 122, the person can unscrew the fin insertion tool 630 from the fin threaded hole 620 and separate the fin insertion tool 630 from the blade fin 600. The process can be substantially reversed to remove the blade fin 600 from the fin channel 122 of the retractor blade 120. In some embodiments, the same insertion tool can be used as both the shim insertion tool 480 and the fin insertion tool 630, thus depicting a design similar to... Figure 6A The shim insertion tool 480 has a similar collar to the collar 486.

[0076] like Figures 7A to 7C As shown, other types of blades can be combined with Figures 1A to 1MThe lung blade 700 is used in conjunction with the retractor system 10. For example, the lung blade 700 may be attached to the central retractor arm 130C for use in certain surgeries, such as when approaching the thoracic spine. Similar to the retractor blade 120, the lung blade 700 may be a telescopic blade. In particular, the lung blade 700 may include a proximal portion having a retractor blade track 305 along the posterior side of the lung blade 700, which engages the retractor arm channel 270 of the central retractor arm 130C or the retractor arm channel 270 of one or more external retractor arms 130. In this way, the central retractor arm 130C may traverse the retractor blade track 305 to adjust the vertical positioning of the lung blade 700 within the surgical site. As further shown, the lung blade 700 may include a plurality of rods 710 extending from the proximal portion to define a mesh blade. In the depicted embodiment, the front and back surfaces of the lung blade 700 are primarily open spaces. However, other implementations may include additional rods 710 and / or other structures, thereby allowing for a smaller amount of open space on the front and / or back surfaces.

[0077] Now for reference Figures 8A to 8C The diagram illustrates a handle 530 and a quick-connect mount 840. Specifically, the handle 530 can be attached to a connector 160 on the top surface of the external rack 110 via the quick-connect mount 840. The handle 530 may include a handle grip 536 attached to a handle shaft 537. Furthermore, the distal end of the handle shaft 537 may include a shaft bore 538 sized to receive a recessed shaft 844 of the quick-connect mount 840. The distal portion of the handle shaft 537 may also include a spring-biased pawl (not shown) having a distal end that extends into the shaft bore 538 and engages the recessed shaft 844 when the shaft bore 538 receives the recessed shaft 844. A handle release button 540 of the handle 530, when pressed, can retract the pawl from the bore 538 and disengage the pawl from the recessed shaft 844. Therefore, by pressing the handle release button 540, a person can release the handle 530 from the mounting 840 and remove the handle 530 from the retractor system 10, while leaving the quick-connect mounting 840 attached to the connector 160.

[0078] The quick-connect mount 840 may include a knob 410 having a threaded shaft 412 passing through a base portion of the quick-connect mount 840. Furthermore, the base portion of the quick-connect mount 840 may include a serrated surface 842 surrounding the threaded shaft 412. Therefore, the quick-connect mount 840 and its notched shaft 844 can be attached to either of the connectors 160 in a manner similar to that of the hinge arm 400. That is, a person can manually turn the knob 410 to screw it into the connector 160, and the serrated surface 842 of the quick-connect mount 840 engages tightly with the serrated surface 164 of the connector 160. This engagement between the serrated surfaces prevents the quick-connect mount 840 from locking onto the connector 160 in a manner that prevents rotation of the quick-connect mount 840 about the connector 160. Once the quick-connect mounting 840 is secured to the connector 160, a person can quickly attach the handle 530 to and detach it from the retractor system 10 via the quick-connect mounting 840.

[0079] Now for reference Figures 10A to 10C The handle 900 is shown as a connector 160 attached to the top surface of the outer carriage 140. The handle 900 may include a head 910, a threaded shaft 920, a handle base 930, and a handle grip 940. The threaded shaft 920 may pass through the handle grip 940 and the handle base 930, thereby confining the handle grip 940 between the head 910 and the handle base 930. The underside of the handle base 930 may include a serrated surface 932 surrounding the threaded shaft 920.

[0080] In one embodiment, the handle grip 940 is formed into a spherical handle grip by overmolding the threaded shaft 920 in silicone. However, in some embodiments, the handle grip 940 may be formed from different materials and / or different processes. Furthermore, the handle grip 940 may be formed into different shapes (e.g., a screwdriver handle grip).

[0081] Therefore, the handle 900 and its handle grip 940 can be attached to either of the connectors 160 in a manner similar to that of the knob 410. That is, a person can manually turn the handle 900 via the head 910 and / or the handle grip 940 to screw the threaded shaft 920 into the connector 160 and to tightly engage the serrated surface 932 with the serrated surface 164 of the connector 160. This engagement between the serrated surfaces prevents the handle 900 and its handle grip 940 from locking to the connector 160 by means of rotation about the connector 160. Although the handle 900 is shown as having a head 910 suitable for manual turning, in some embodiments, the head 910 may be designed for turning with a tool. For example, the head 910 may include a keyway, or may be replaced by a head having a keyway sized to receive a tool. A person can then use such a tool to turn the head 910 to attach the handle 900 to the connector 160. Once secured to connector 160, a person can grasp head 910 and / or handle grip 940 to position the retractor system 10.

[0082] Now for reference Figures 2A to 2S An embodiment of the retractor system 11 is illustrated. As depicted, the retractor system 11 may include a single rack 110S to which two outer carriages 140 are coupled. The retractor system 11 may also include an outer retractor arm 130 that attaches the retractor blade 1120 to a corresponding outer carriage 140. In various embodiments, the outer retractor arm 130 and the outer carriages 140 of the retractor system 11 may be coupled with… Figures 1A to 1M The outer retractor arm 130 and outer carriage 140 of the retractor system 10 shown are implemented in the same manner. For example, retractor blades 1120 may each include a retractor blade track 305 along the rear side of the retractor blade 1120. Similarly, the retractor arm channel 270 in the outer retractor arm 130 may engage and traverse the retractor blade track 305 of the retractor blade 1120 in the same manner as the outer retractor arm 130 of the retractor system 10 engages and traverses the retractor blade track 305 of the retractor blade 1120.

[0083] However, the retractor blade 1120 can have a different geometry than the retractor blade 120. Specifically, the dimensions of the two retractor blades 1120 of the retractor system 11 can be designed such that… Figure 2A As shown, when they come together, they form a cylinder. However, Figures 1A to 1MThe retractor system 10 utilizes three retractor blades 120 to form a cylinder when brought together. Furthermore, the retractor blades 1120 may not have fin channels 122, which are used by the retractor blades 120 to attach blade fins. Alternatively, the retractor blades 1120 may not have retractor blade channels 121, which are used by the retractor blades 120 to attach... Figures 12A to 13B The intervertebral pad 450 or the retractor blade handle 1000, 1001. However, in some embodiments, the retractor blade 1120 may be modified to include a similar fin channel 122 to allow attachment of the blade fin and / or include a retractor blade channel 121 to allow attachment of the intervertebral pad 450 or the retractor blade handle 1000, 1001.

[0084] Instead of the channels 121, 122 described above, or in addition to the channels described above, the retractor blade 1120 may include an attachment channel 1121 extending outwards towards its edge for receiving and / or attaching attachments. Each attachment channel 1121 may include an upper opening 1123 facing the proximal end of the retractor blade 1120 and may extend to a lower opening 1124 in the front surface of the retractor blade 1120. See, for example... Figure 2G Such an accessory channel 1121 can allow attachment of accessories, such as a light for illuminating the surgical site.

[0085] like Figures 2G to 2S As shown, the retractor system 11 may further include a central rack 110C, which is detachably connected to the straight rack 110S via a central carriage 1140. The retractor system 11 also includes a central retractor arm 130C, which attaches the retractor blade 120 to the central rack 110C. In various embodiments, the central rack 110C, retractor blade 120, and central retractor arm 130C of the retractor system 11 may be implemented in the same manner as the central rack 110C, retractor blade 120, and central retractor arm 130C of the retractor system 10.

[0086] Similar to carriages 140 and 140C, the central carriage 1140 may include a pinion 1136 having a head 1137 and teeth that engage with rack teeth 114C of the central rack 110C. The head 1137 may include a socket 1139 for receiving a tool that can rotate the pinion 1136. Through rotation of the pinion 1136 and its engagement with the rack teeth 114C, the pinion 1136 can impart ratchet motion to the central carriage 1140 relative to the central rack 110C.

[0087] However, unlike carriages 140 and 140C, the central carriage 1140 can be pivotally connected to the attachment base 1150. The attachment base 1150 may include an attachment base channel 1152 extending through the lateral side of the attachment base 1150. Furthermore, the rear side of the attachment base channel 1152 may be closed, while the front side of the attachment base channel 1152 may be open to the front side of the attachment base 1150. The dimensions of the attachment base channel 1152 may be designed to engage tightly with the rack 110S when received by the attachment base channel 1152.

[0088] As further shown, the lower front portion of the central carriage 1140 is attached to the upper front portion of the attachment base 1150 via a pivot joint 1170. Specifically, the pivot joint 1170 may include one or more pivot pins passing through openings in the lateral sides of the attachment base 1150 and the central carriage 1140, thereby forming a pivot axis through the lateral sides of the attachment base 1150 and the central carriage 1140. Therefore, the central carriage 1140 may be tilted or angled with respect to the attachment base 1150 and the central rack 110C.

[0089] Furthermore, the central carriage 1140 may include a pinion body 1143 extending from the lower surface of the central carriage 1140 into the attachment base 1150. The attachment base 1150 may also include a button 1153 located at the proximal end of a pawl 1154. The button 1153 and the pawl 1154 may be spring-biased such that the distal end of the pawl 1154 is biased toward and engages the rack teeth 1142 of the pinion body 1143. The distal end of the pawl 1154 and / or the rack teeth 1142 of the pinion body 1143 may be angled such that the central carriage 1140 may pivot in a first direction in which the rear portion of the central carriage 1140 moves away from the attachment base 1150 without first disengaging the distal end of the pawl 1154 by, for example, pressing the button 1153. Conversely, the distal end of the pawl 1154 and / or the rack teeth 1142 of the pinion body 1143 may be angled to prevent the central carriage 1140 from pivoting in a second direction opposite to the first direction without first disengaging the distal end of the pawl 1154 from the rack teeth 1142 by, for example, pressing the button 1153.

[0090] In addition, such as Figure 2R and Figure 2SAs shown, the central carriage 1140 may include a button 1144 and a spring 1145 that biases the button 1144 away from the central carriage 1140. The button 1144 may include a member 1146 extending perpendicular to the outer surface of the button 1144. The member 1146 may include an opening 1147 through which a central rack 110C passes. Furthermore, the distal inner surface of the opening 1147 may include a pawl 1148. When biased away from the central carriage 1140, the distal end of the pawl 1148 may engage one or more rack teeth 114C of the central rack 110C. In one embodiment, the distal end of the pawl 1148 and / or the rack teeth 114C are angled such that when the distal end of the pawl 1148 engages with the rack teeth 114C, rotation of the pinion 1136 may move the central rack 110C relative to the central carriage 1140 in a first direction, but prevent the central rack 110C from moving in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Therefore, in order to move the central rack 110C in the second direction via the rotation of the pinion 1136, a person can first press the button 1144 to disengage the distal end of the pawl 1148 from the rack teeth 114C and allow movement in the second direction.

[0091] Now for reference Figures 11A to 11B An embodiment of the retractor system 12 is shown. As depicted, the retractor system 12 can be similar to... Figures 1A to 1M The puller system 10 is used for implementation. However, as shown, the proximal end of the outer rack 110 is fixed to the lateral side of the central carriage 140C, such that the outer rack 110 extends from the central carriage 140C and forms an interior angle α of 180° relative to each other. See, for example... Figure 9 Therefore, the outer rack 110 of the rack assembly 100 can be provided with a straight rack that is substantially similar to the straight rack 110S of the retractor system 11.

[0092] Furthermore, the retractor system 12 may include retractor blades 1120 of the retractor system 11, which have a different geometry than the retractor blades 120. That is, the dimensions of the two retractor blades 1120 of the retractor system 12 can be designed such that... Figure 11B As shown, when they are gathered together, they form a cylinder.

[0093] As shown, the retractor system 12 may include an outer retractor arm 131, which may be implemented in a similar manner to the retractor arm 130 of retractor systems 10 and 11. However, the outer retractor arm 131 replaces the blade release button 290 of the outer retractor arm 130 with a retaining screw 291 at the proximal end of a pawl 297. The retaining screw 291 may be operated in a similar manner to the blade release button 290. That is, a person may press the head 293 of the retaining screw 291 to overcome the biasing force applied by a spring (not shown) and pivot the pawl 297 about the pivot pin 292 and the distal end of the pawl 297 toward the fully disengaged position. In the fully disengaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 may disengage from the track latch 310 (e.g., hole, slot, recess, notch, tooth, etc.) of the retractor blade 1120 to allow the retractor blade 1120 to slide along the retractor arm channel 270. Conversely, the pressure on the head 293 of the retaining screw can be released to bias the spring, causing the pawl 297 to pivot about the pivot pin 292 and the distal end of the pawl toward a fully engaged position. In the fully engaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 extends from the distal end of the outer retractor arm 130 into the retractor arm channel 270. In this engaged position, the distal end of the pawl 297 engages the track latch 310 of the retractor blade 1120 and holds the retractor blade 120 in a specific position along the retractor blade track 305.

[0094] However, unlike the blade release button 290, a person can rotate the retaining screw 291 via the head 293 in a first direction or tightening direction. This rotation pulls the retaining screw 291 into the proximal end of the pawl 297, and more specifically, pulls the head 293 of the retaining screw 291 toward the surface of the retractor arm 130. The person can continue to tighten the retaining screw 291 until the head 293 abuts against or tightly engages with the surface of the retractor arm 130. In such a position, the head 293 prevents the person from fully pressing the proximal end of the pawl 297 into the retractor arm 130 to disengage the distal end of the pawl 297 from the track lock 310. Thus, by tightening the retaining screw 291, the person can effectively lock the retractor arm 130 to a specific position along the retractor blade 1120. Conversely, a person can rotate the retaining screw via the head 293 in a second direction or loosening direction to pull the head 293 back from the surface of the retractor arm 130. When fully pulled back, the person can press the head 293 again to disengage the distal end 297 of the pawl from the track lock 310.

[0095] Now for reference Figures 12A to 12BAn embodiment of a retractor blade handle 1000 is shown. As shown, the retractor blade handle 1000 may include a handle grip 1010 and a handle shaft 1020 extending from the handle grip 1010. In particular, the proximal end of the handle shaft 1020 may be coupled to the handle grip 1010 such that the handle shaft 1020 extends longitudinally away from the handle grip 1010, and a handle shoulder 1012 extends laterally beyond the handle shaft 1020.

[0096] The distal end of the handle shaft 1020 can be rounded or tapered to facilitate insertion of the handle shaft 1020 into the retractor blade channel 121 of the retractor blades 120, 1120. For this purpose, the handle shaft 1020 can be shaped to engage the retractor blade channel 121 in a manner similar to that of the intervertebral pad 450. Specifically, the handle shaft 1020 may include a shaft flange 1030 that traverses the longitudinal edge of the handle shaft 1020 in a manner similar to how the pad flange 460 traverses the longitudinal edge of the intervertebral pad 450. The proximal edge of each shaft flange 1030 can be attached to a corresponding longitudinal edge of the handle shaft 1020. Thus, the distal end of each shaft flange 1030 can protrude from the longitudinal edge of the handle shaft 1020. Furthermore, the distal end of each shaft flange 1030 can be dimensioned to fit snugly into a corresponding channel recess 123 when inserted into the retractor blade channel 121.

[0097] Furthermore, the retractor blade handle 1000 may include a leaf spring 1030 extending longitudinally along the handle shaft 1020. Specifically, the leaf spring 1030 may be positioned in a longitudinal slot 1040 spanning the handle grip 1010 and the handle shaft 1020. The proximal end of the leaf spring 1030 may be coupled to the handle grip 1010 at the upper end of the longitudinal slot 1040. The distal end may extend toward the lower end of the longitudinal slot 1040, but remain freely detached from the lower end of the longitudinal slot. Additionally, the distal end of the leaf spring 1030 may include a knob or pawl 1032 protruding from the longitudinal slot 1040. When the handle shaft 1020 slides into or is otherwise received by the retractor blade channel 121, the pawl 1032 may engage the front side of the retractor blades 120, 1120. Specifically, the pawl 1032 can deflect the leaf spring 1030, causing the pawl 1032 to retract into the longitudinal slot 1040.

[0098] However, when the handle shoulder 1012 is fully positioned against the proximal end of the retractor blades 120, 1120, as... Figure 12BAs shown, the leaf spring 1030 forces the pawl 1032 outward from the longitudinal slot 1040, causing the pawl 1032 to engage a latch (e.g., a hole, recess, groove, tooth, etc.) in the front side of the retractor blades 120, 1120. This engagement of the pawl 1032 with the latch prevents the handle shaft 1020 from being pulled out of the retractor blade channel 121. Thus, once secured to the retractor blades 120, 1120, a person can manipulate and position the retractor blades 120, 1120 via the handle grip 1010 of the retractor blade handle 1000.

[0099] As further shown, the retractor blade handle 1000 may include a handle release button 1050 facing the proximal end of the leaf spring 1030. A person can press the handle release button 1050 to deflect the leaf spring 1030 into the longitudinal slot 1040, which causes the pawl 1032 to retract into the longitudinal slot 1040 and disengage from the latches of the retractor blades 120, 1120. Once disengaged, a person can slide the handle shaft 1020 out of the retractor blade channel 121, and thus separate the retractor blade handle 1000 from the retractor blades 120, 1120.

[0100] Now for reference Figures 13A to 13B An embodiment of a retractor blade handle 1001 is illustrated. As shown, the retractor blade handle 1001 may include a handle grip 1011, a handle shaft 1021, and a handle mount 1031. The handle shaft 1021 extends from the handle grip 1011. Specifically, the proximal end of the handle shaft 1021 may be coupled to the handle grip 1011 such that the handle shaft 1021 extends longitudinally away from the handle grip 1011, and a handle shoulder 1013 extends laterally beyond the handle shaft 1021. Similarly, the handle mount 1031 extends from the handle grip 1011. Specifically, the proximal end of the handle mount 1031 may be coupled to the handle shoulder 1013 such that the handle mount 1031 extends longitudinally away from both the handle grip 1011 and the handle shoulder 1013.

[0101] The distal end of the handle mount 1031 may be rounded or tapered to facilitate insertion of the handle mount 1031 into the retractor blade channel 121 of the retractor blades 120, 1120. For this purpose, the handle mount 1031 may be shaped to engage the retractor blade channel 121 in a manner similar to that of the intervertebral pad 450. Specifically, the handle mount 1031 may include a handle mount flange 1033 that traverses the longitudinal edge of the handle mount 1031 in a manner similar to how the pad flange 460 traverses the longitudinal edge of the intervertebral pad 450. The proximal edge of each handle mount flange 1033 may be attached to a corresponding longitudinal edge of the handle mount 1031. Thus, the distal end of each handle mount flange 1033 may protrude from the longitudinal edge of the handle mount 1031. In addition, the distal end of each handle mounting flange 1033 can be designed to fit tightly with the corresponding channel recess 123 when inserted into the retractor blade channel 121.

[0102] Furthermore, the handle mount 1031 may include a handle mount bearing 1035, which engages the longitudinal side of the handle shaft 1021 when the handle shaft 1021 passes through it. In this way, the handle mount bearing 1035 can constrain the movement of the handle shaft 1021 to rotational movement about the longitudinal axis of the handle shaft 1021. The distal end of the handle shaft 1021 may include a cam 1023 configured to engage the latches of the retractor blades 120, 1120 when the handle mount 1031 slides into or is otherwise received by the retractor blade channel 121. After the handle shoulder 313 is fully positioned against the proximal end of the retractor blades 120, 1120, a person can rotate the handle grip 1011 to rotate the handle shaft 1021 and the cam 1023 at the distal end of the handle shaft 1021. This rotation of cam 1023 engages the latches of retractor blades 120, 1120 and secures the retractor blade handle 1001 to the retractor blades 120, 1120. This engagement of cam 1023 with the latches prevents the handle mount 1031 and handle shaft 1021 from being pulled out of the retractor blade channel 121. Therefore, once secured to the retractor blades 120, 1120, a person can manipulate and position the retractor blades 120, 1120 via the handle grip 1011 of the retractor blade handle 1001.

[0103] Conversely, a person can rotate handle 1011 to rotate cam 1023 away from the latch and disengage cam 1023 from the latch. Once disengaged, a person can slide handle shaft 1021 and handle mount 1031 out of retractor blade channel 121, thereby separating retractor blade handle 1001 from retractor blades 120, 1120.

[0104] While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to one or more specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to cover all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A puller system, comprising: The first retractor arm includes a proximal end of the first retractor arm, a distal end of the first retractor arm, and a first retractor arm channel extending through the distal end of the first retractor arm. as well as The first retractor blade includes a first retractor blade proximal end, a first retractor blade distal end, and a first retractor blade track extending longitudinally between the first retractor blade proximal end and the first retractor blade distal end. and The first retractor arm channel is configured to engage the first retractor blade track and selectively position the distal end of the first retractor arm along the first retractor blade track.

2. The puller system according to claim 1, comprising: A first rack includes a first guide rail and first rack teeth, wherein the first guide rail includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first rack teeth are distributed along the first guide rail between the first end and the second end; and A first carriage includes a first carriage opening and a first pinion, wherein a first guide rail passes through the first carriage opening, and wherein the first pinion includes first pinion teeth that engage with first rack teeth and cause the first carriage to move along the first guide rail based on rotation of the first pinion; and The first retractor arm is connected to the first carriage at its proximal end and is selectively positioned along the first guide rail via the first carriage.

3. The puller system according to claim 2, wherein: The first carriage includes a first carriage rod and a first carriage pawl; The first carriage rod selectively engages the first carriage pawl with the first rack teeth; and When the first carriage pawl engages with the first rack, it allows the first carriage to move along the first guide rail in a first direction, but prevents the first carriage from moving along the first guide rail in a second direction.

4. The puller system according to claim 2, comprising: The second rack includes a second guide rail and second rack teeth, wherein the second guide rail includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the second rack teeth are distributed along the second guide rail between the first end and the second end. A second carriage includes a second carriage opening and a second pinion, wherein a second guide rail passes through the second carriage opening, and wherein the second pinion includes second pinion teeth that engage with second rack teeth and cause the second carriage to move along the second guide rail based on rotation of the second pinion; and The second retractor arm includes a proximal end of the second retractor arm, a distal end of the second retractor arm, and a second retractor arm channel extending through the distal end of the second retractor arm, wherein the proximal end of the second retractor arm is coupled to the second carriage and selectively positioned along the second guide rail via the second carriage.

5. The puller system according to claim 4, comprising: The second retractor blade includes a second retractor blade proximal end, a second retractor blade distal end, and a second retractor blade track extending longitudinally between the second retractor blade proximal end and the second retractor blade distal end. and The second retractor arm channel is configured to engage the second retractor blade track and selectively position the distal end of the second retractor arm along the second retractor blade track.

6. The puller system according to claim 4, comprising: A central rack includes a central guide rail and central rack teeth, wherein the central guide rail includes a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the central rack teeth are distributed along the central guide rail between the proximal end and the distal end. A central retractor arm includes: a proximal end of the central retractor arm, connected to the distal end of the central guide rail; a distal end of the central retractor arm; and a central retractor arm channel extending through the distal end of the central retractor arm; and A central carriage includes a central carriage opening and a central carriage pinion, wherein a central guide rail passes through the central carriage opening, and wherein the central carriage pinion includes central carriage pinion teeth that engage with the central rack teeth and cause the central carriage to move along the central guide rail based on the rotation of the central carriage pinion; and The first end of the first guide rail is connected to the first lateral side of the central carriage, and the second end of the second guide rail is connected to the second lateral side of the central carriage.

7. The puller system according to claim 6, comprising: The second retractor blade includes a proximal end of the second retractor blade, a distal end of the second retractor blade, and a second retractor blade track extending longitudinally between the proximal end and the distal end of the second retractor blade, wherein the second retractor arm channel is configured to engage the second retractor blade track and selectively position the distal end of the second retractor arm along the second retractor blade track; and A central retractor blade includes a central retractor blade proximal end, a central retractor blade distal end, and a central retractor blade track extending longitudinally between the central retractor blade proximal end and the central retractor blade distal end, wherein the central retractor arm channel is configured to engage the central retractor blade track and selectively position the central retractor arm distal end along the central retractor blade track.

8. The puller system according to claim 2, comprising: A second carriage includes a second carriage opening and a second pinion, wherein a first guide rail passes through the second carriage opening, and wherein the second pinion includes second pinion teeth that engage with the first rack teeth and cause the second carriage to move along the first guide rail based on rotation of the second pinion; and The second retractor arm includes a proximal end of the second retractor arm, a distal end of the second retractor arm, and a second retractor arm channel extending through the distal end of the second retractor arm, wherein the proximal end of the second retractor arm is coupled to the second carriage and selectively positioned along the first guide rail via the second carriage.

9. The puller system according to claim 8, comprising: A central rack includes a central guide rail and central rack teeth, wherein the central guide rail includes a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the central rack teeth are distributed along the central guide rail between the proximal end and the distal end; and A central carriage is connected to the first guide rail between a first end and a second end of the first guide rail. The central carriage includes a central carriage opening and a central carriage pinion. The central guide rail passes through the central carriage opening. The central carriage pinion includes central carriage pinion teeth that engage with the central rack teeth and cause the central carriage to move along the central guide rail based on the rotation of the central carriage pinion.

10. The puller system according to claim 9, comprising: A central retractor arm includes a proximal end of the central retractor arm, a distal end of the central retractor arm, and a central retractor arm channel extending through the distal end of the central retractor arm. and The proximal end of the central traction arm is connected to the distal end of the central guide rail.

11. The puller system according to claim 1, wherein, The first retractor arm channel includes finger-like portions that engage with the guide rail of the first retractor blade track.

12. The puller system according to claim 1, wherein: The first retractor blade track includes a slot distributed between the proximal end and the distal end of the first retractor blade track. and The first retractor arm includes a first retractor arm pawl that extends into the first retractor arm channel and engages a slot in the first retractor blade track.

13. The puller system according to claim 2, wherein, The proximal end of the first retractor arm is connected to the first carriage via a joint that allows the first retractor arm to rotate about an axis extending longitudinally along the first retractor arm.

14. The puller system according to claim 1, comprising: The second retractor arm includes a proximal end of the second retractor arm and a distal end of the second retractor arm; as well as The second retractor blade is connected to the distal end of the second retractor arm; Wherein, the distal end of the first retractor arm includes a first retractor arm attachment post; and The distal end of the second retractor arm includes a second retractor arm attachment post.

15. The retractor system of claim 14, comprising an accessory connected to the first retractor arm and the second retractor arm via a first retractor arm attachment post and a second retractor arm attachment post.

16. The retractor system of claim 14, comprising a third retractor blade connected to the first retractor arm and the second retractor arm via a first retractor arm attachment post and a second retractor arm attachment post.

17. The puller system according to claim 1, wherein: The first retractor blade includes a front side surface of the first retractor blade, a rear side surface of the first retractor blade, and a first retractor blade channel. The first retractor blade track extends along the rear side of the first retractor blade; The first retractor blade channel extends along the front side of the first retractor blade between the proximal end and the distal end of the first retractor blade.

18. The retractor system of claim 17, comprising an intervertebral spacer inserted into a channel of the first retractor blade such that the distal end of the intervertebral spacer protrudes beyond the distal end of the first retractor blade.

19. The retractor system of claim 17, comprising a retractor blade handle, the retractor blade handle being secured to the first retractor blade by insertion into the first retractor blade channel.

20. The puller system according to claim 1, wherein, The first puller blade includes: Along the fin channel on the longitudinal side of the first retractor blade; and The blade fins are fixed to the first retractor blade via the fin channel, thereby extending the lateral width of the first retractor blade.

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