Depth limiter adapter

Abstract

A depth limiter adapter may include a depth limiter guide tube. The depth gauge guide tube may define a hollow interior configured to receive a drill bit such that the drill bit may extend through the depth gauge guide tube. The depth limiter adapter may include a housing including a first end and a second end. There may be a first aperture proximate the first end configured to receive a depth limiter guide tube. There may be a second orifice between the first orifice and the second end. The foot plate may be configured to provide a depth indication. The rod may be configured to be received by the second aperture. The distal end of the rod may be configured to attach to a foot plate. The depth control element may be configured to adjust a position of the foot plate relative to the housing.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. nonprovisional patent application No. 18 / 371,260, filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on September 21, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0002] In a medical context, drill guides are used in surgical procedures requiring drilling. Drill guides are particularly useful in spinal surgery, where extremely high precision is required to avoid injury to the patient from the drill bit. The orientation, position, and depth of the drill bit need to be precise, especially in spinal surgery, because the area near the spine contains nerves and sensitive tissues.

[0003] Existing solutions for borehole guides may not include a depth adjustment mechanism. Alternatively, surgeons may find it difficult to easily ascertain the current depth of the drill bit. In this context, an improved solution for depth limiter adapters is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application generally relates to (e.g., in a medical context) apparatus and methods for handling and manipulating the depth of a drill bit, and more specifically to manipulating the depth of a drill bit in spinal surgery.

[0005] A depth limiter adapter may include a housing. The housing may include a first end and a second end. The second end may be configured to attach to a navigation array. An orifice (e.g., a first orifice) may be present near the first end. The orifice may be configured to receive a depth limiter guide tube. The depth limiter guide tube may be configured to receive a drill bit. For example, the depth limiter guide tube may define a hollow interior configured to receive a drill bit such that the drill bit can extend through the depth limiter guide tube. The orifice may be sized to accommodate different sizes of depth limiter guide tubes. Different sizes of depth limiter guide tubes can be used for different drill bits. The depth limiter guide tube may include an inner sleeve and / or an outer sleeve. The inner sleeve may include a bottom end. The bottom end may include a beveled tip and / or a narrowed bottom orifice. The positioning of the drill bit relative to the anatomical region can be improved by the beveled tip and / or the narrowed bottom orifice.

[0006] Because surgeons must remain focused during surgery, it is desirable to indicate the drill bit's position and depth as easily as possible. Markings may be included on the depth limiter guide tube, such as on the outer surface of the outer sleeve. The markings may include a scale with multiple graduations. The graduations may include, for example, one or more lines. Each of the multiple graduations may be associated with a depth measurement. For example, the depth measurement may be associated with the distance the drill bit extends from the depth limiter guide tube (e.g., the bottom end of the depth limiter guide tube). Markings may be on the inner surface of the depth limiter guide tube, such as on the inner surface of the outer sleeve. Additionally or alternatively, markings may be on the inner and / or outer surfaces of the inner sleeve. For example, the outer and / or inner sleeve may be transparent, and the markings may be visible when viewed from the surrounding environment.

[0007] One or more scale lines can be marked. For example, scale lines can be marked with numbers. This number can be associated with a depth measurement value. Additionally or alternatively, scale lines can include different lengths. Each length can be associated with an increment. For example, three scale line lengths can exist. The first scale line length can be associated with a ten-millimeter increment, the second scale line length can be associated with a five-millimeter increment, and / or the third scale line length can be associated with a one-millimeter increment. Additionally or alternatively, one or more scale line lengths can be associated with a fraction of a distance unit, such as a fraction of a standard distance unit. The standard distance unit can be millimeters, centimeters, inches, or any of these units (e.g., 2 millimeters). Scale line lengths can be associated with length increments. For example, the longest scale line length can be associated with the largest measurement value (e.g., one centimeter and / or one inch), and the smallest scale line length can be associated with the smallest measurement value (e.g., one millimeter, two millimeters, and / or one-sixteenth of an inch). Intermediate measurements can be associated with corresponding scale line length increments.

[0008] The housing may include an opening (e.g., a second opening). The opening (e.g., a second opening) may be located between a first opening and a second end of the housing. The opening (e.g., the second opening) may be configured to receive a rod. The rod may include a proximal end and a distal end. The rod may be configured to attach to a foot plate. For example, the distal end of the rod may be configured to attach to a foot plate. The foot plate may be configured to provide depth indication. For example, the foot plate may be configured to indicate depth by pointing to a mark on the depth limiter guide tube. The foot plate may include a notch. The notch may be configured to at least partially surround the depth limiter guide tube. For example, the notch may be sized to accommodate depth limiter guide tubes of different sizes. Different sizes of depth limiter guide tubes can be used for different drill bits. The notch may include a bevel that, for example, contacts the depth limiter guide tube. The bevel may indicate depth more accurately, for example, by pointing more accurately to a mark. Alternatively or additionally, markings on the foot plate may indicate depth. The markings may include arrows and / or other pointers.

[0009] The depth limiter adapter may include a depth control element. The depth control element may be configured to adjust the position of the footplate relative to the housing and / or the depth limiter guide tube. For example, the depth control element may include a wheel. The wheel may include haptic feedback, such as a textured surface. Additionally or alternatively, the wheel may include one or more ridges. The ridges may be separated by grooves, for example, the spacing between two ridges (e.g., the spacing of a groove) is uniform for any two adjacent ridges.

[0010] A wheel can be configured to rotate, causing the position of the footplate to change as the wheel rotates. For example, a rod can be configured to contact the wheel. As the wheel rotates, the rod can rotate simultaneously. Rotation of the rod causes the footplate to move toward or away from the housing. The rod can contact the wheel at an internal portion. Additionally or alternatively, the rod can contact the wheel at one or more recesses in a groove. The rod can be a threaded rod. For example, the thread can be one or more of the following: helical, straight, tapered, square, V-shaped, trapezoidal, knuckle-shaped, sawtooth-shaped, worm-shaped, single-start, multi-start, metric, British Standard, and / or uniform standard.

[0011] The wheel can be laterally offset from the depth limiter guide tube. For example, the wheel can be located between the depth limiter guide tube and the second end of the housing. This position can be a natural position for the surgeon's hand during use. For example, the surgeon can place one hand on the drill shank and the other on the depth limiter adapter. The wheel can be positioned so that the surgeon's thumb naturally falls near the wheel's location. This makes depth adjustment easy without needing to look at (e.g., continuously look at) the wheel when changing depth. The surgeon's other hand can also naturally fall near the navigation array, where, for example, the movement of the navigation array can be limited by the surgeon's fingers.

[0012] The depth limiter adapter may include a haptic feedback element. The haptic feedback element may be configured to generate haptic feedback. The haptic feedback may include an audible click. The haptic feedback element may be configured to connect to a slot located in the wheel. For example, the haptic feedback element may be a leaf spring, ball bearing, ball pawl, and / or spring element (e.g., other types of springs). The haptic feedback may be generated at least partially by the haptic feedback element. For example, the haptic feedback may include an audible click. A change in depth (e.g., foot position) may be associated with an audible click. Each audible click may be associated with a predetermined change in depth (e.g., foot position). The predetermined change in depth may be, for example, two millimeters. Each audible click and / or predetermined change in depth may be associated with a predetermined rotation of the wheel. For example, the audible click and / or predetermined change in depth may be associated with a 15-degree or 180-degree rotation of the wheel. A 15-degree or 180-degree rotation of the wheel may correspond to a standard height change of the depth limiter guide (e.g., 2 mm). The sensory feedback element may be additionally or alternatively configured to limit the rotational movement of the wheel. A certain amount of pressure (e.g., a predetermined amount) may be required to rotate the wheel. This pressure prevents undesirable rotation of the wheel.

[0013] A depth limiter adapter can be configured to attach to a robot, such as a spinal surgery robot. The robot can be programmed, for example, to position the drill and / or the depth limiter adapter during surgery. The robot may include articulated arms. An example of the robot is described in U.S. Patent 10,987,116B2, entitled “Adjustable drill guides and related methods,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0014] Additional features and advantages are achieved through the system of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of this disclosure are described in detail herein. For a better understanding of this disclosure and its advantages and features, please refer to the specification and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Many aspects of this disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following accompanying drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather the emphasis is on clearly illustrating the principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, throughout the drawings, similar reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. Additionally, each drawing included in this provisional application includes at least a brief description thereon and relevant textual reference numerals that further describe related details.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a view of an example system including a depth limiter adapter attached to the drill and navigation array.

[0017] Figure 2 It is based on Figure 1 The view of the system's depth limiter adapter.

[0018] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 Another view of the depth limiter adapter.

[0019] Figure 3B yes Figure 1 Another view of the depth limiter adapter.

[0020] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The line 4A-4A was cut off according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example depth limiter adapter for the system.

[0021] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 The view of the depth limiter adapter in the first position.

[0022] Figure 5B yes Figure 1 The view of the depth limiter adapter in the second position.

[0023] Figure 6A yes Figure 1 A view of the depth limiter adapter with the guide tube in the first position.

[0024] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A The example depth limiter guide tube is in the second position.

[0025] Figure 7 It includes Figure 1 A view of an example system of depth limiter adapters, where the drill bit is at an example depth. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To complement the brief description provided above and the relevant textual details of each figure, the following description provides additional details of the example implementation.

[0027] This document discloses detailed illustrative examples. However, the specific functional details disclosed herein are merely representative and are intended to describe the example implementations. The examples may take many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the implementations described herein.

[0028] Therefore, while the examples are capable of various modifications and alternatives, the embodiments are shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the examples are not intended to limit the specific forms disclosed. Rather, the examples are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions falling within the scope of the examples.

[0029] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, steps, and / or calculations, these elements, steps, and / or calculations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, step, and / or calculation from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first calculation may be referred to as a second calculation, and similarly, a second step may be referred to as a first step. As used herein, the terms “and / or” and the “ / ” symbol include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the / described” include plural references. It should also be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Therefore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments.

[0031] It should also be noted that in some alternative embodiments, the indicated functions / actions may not occur in the order shown in the figures. For example, depending on the functions / actions involved, two consecutive figures may actually be performed substantially simultaneously, or sometimes in reverse order.

[0032] This document will describe in detail exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure provide vial adapters, systems, and methods as described below.

[0033] Figure 1 This is an example view of system 100, which includes a depth limiter adapter 110 attached to a surgical drill 170 (e.g., or any powered tool) and a navigation array 180. The depth limiter adapter 110 may include a depth limiter guide tube 120, a housing 130, a footplate 140, a rod 150, and a depth control element 160. The surgical drill 170 can be removably inserted through the depth limiter adapter 110 by inserting it into the adapter. The drill 170 can be inserted through the depth limiter adapter 110 near a first end 132. The drill 170 has an attached drill bit 172 with a drill tip 174 that extends through the hollow interior of the depth limiter guide tube 120. The drill tip 174 extends through the opposite end of the depth limiter guide tube 120 (e.g., the bottom end of a robot guide tube 192), such as... Figure 1 As shown, for use in surgery.

[0034] The navigation array 180 may be attached to the depth limiter adapter 110. For example, the navigation array 180 may be attached to the depth limiter adapter 110 near a second end 134. The navigation array 180 may include a tracking element 182. The tracking element may include one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), an ultrasonic transmitter, an electromagnetic field transmitter, and / or a passive tracking element.

[0035] System 100 may include a robotic arm 190 for use by a surgeon during surgery to stabilize system 100. The robotic arm 190 may be detachably connected to the depth limiter guide tube 120 via, for example, a robotic guide tube 192 or other suitable connection structure connected to (e.g., clamped to) the depth limiter guide tube 120. The robotic guide tube 192 may be secured by the robotic arm 190, or alternatively, manually secured by the surgeon.

[0036] A robotic arm 190 and / or a robotic guide tube 192 may hold the casing 126. A drill guide 128 may be inserted into and / or attached to the casing 126. A depth limiter adapter 110 may be attached to the drill 170 such that the housing 130 does not move along the axis of the drill bit 172. The drill 170 and / or (e.g., attached) the depth limiter adapter 110 may be inserted into the casing 126 and / or the drill guide 128. Alternatively, the drill guide 128 may be omitted. The drill 170 and / or (e.g., attached) the depth limiter adapter 110 may be (e.g., directly) inserted into the casing 126.

[0037] Figure 2 And Figure 3 is Figure 1 Different perspective views of the depth limiter adapter 110. Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the depth limiter adapter 110 taken along line 4A-4A. The depth limiter adapter 110 includes a housing 130 having a first end 132 and a second end 134. The first end 132 may be configured for attachment to an instrument, such as a surgical drill and / or a robot. The second end 134 may be configured for attachment to a navigation array 180. The depth limiter adapter 110 may have an attachment mechanism for attaching the navigation array 180 to the depth limiter adapter 110. For example, the attachment mechanism may be a threaded connector 282 with a knob 284 that engages with a threaded port 285 in the depth limiter adapter 110 and a threaded port in the navigation array. The knob 284 can be rotated to tighten or loosen, thereby attaching the navigation array 180 to the depth limiter adapter 110. The depth limiter adapter 110 may mate with a sleeve 126 inserted into a robot guide tube 192.

[0038] The housing 130 includes, for example Figure 2 The first orifice 236 and / or the second orifice 238 are shown. The first orifice may be configured to receive the depth limiter guide tube 120. For example, the diameter of the first orifice 130 may be set to mate with the depth limiter guide tube 120. A cap 226 may be attached to the depth limiter guide tube 120 and configured to hold the depth limiter guide tube 120 in place relative to the first orifice 236. Alternatively, the cap 226 may be integral with the depth limiter guide tube 120. The cap 226 may have, for example... Figure 4 The diameter of the depth limiter guide tube 120 shown is larger. In this case, the size of the first orifice 236 can be set to match the cap 226. The first orifice 236 may include a first diameter 437 near the cap 226 and a second diameter 439 away from the cap 226, such as... Figure 4 As shown. The first diameter 437 may be equal to the second diameter 439. The first diameter 437 may be larger than the second diameter 439 and correspond to the cap size, such that the cap 226 can rest on the housing defining the first orifice 130, while the second diameter 439 may correspond to the diameter of the depth limiter guide tube. This avoids undesirable movement during use of the depth limiter adapter. The depth limiter guide tube 120 can be rigidly attached to the housing 130, for example, by welding it to the housing 130.

[0039] The housing 130 includes a second opening 238. The second opening can be configured to receive the rod 150, such as... Figures 1 to 4 As shown. Rod 150 may at least partially have thread 256, as... Figure 2 As shown. For example, the rod thread 256 can be one or more of the following: helical, straight, tapered, square, V-shaped, trapezoidal, knuckle-shaped, sawtooth-shaped, worm-shaped, single-start, multi-start, metric, British Standard, and / or Uniform Standard threads. The rod includes a proximal end 252 and a distal end 254. A foot plate 140 can be attached to the distal end 254. For example, the foot plate 140 can be detachably connected to the rod 150. Examples of the connection may include a form-fit connection, a pin and hole mechanism, and / or a threaded connection. Alternatively, the foot plate 140 can be welded to the rod 150 and / or attached with an adhesive (e.g., glue). The foot plate 140 can abut against a drill guide, such that the foot plate 140 is movable relative to the drill guide.

[0040] The depth control element 160 may be at least partially disposed within the housing 130, such as Figures 1 to 4As shown. Alternatively, the depth control element 160 may be disposed on either side of the housing (e.g., in such cases it may be solid), and / or may be rotatably fixed to the housing. The depth control element 160 may be configured to adjust the position of the foot plate 140 relative to the housing 130, for example, by rotation. The depth control element 160 may be a wheel having a notched exterior 366, a central bore 367, and a threaded interior 368, as shown. Figure 3A As shown. The notched exterior 366 assists the user in gripping and / or rotating the depth control element 160. The user can rotate the threaded exterior of the depth control element 160 to cause translational movement of the rod 150 and the footplate 140. The rod thread engages in a drive-like manner with the threaded interior of the depth control element 160, such that the rod 150 moves axially when the depth control element 160 is rotated. The positions of the rod 150 and the footplate 140 can be adjusted relative to the housing 130 as the depth control element 160 moves (e.g., rotates). For example, the rod 150 and the footplate 140 can move simultaneously relative to the housing 130 as the depth control element 160 moves. The rod 150 can move toward or away from the housing 130 together with the footplate 140, for example, depending on the direction of rotation of the depth control element 160.

[0041] The depth control element 160 can provide tactile feedback. For example, the depth control element 160 may include a textured surface. The depth control element 160 may include one or more ridges or notches 362. Each ridge 362 may be separated by a recess 364, for example, the spacing between two ridges 362 (e.g., the spacing of a recess) is uniform for any two adjacent ridges. Each ridge 362 and / or recess 364 may correspond to a predetermined variation in depth (e.g., the position of the footplate 340).

[0042] The depth control element 160 may be laterally offset from the depth limiter guide tube 120. For example, the depth control element 160 may be located between the depth limiter guide tube 120 and the second end 134 of the housing 130. This position can be a natural position for the user's hand. For example, the user may place one hand on the drill and the other hand on the depth limiter adapter 110. The depth control element 160 may be positioned such that the user's thumb or forefinger naturally falls near the location of the depth control element 160. This makes depth adjustment easy without needing to look at (e.g., continuously look at) the depth control element 160 when changing depth. The user's other hand can be used to hold the drill.

[0043] Footplate 140 and / or depth limiter guide tube 120 may be configured to provide depth indication. For example, depth limiter guide tube 120 may include markings 222, 224. Markings 222, 224 (e.g., specific markings / gradients) may be indicated by footplate 140. For example, bevel 242 of footplate 140 may be configured to contact depth limiter guide tube 120 and / or point to markings. Bevel 242 may be included in recess 244 configured to at least partially surround depth limiter guide tube 120. Markings may include a scale having a plurality of graduations 222. Graduation lines 222 may include, for example, one or more lines. Each of the plurality of graduations may be associated with a depth measurement value. For example, a depth measurement value may be associated with the distance the drill bit extends from casing 126 (e.g., the bottom end).

[0044] One or more scale lines 222 can be marked. For example, scale line 222 can be marked with the number 242. The number 242 can be associated with a depth measurement value. Additionally or alternatively, scale lines 222 can include different lengths. Each length can be associated with an increment. For example, three scale line lengths can exist. A first scale line length can be associated with a ten-millimeter increment, a second scale line length can be associated with a five-millimeter increment, and / or a third scale line length can be associated with a one-millimeter increment. Additionally or alternatively, one or more scale line lengths can be associated with a fraction of a distance unit, such as a fraction of a standard distance unit. Standard distance units can include millimeters, centimeters, inches, or multiple units of measurement. Scale line lengths can be associated with length increments. For example, the longest scale line length can be associated with the largest measurement value (e.g., one centimeter and / or one inch), and the smallest scale line length can be associated with the smallest measurement value (e.g., one millimeter, two millimeters, and / or one-sixteenth of an inch). Intermediate measurement values ​​can be associated with corresponding scale line length increments.

[0045] like Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 4 As shown, the housing 130 may include a tactile feedback element 333. The tactile feedback element 333 may be a leaf spring having a circular element 344 near one end. Alternatively, the tactile feedback element 333 may be a ball bearing, a ball pawl, and / or a spring element (e.g., other types of springs). The tactile feedback element 333 may mate with the depth control element 160. For example, the circular element 344 of the tactile feedback element 333 may be disposed in a groove 364 between two ridges 362 of the depth control element 160. The tactile feedback element 333 may be attached, for example, at the end opposite the circular element 344 to a fastener 335. The attachment at the fastener 335 may be in a fixed position, which may result in tactile feedback as the depth control element 160 moves (e.g., moves a predetermined amount).

[0046] Sensory feedback can be generated by sensory feedback element 333. For example, sensory feedback can be generated when sensory feedback element 333 engages and / or disengages from groove 364 of depth control element 150. Sensory feedback element 333 can engage into groove 364 as depth control element 160 rotates. For example, sensory feedback may include an audible clicking sound when the circular element 344 of sensory element 333 moves out of groove 364, is compressed by ridge 362, and slides into another groove 364 as depth control element 160 rotates. Rotation of depth control element 160 is indicated by arrows. For example, Figure 3B A circular element 344 of the haptic feedback element 333 and a depth control element 160 are shown. The haptic feedback element 333 can compress and expand as the depth control element 160 rotates. The haptic feedback element 333 can compress upon contact with the ridge 362. The haptic feedback element 333 can expand when engaged in the groove 364. An audible clicking sound can be caused by the expansion of the haptic feedback element 333 and / or its engagement in the groove 364. The audible clicking sound can correspond to a predetermined change in the position of the footplate 140, defined by the number of grooves 364, the size of the grooves 364, and the diameter of the depth control element 160. Auditory feedback allows the user of the system to operate without having to consult markings (e.g., to determine the drill depth). For example, an audible clicking sound can correspond to a 2mm change in the position of the footplate 140. Therefore, the user knows that for each audible clicking sound, the drill depth has changed by 2mm. Each audible clicking sound can correspond to a predetermined rotation of the depth control element 160. For example, an audible click may correspond to a 15-degree or 180-degree rotation of the depth control element 160. The surgeon may associate each audible click with a predetermined change in the position of the footplate 140 and / or the depth of the drill bit. The sensory feedback element 333 may additionally or alternatively clip onto the spine 362 (e.g., each spine).

[0047] It should be understood that the predetermined change and audible click can be set based on the geometry and dimensions of the component (e.g., the spring characteristics of a leaf spring). The tactile feedback element 333 can be configured to restrict (e.g., rotational) movement of the depth control element 160. For example, the tactile feedback element 160 may include a slot 366. The slot 366 and the tactile feedback element 333 can provide pressure that restricts movement of the depth control element 160. A predetermined pressure applied to the depth control element 160 can move the depth control element 160. The tactile feedback element 333 can be removably attached to the housing, for example, using a fastener 335. This fastener can be any type of fastener, such as screws, bolts, and / or rivets. Alternatively, the tactile feedback element and / or fastener can be welded to the housing 130.

[0048] A resilient element 331 may be disposed within the housing 130. For example, the resilient element 331 may be a spring. The resilient element 331 may contact a separator 434. The separator 434 may prevent the resilient element 331 from contacting the depth control element 160. A block 432 is disposed near one end of the resilient element 331 and is configured to contact the depth limiter guide tube 120. The resilient element 331 may apply a force (e.g., stored energy) to the block 432, causing the block 432 to be pushed against the depth limiter guide tube 120, which may, for example, facilitate connection with a drill. The depth limiter guide tube 120 may be removed by compressing the spring 331 and moving the block 432 away from the depth limiter guide tube 120, allowing the depth limiter adapter 120 to be cleaned. Alternatively, the depth limiter guide tube 120 may be welded to the housing 130. One or more holes may be included in the housing 130 and / or the depth limiter guide tube 120, for example, to facilitate cleaning. Alternatively or additionally, the depth limiter guide tube 120 may include an opening 421. The block 432 may be configured to enter the opening 421, for example, when the elastic element 331 applies a force (e.g., stored energy) to the block 432. The block 432 may contact the drill and / or facilitate connection with the drill.

[0049] Figure 5A and Figure 6A This is a view of the example depth limiter adapter 110 and footplate 140 in a first position. The first position can be an initial position, which may correspond to a depth of 0 mm. In the first position, the footplate 140 is positioned furthest from the housing 130. In the first position, the proximal end 252 of the rod 150 is closest to the second opening 238 of the housing 130. The proximal end 252 may be configured to prevent the distal end 254 of the rod 150 from moving further away from the housing 130. The depth limiter guide tube 120 may have a fixed position relative to the housing 130.

[0050] The depth control element 160 may be configured to rotate such that the position of the foot plate 140 changes with the rotation of the depth control element 160. For example, a rod 150 may be configured to contact the depth control element 160. As the depth control element 160 rotates, the rod 150 may move away from and / or toward the housing 130, depending on the direction of rotation of the depth control element 160. The foot plate 140 may prevent the rod 150 from rotating. Movement of the rod 150 may move the foot plate 140 toward or away from the housing 130. The rod 150 may contact the depth control element 160 at an internal portion of the depth control element 160. Additionally or alternatively, the rod 150 may contact the depth control element 160 at one or more recesses 364 and / or ridges 362. The rod 150 may be a threaded rod. For example, threads can be helical, straight, tapered, square, V-shaped, trapezoidal, knuckle-shaped, sawtooth-shaped, worm-shaped, single-start, multi-start, metric standard, British standard and / or uniform standard, or one or more of these.

[0051] Figure 5B and Figure 6B This is a view of the example depth limiter adapter 110 in the second position. The second position may correspond to a depth of 28 mm. The foot plate 140 may be in the position closest to (e.g., adjacent to) the housing 130. The rod 150 attached to the foot plate 140 may include a proximal end 252. In the second position, the proximal end may be furthest from the second opening 238 of the housing 130. The depth limiter guide tube 120 may have a fixed position relative to the housing 130. As shown, when the foot plate 140 is... Figure 5A Move the first position in the middle to Figure 5B In the second position, the rod 150 moves laterally to the housing as the depth control adapter rotates, which causes the foot plate 140 to move relative to the depth limiter guide tube 120 to indicate the drill guide position based on the drill guide marking.

[0052] Figure 6A and Figure 6B The depth limiter guide tube 120 is shown to include markings 222, 224. Markings 222, 224 (e.g., specific markings / gradients) can be indicated by a footplate 140. For example, a bevel 242 of the footplate 140 can be configured to contact the depth limiter guide tube 120 and / or point to the markings. The thickness of the bevel 242 can be set to correspond to the markings. The markings may include a scale with multiple graduations 222. The graduations 222 may include, for example, one or more lines. Each of the multiple graduations may be associated with a depth measurement. For example, a depth measurement may be associated with the distance a drill bit 174 extends from the depth limiter guide tube 120 (e.g., the bottom end of the guide tube). The distance the drill bit 174 extends from the depth limiter guide tube 120 may correspond to, for example, the drilling depth into bone.

[0053] One or more of a plurality of scale lines 222 may be marked. For example, scale lines 222 may be marked with the number 242. The number 242 may be associated with a depth measurement value. Additionally or alternatively, scale lines 222 may include different lengths. Each length may be associated with an increment. For example, the longest scale line length may be associated with the largest measurement value (e.g., one centimeter and / or one inch), and the smallest scale line length may be associated with the smallest measurement value (e.g., one millimeter and / or one-sixteenth of an inch). Intermediate measurement values ​​may be associated with corresponding scale line length increments.

[0054] The marking may be on the inner surface of the depth limiter guide tube 120, for example, on the inner surface of the outer sleeve. Additionally or alternatively, the marking may be on the inner and / or outer surfaces of the inner sleeve. For example, the outer sleeve and / or inner sleeve may be transparent, and the marking may be visible when viewed from the surrounding environment.

[0055] The depth control element can be configured to rotate such that the position of the foot plate 140 changes as the depth control element rotates. For example, when the depth control element 160 rotates, the foot plate 140 can move toward or away from the housing 130. The movement of the foot plate 140 toward or away from the housing 130 can depend on the direction of movement of the depth control element. For example, clockwise movement of the depth control element can cause the foot plate 140 to move toward the housing 130 (e.g., increase in depth). Counterclockwise movement of the depth control element 160 can cause the foot plate 140 to move away from the housing 130 (e.g., decrease in depth).

[0056] Figure 6B A drill bit 174 at an example depth (e.g., x) is shown. The example depth (e.g., x) may be equal to the depth indicated by one or more scale lines 222, footplates 140, and / or ramps 242. For example, the depth (e.g., x) extending from the depth limiter guide tube 120 of drill bit 174 may be equal to the distance between a first (e.g., lowest) scale line 221 and a second scale line 223 indicated by the footplates 140 and / or ramps 242. The depth of the drill bit may correspond to a mark 224 that corresponds to a scale line 222 indicated by the footplates 140 and / or ramps 242.

[0057] Figure 7 This is an example view of a system 100 including a depth limiter adapter 110, with the drill bit at an example depth (e.g., x). A housing 130 is attached to a rod 150 and a depth limiter guide tube 120. The rod 150 is attached to a foot plate 140 at its distal end 254. The foot plate may be configured to move a access guide 790. For example, the foot plate 140 may be connected to the access guide 790 such that the access guide 790 moves away from or toward the housing 130 as the foot plate 140 moves. As the access guide 790 moves toward the housing 130, the drill bit 174 extends from or further than an end (e.g., a bottom end) of the access guide 790 and / or the depth limiter guide tube 120.

[0058] Movement of the depth control element 160 correspondingly moves the position of the rod 150, foot plate 140, and / or passage guide 790 relative to the housing 130. For example, clockwise movement of the depth control element 160 causes the rod 150, foot plate 140, and / or passage guide 790 to move toward the housing 130. This can result in an increase in the depth of the drill bit 174. Counterclockwise movement of the depth control element 160 causes the rod 150, foot plate 140, and / or passage guide 790 to move away from the housing 130. This can result in a decrease in the depth of the drill bit 174.

[0059] It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, particularly any detailed discussion of specific examples, are merely possible examples of specific implementations and are set forth for the purpose of clearly understanding the principles of this disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments of this disclosure without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure, and this disclosure is protected by the following claims.

Claims

1. A depth limiter adapter, comprising: A depth limiter guide tube defines a hollow interior, the hollow interior being configured to receive a drill bit, such that the drill bit can extend through the depth limiter guide tube. Housing, the housing comprising: First end and second end; A first opening, located near the first end, is configured to receive the depth limiter guide tube; and A second opening is located between the first opening and the second end; Footplate, the footplate being configured to provide depth indication; A rod, configured to be received by the second aperture, the rod including a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being configured to attach to a foot plate; and A depth control element configured to adjust the position of the footplate relative to the housing.

2. The depth limiter adapter of claim 1, wherein, The depth control element includes a wheel configured to rotate such that the position of the footplate changes as the wheel rotates.

3. The depth stop adapter of claim 2, wherein, The wheel is attached to a sensory feedback element, which is configured to generate sensory feedback.

4. The depth limiter adapter according to claim 3, wherein, The sensory feedback includes an audible clicking sound, and the audible clicking sound corresponds to a predetermined change in the position of the foot.

5. The depth limiter adapter according to claim 4, wherein, The audible clicking sound corresponds to a 180-degree rotation of the wheel.

6. The depth limiter adapter according to claim 4, wherein, The predetermined change in the position of the footplate is 2 millimeters.

7. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The sensory feedback element is configured to limit the rotational movement of the wheel.

8. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The sensory feedback element is a leaf spring.

9. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The wheel includes a slot, and the sensory feedback element is configured to be connected to the slot.

10. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The depth limiter guide tube includes a mark associated with the distance the drill bit extends from the bottom end of the depth limiter guide tube.

11. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The footplate includes a notch configured to at least partially surround the depth limiter guide tube, wherein the notch also includes a ramp configured to contact the depth limiter guide tube and to indicate depth by pointing to a mark on the depth limiter guide tube, the mark being associated with a distance the drill bit extends from the depth limiter guide tube.

12. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The depth limiter guide tube includes an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve includes a bottom end, and the bottom end includes a beveled tip.

13. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The rod is a threaded rod and is configured to contact the inner portion of the wheel.

14. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein, The footplate is configured to move toward or away from the housing as the wheel rotates, and the second end is configured to be attached to the navigation array.

15. The depth limiter adapter according to any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the depth limiter adapter is combined with a drill bit extending through the depth limiter guide tube.

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