Surgical skull clamp

Abstract

The present invention relates to a surgical skull clamp (1). One embodiment of the surgical skull clamp (1) comprises: a first arm portion (10) with a first fixing portion (4a); a second arm portion (20) with a second fixing portion (4b); a first adjustment mechanism (100) for the first fixing portion (4a); and a blocking mechanism (1000).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a surgical skull clamp.

[0002] In (neuro)surgical procedures, skull fixation is usually unavoidable. So-called skull clamps (often referred to as head clamps or head restraints) are used to fixate the skull.

[0003] Such skull clamps are known, for example, from DE 694 11 621 T2 (= EP 0 623 318 B1), EP 1 849 427 A1, DE 10 2019 135 621 A1 and DE 20 2019 102 801 U1.

[0004] (Neuro)surgical procedures require extremely precise and accurate work. Therefore, the most accurate adjustment for skull fixation is desirable.

[0005] Common skull clamps often use a so-called spur-toothed disc for adjustment, with, for example, a 9-degree graduation. Such a graduation is too coarse for the precision required in (neuro)surgical procedures.

[0006] An example of a skull clamp with a toothed mechanism is described in US Pat. No. 8,844,536 B1. While the mechanism described therein allows for adjustment due to its tooth pitch, this tooth pitch does not allow for the most precise adjustment of a skull for (neuro)surgical procedures.

[0007] There is therefore a need for improved, particularly more precise and / or more accurately adjustable, surgical skull clamps.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, a surgical skull clamp is provided. The surgical skull clamp has a first arm portion and a second arm portion. The first arm portion has a first fixing portion. The second arm portion has a second fixing portion. The surgical skull clamp has a first adjustment mechanism for the first fixing portion. The first adjustment mechanism is configured to assume a first state and a second state. The surgical skull clamp has a blocking mechanism. In the first state of the first adjustment mechanism, the blocking mechanism is configured to at least largely block adjustment of the first fixing portion by means of the first adjustment mechanism.The blocking mechanism is designed to at least largely enable or release an adjustment of the first fixing section by means of the first adjustment mechanism in the second state of the first adjustment mechanism.

[0009] In the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section is thus blocked or not possible. In other words, in the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section is prevented. In the second state, adjustment of the first fixing section is enabled or possible. In other words, in the second state, adjustment of the first fixing section is enabled.

[0010] The first adjustment mechanism serves to adjust the first fixing section. In other words, the first adjustment mechanism is configured to enable or provide adjustment of the first fixing section.

[0011] In the first state, a blocking option is provided, which can prevent adjustment of the first fixing section via the first adjustment mechanism. In particular, a blocking option with at least virtually no play can be provided in the first state. Furthermore, in the second state, an at least virtually stepless adjustment of the first fixing section can be enabled. This can provide an option for effecting at least virtually stepless adjustment, in particular at least virtually stepless rotation, of the first fixing section via the first adjustment mechanism - in the second state. In this way, the first fixing section can be adjusted as precisely as possible, in particular at least virtually exactly.

[0012] The first fixing section may comprise a plurality of pins, in particular two pins, for fixing a skull. The second fixing section may, for example, comprise a single pin for fixing a skull.

[0013] The first fixing section can be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the first adjustment mechanism. The first fixing section can be rotatable about a rotation axis of the first adjustment mechanism. The longitudinal axis can correspond to the rotation axis. The rotation axis of the first adjustment mechanism can correspond to an axis about which the first adjustment mechanism, in particular an adjustment handle of the first adjustment mechanism, is / can be rotated.

[0014] The first adjustment mechanism can have an adjustment handle. By moving the adjustment handle along a rotation axis of the first adjustment mechanism, the first adjustment mechanism can be brought from the first state to the second state and vice versa from the second state to the first state. In the second state of the first adjustment mechanism, the adjustment handle can be designed to be rotatable about the rotation axis in order to cause rotation of the first fixing section. Alternatively, by moving, in particular rotating the adjustment handle about a rotation axis, the first adjustment mechanism can be brought from the first state to the second state and vice versa from the second state to the first state.In the second state of the first adjustment mechanism, the adjustment handle may be configured to be rotatable about the rotation axis to cause rotation of the first fixing portion.

[0015] The blocking mechanism can have a plurality of cylindrical rollers and a plurality of clamping surfaces. The first adjustment mechanism can be designed to bring about a frictional connection between the plurality of cylindrical rollers and the plurality of clamping surfaces in the first state such that adjustment of the first fixing section by means of the first adjustment mechanism is at least largely blocked. Furthermore, the first adjustment mechanism can be designed to at least largely release the frictional connection between the plurality of cylindrical rollers and the plurality of clamping surfaces in the second state such that adjustment of the first fixing section by means of the first adjustment mechanism is possible or enabled. The frictional connection can have a frictional connection and / or a clamping or can be formed by a frictional connection or a clamping.

[0016] The plurality of clamping surfaces can have a first clamping surface and a second clamping surface. The first clamping surface can have a first circular cross-section formed around a first center point with a first diameter. The second clamping surface can have a second circular cross-section formed around a second center point with a second diameter. The first center point and the second center point can be different from one another. The first diameter and the second diameter can be different from one another. For example, the second clamping surface can run at least partially within the first surface. A radial distance between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface can be at least partially variable / not constant along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface.

[0017] The cylindrical rollers can be displaceable or movable along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface. With an at least partially changing radial distance between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface, the cylindrical rollers can be clamped between the first surface and the second surface at at least one blocking position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface, thereby preventing rotation of the first adjustment mechanism. Clamping the cylindrical rollers between the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface can result in a particularly play-free blocking.With an at least partially changing radial distance between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface, the cylindrical rollers can be freely rotating at at least one release position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface and thereby enable rotation of the first adjustment mechanism.

[0018] The first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface can be smooth, in particular at least almost completely smooth. In particular, the first clamping surface and / or the second clamping surface can be tooth-free (=have no teeth).

[0019] Thus, the blocking mechanism can be designed to at least largely, in particular completely, block an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism and thus an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first fixing section in the first state of the first adjustment mechanism. The blocking mechanism can further be designed to enable an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism and thus an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first fixing section in the second state of the first adjustment mechanism. With a smooth or flat, in particular tooth-free, first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface, an at least almost stepless adjustment of the first fixing section can be enabled.

[0020] In other words, in the first state, rotation of the first fixing section via the first adjustment mechanism may be at least largely impossible, and a blocking action that is at least virtually free of play may be provided. Thus, in the first state, the first fixing section may be at least largely impossible to rotate. In the second state, rotation, in particular stepless rotation, of the first fixing section via the first adjustment mechanism may be possible.

[0021] The blocking mechanism may comprise a spring mechanism. The spring mechanism may comprise one or more springs, for example, two springs. The spring mechanism may interact with the cylindrical rollers and the plurality of clamping surfaces. For example, the spring mechanism may interact with the cylindrical rollers and the plurality of clamping surfaces to block adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section in the first state of the adjustment mechanism. Furthermore, the spring mechanism may interact with the cylindrical rollers and the plurality of clamping surfaces to enable adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section in the second state of the first adjustment mechanism.

[0022] The blocking mechanism can have a sliding mechanism. The sliding mechanism can be designed to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one blocking position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface or to press them into the at least one blocking position in the first state of the first adjustment mechanism. In this way, the cylindrical rollers can be clamped in the at least one blocking position between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface. The sliding mechanism can press the cylindrical rollers against the spring mechanism / against the force of the spring mechanism. The sliding mechanism can be designed to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one release position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface in the second state of the first adjustment mechanism.For example, the sliding mechanism can enable the spring mechanism to push the cylindrical rollers into the at least one release position or to hold them in the at least one release position. Once the cylindrical rollers are in the at least one release position, the first fixing section can be rotated by rotating the first adjustment mechanism.

[0023] The blocking mechanism may comprise an eccentric mechanism. The eccentric mechanism may be configured to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one blocking position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface in the first state of the first adjustment mechanism. For example, the eccentric mechanism may enable the spring mechanism to press the cylindrical rollers into the at least one blocking position or to hold them in the at least one blocking position. The eccentric mechanism may be configured to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one release position along the circumference of the first and / or second surface or to press them into the at least one release position in the second state of the adjustment mechanism. The eccentric mechanism may press the cylindrical rollers against the spring mechanism / against the force of the spring mechanism.When the cylindrical rollers are in the at least one release position, the first fixing section can be rotated by rotating the first adjustment mechanism.

[0024] The eccentric mechanism can be designed to be rotatable. The eccentric mechanism can, for example, have a single eccentric. For example, by moving the first adjustment mechanism from the first state to the second state, a rotation of the eccentric mechanism, in particular the eccentric, by 90 degrees can be achieved.

[0025] The blocking mechanism can comprise a lever mechanism. The lever mechanism can be configured to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one blocking position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface in the first state of the adjustment mechanism. In this way, the cylindrical rollers can be clamped in the at least one blocking position between the first surface and the second surface. The spring mechanism can press the cylindrical rollers into the at least one blocking position counter to the lever mechanism. The lever mechanism can be configured to hold the cylindrical rollers in the at least one release position along the circumference of the first clamping surface and / or second clamping surface or to press them into the at least one release position in the second state of the adjustment mechanism.The lever mechanism can push the cylindrical rollers against the spring mechanism / against the force of the spring mechanism. If the cylindrical rollers are in at least one release position, the first fixing section can be rotated by rotating the first adjustment section. The lever mechanism can have several, for example, two, levers. The levers of the lever mechanism can each be fixed on one side / end and freely movable on another side / end, for example, rotatable or pivotable about the fixed side / end.

[0026] The present invention will be further explained with reference to the accompanying figures. These figures schematically show: Fig. 1a to 1h various views and details of a surgical skull clamp; Fig. 2 a possible design of part of a surgical skull clamp; Fig. 3a to 3d show a first possible embodiment of an adjustment mechanism of a surgical skull clamp; Fig. 4a to 4d show a second possible embodiment of an adjustment mechanism of a surgical skull clamp; and Fig. 5a to 5d show a third possible embodiment of an adjustment mechanism of a surgical skull clamp.

[0027] Specific details are set forth below, but are not limited thereto, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be utilized in other embodiments that may differ from the details set forth below.

[0028] The Fig. 1a to 1f show different views of a surgical skull clamp. Fig. 1a shows an isometric view of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1b shows a front view of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1c shows a side view of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1d shows a rear view of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1e shows a top view of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1f shows a bottom view of the skull clamp 1. All representations of the skull clamp are only examples, ie all elements of the skull clamp 1, such as handles, joints, etc., may differ from the example shown.

[0029] The skull clamp 1 has various sections, components, and elements, three of which are mentioned here as examples. As described in Fig. As best seen in Figure 1a, the skull clamp 1 has several adjustment mechanisms, two of which are designated below with the reference numerals 2a, 2b. References to the adjustment mechanisms 2a, 2b below can be understood as referring to all adjustment mechanisms of the skull clamp, i.e., including those adjustment mechanisms that are not provided with a reference numeral in the figures.

[0030] The adjustment mechanisms 2a, 2b partially serve to adjust the skull clamp to individual patient and skull sizes and / or shapes. This ensures precise fixation of a skull. Furthermore, the skull clamp 1 has a fixation section 4 for fixation of the skull. Adjustment mechanisms can also be present on the fixation section 4, one of which will be described in more detail later and referred to as the first adjustment mechanism. Furthermore, the skull clamp 1 has a fastening section 6 for attaching the skull clamp 1 to an operating table (not shown).

[0031] In the Fig. 1g to 1h show examples of details and elements of the skull clamp 1. The Fig. 1g shows exemplary details of the fixing section 4. The fixing section 4 has, in the embodiment according to Fig. 1g has a dual fixation 4a and a single fixation 4b for securing a skull / head. Furthermore, the fixation section 4 has an adaptor 4c for accessories. These accessories can include a navigation star, retractor systems, a clamp adapter, stereotaxic systems, and other accessories.

[0032] The Fig. 1h shows an example of a locking system of the adaptation option 4c of the skull clamp 1.

[0033] Fig. 2 shows a part of a surgical skull clamp 1, in particular a fixation section 4 of the surgical skull clamp 1. The surgical skull clamp 1 has a first arm section 10. The first arm section 10 has a first fixation section 4a. The first fixation section 4a is designed, for example, as a double fixation and, as such a double fixation, has, for example, two pins 122. The surgical skull clamp 1 has a second arm section 20. The second arm section 20 has a second fixation section 4b. The second fixation section 4b is designed, for example, as a single fixation and, as such a single fixation, has, for example, a pin 222. In Fig. 2 further shows by way of example how the first fixing section 4a, in particular the pin 122, and the second fixing section 4b, in particular the pin 222, fix a skull as a triple or 3-point fixation.

[0034] The surgical skull clamp 1 has a first adjustment mechanism 100 for the first fixation section 4a. Furthermore, the surgical skull clamp 1 has, for example, a second adjustment mechanism 200 for the second fixation section 4b. The first adjustment mechanism 100 serves to adjust the first fixation section 4a as precisely as possible. The first adjustment mechanism 4a enables rotation of the first fixation section 4a, in particular of the pins 122, about a rotation axis R. The rotation axis R runs axially symmetrically through the first fixation section 4a and the second fixation section 4b, if only the first fixation section 4a and the second fixation section 4b of the skull clamp 1 are considered. The rotation axis R cuts the first fixation section 4a into two corresponding halves and cuts the second fixation section 4b into two corresponding halves.

[0035] Possible embodiments of the first adjustment mechanism 100 for adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section 4a will now be described with reference to the further Fig. 3a to 5d explained.

[0036] A first possible embodiment of the first adjustment mechanism 100 for adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section 4a will now be described with reference to the Fig. 3a to 3d explained.

[0037] As with regard to Fig. 3a to 3d, the first adjustment mechanism 100 (also referred to as adjustment mechanism 100 for short) is designed to assume a first state and a second state. The first state is shown in the Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b is shown as an example. In the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a (also referred to as fixing section 4a for short) is not possible, ie, it is blocked. In other words, in the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is prevented. The second state is in Fig. 3c and Fig. 3d. In the second state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is possible, ie, enabled. In other words, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is enabled in the first state.

[0038] The surgical skull clamp 1 made of Fig. 3a to 3d further comprises a blocking mechanism 1000. In the example from Fig. 3a to 3d, the blocking mechanism 1000 has two cylindrical rollers 1200 to illustrate that a plurality of cylindrical rollers 1200 can be provided in the blocking mechanism 1000. F Furthermore, the blocking mechanism 1000 has, for example, two clamping surfaces 1600, 1800 and a spring mechanism with, for example, two springs 1300. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to at least largely block / lock an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism 100 in the first state of the adjustment mechanism 100. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to enable an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism 100 in the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100. An adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism 100 brings about an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first fixing section 4a.

[0039] The adjustment mechanism 100 has, for example, an adjustment handle 1500. By moving the adjustment handle 1500 along a longitudinal axis of the adjustment mechanism, which corresponds to the rotation axis R, the adjustment mechanism 100 can be brought from the first state to the second state and vice versa. In the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100, the adjustment handle 1500 is designed to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis, which corresponds to the rotation axis R. By rotating the adjustment handle 1500 about the longitudinal axis (= rotation axis R), a rotation of the first fixing section 4a is effected. The rotation can be referred to as an at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a. In this way, the fixing section 4a can be adjusted as precisely as possible, in particular at least almost exactly.

[0040] The blocking mechanism 1000 comprises a spring mechanism. In the example from Fig. 3a to 3d, the spring mechanism has two springs 1300. In the example from Fig. 3a to 3d, the blocking mechanism 1000 further comprises a sliding mechanism 1400. The sliding mechanism 1400 is designed to be displaceable transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the rotational axis R (=longitudinal axis of the adjustment mechanism 100). The sliding mechanism 1400 is movable by adjusting the adjustment mechanism 100. In particular, the sliding mechanism 1400 is movable transversely to the rotational axis R by moving the adjustment handle 1500 along the rotational axis R. In addition, the blocking mechanism 1000 has two clamping surfaces 1600, 1800. The first surface 1600 is circular in cross-section with a first diameter around a first center point. The second clamping surface 1800 is located further inward in the radial direction of the first clamping surface and is also circular in cross-section with a second diameter around a second center point. The second center point can be different from the first center point. In the example from Fig. 3a to 3d, the second center point is offset from the first center point. The second diameter is smaller than the first diameter. Therefore, the distance between the first clamping surface 1600 and the second clamping surface 1800 is not constant. In a central region of the second clamping surface, the distance between the first clamping surface 1600 and the second clamping surface 800 is smaller than in an edge region of the second clamping surface 1800.

[0041] The sliding mechanism 1400 is designed to be displaced upwards (as viewed in the figures) in the first state compared to the second state (towards the rollers). In the first state, the sliding mechanism 1400 therefore presses the two cylindrical rollers 1200 towards each other against the spring force of the respective springs 1300. Therefore, the cylindrical rollers 1200 move, for example, minimally towards each other and thus inwards. Since the distance between the first clamping surface 1600 and the second clamping surface 1800 is reduced in this inner region, a force connection, in particular a frictional connection and / or jamming, occurs between the cylindrical rollers 1200, the first clamping surface 1600, and the second clamping surface 1800. The springs 1300 can further support this force connection. The cylindrical rollers 1200 are, so to speak, clamped between the clamping surfaces 1600, 1800, as shown in Fig. 3b. This force connection, in particular the clamping and / or frictional engagement, blocks / prevents rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. The fixing section 4a therefore cannot be rotated either. In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 1600, 1800 are, for example, at least almost completely smooth. The force connection, in particular the clamping and / or frictional engagement, therefore causes the adjustment mechanism 100 to be blocked with at least almost no play.

[0042] The sliding mechanism 1400 is designed to be displaced downward in the second state compared to the first state (away from the rollers). As a result, the respective spring force of the springs 1300 presses the rollers 1200 away from each other (outwards). In the outer region, the distance between the first clamping surface 1600 and the second clamping surface 1800 is increased and in any case so large that the rollers 1200 no longer form a frictional connection with the clamping surfaces 1600, 1800. The rollers 1200 are thus no longer clamped and no longer block rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. By rotating the adjustment mechanism 100, the fixing section 4a can also be rotated (about the rotation axis R). In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 1600, 1800 are, by way of example, at least almost completely smooth.As a result, an at least almost stepless rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100 and thus an at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a can be achieved.

[0043] A second possible embodiment of the first adjustment mechanism 100 for adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section 4a will now be described with respect to the Fig. 4a to 4d explained.

[0044] As with regard to Fig. 4a to 4d, the first adjustment mechanism 100 is configured to assume a first state and a second state. The first state is shown in the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b is shown as an example. In the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is not possible, ie, it is blocked. In other words, in the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is prevented. The second state is shown in Fig. 4c and Fig. 4d. In the second state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is possible, ie, enabled. In other words, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is enabled in the first state.

[0045] The surgical skull clamp 1 made of Fig. 4a to 4d has a blocking mechanism 1000. In the example from Fig. 4a to 4d, the blocking mechanism 1000 has, by way of example, four cylindrical rollers 2200 to illustrate that a plurality of cylindrical rollers 2200 can be provided in the blocking mechanism 1000. Furthermore, the blocking mechanism 1000 has, by way of example, two clamping surfaces 2600, 2800 and a spring mechanism with two springs 2300. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to at least largely block an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first adjustment mechanism 100 in the first state of the adjustment mechanism 100. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to enable an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the adjustment mechanism 100 in the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100. An adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the adjustment mechanism 100 brings about an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the first fixing section 4a.

[0046] The adjustment mechanism 100 has, for example, an adjustment handle 2500. By moving the adjustment handle 2500 along or through a specific angle (e.g., 90 degrees) about a longitudinal axis of the adjustment mechanism 100, which corresponds to the rotation axis R, the adjustment mechanism 100 can be brought from the first state to the second state and vice versa. In the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100, the adjustment handle 2500 is designed to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis, which corresponds to the rotation axis R. By rotating the adjustment handle 2500 about the longitudinal axis (= rotation axis R), a rotation of the first fixing section 4a is effected. The rotation can be referred to as an at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a. In this way, the fixing section 4a can be adjusted as precisely as possible, in particular at least almost exactly.

[0047] The blocking mechanism 1000 comprises a spring mechanism. In the example from Fig. 4a to 4d, the spring mechanism has two springs 2300. In the example from Fig. 4a to 4d, the blocking mechanism 1000 further comprises an eccentric mechanism 2400. The eccentric mechanism 2400 is rotatable about the rotation axis R (=longitudinal axis of the adjustment mechanism). The eccentric mechanism 2400 is rotatable by adjusting the adjustment mechanism 100. In particular, the eccentric mechanism 2400 is rotatable about the rotation axis R by moving the adjustment handle 1500 around or along the rotation axis R. For example, the eccentric mechanism 2400 can be rotated back and forth by 90 degrees by rotating the adjustment handle 1500 by 90 degrees. In addition, the blocking mechanism 1000 has two clamping surfaces 2600, 2800. The first clamping surface 2600 is circular in cross-section with a first diameter around a first center point.The second clamping surface 2800 is located further inward in the radial direction of the first clamping surface and is also circular in cross-section with a second diameter around a second center point. The second center point may differ from the first center point. In the example from . Fig. 4a to 4d, the second center point is offset downward relative to the first center point. Furthermore, in the example shown, the second diameter is larger, for example, several times larger, than the first diameter. Therefore, the distance between the first clamping surface 2600 and the second clamping surface 2800 is not constant. In a central region of the second clamping surface 2800, the distance between the first clamping surface 2600 and the second clamping surface 2800 is greater than in an edge region of the second clamping surface 2800.

[0048] The eccentric mechanism 2400 is configured to be rotated in the first state of the adjustment mechanism 100 relative to the second state. In the example shown, the rotation between the first and second states is 90 degrees. In the first state, the spring force of the respective springs 2300 pushes the rollers 2200 away from each other (outwards). Therefore, the cylindrical rollers 2200 move, for example, minimally away from each other and thus outwards. Since the distance between the first clamping surface 2600 and the second clamping surface 2800 is reduced in this outer region, a force connection, in particular a frictional connection and / or jamming, occurs between the cylindrical rollers 2200, the first clamping surface 2600, and the second clamping surface 2800. The springs 2300 can further support this force connection. The cylindrical rollers 2200 are, so to speak, clamped between the clamping surfaces 2600, 2800, as shown in Fig. 4b. This frictional connection, in particular this clamping, blocks / prevents rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. Therefore, the fixing section 4a cannot be rotated either. In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 2600, 2800 are, for example, at least almost completely smooth. The frictional connection, in particular the clamping and / or frictional connection, therefore causes the adjustment mechanism 100 to be blocked with at least almost no play.

[0049] The eccentric mechanism 2400 is designed to be rotated in the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100 relative to the first state, for example, by an angle of 90 degrees. As a result, the wide side of the eccentric mechanism 2400 presses against a pivotable lever on each side and pivots the respective lever. The two pivoted levers press the upper rollers 2200 toward each other (inward) against the spring force of the springs 220. In addition, another side of the respective lever pivoted by the eccentric mechanism 2400 presses against a lower pivotable lever and pivots the two lower levers. The pivoted lower levers press the lower rollers 2200 toward each other (inward) against the spring force of the springs 2300.In the inner region, the distance between the first clamping surface 2600 and the second clamping surface 2800 is increased and in any case so large that the rollers 2200 no longer form a frictional connection with the clamping surfaces 2600, 2800. The rollers 2200 are thus no longer clamped and no longer block rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. By rotating the adjustment mechanism 100, the fixing section 4a can also be rotated (about the rotation axis R). In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 2600, 2800 are, for example, at least almost completely smooth. This allows at least almost stepless rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100 and thus at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a to be achieved.

[0050] A third possible embodiment of the first adjustment mechanism 100 for adjustment, in particular rotation, of the first fixing section 4a will now be described with respect to the Fig. 5a to 5d explained.

[0051] As with regard to Fig. 5a to 5d, the first adjustment mechanism 100 is configured to assume a first state and a second state. The first state is shown in the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b is shown as an example. In the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is not possible, ie, it is blocked. In other words, in the first state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is prevented. The second state is shown in Fig. 5c and Fig. 5d. In the second state, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is possible, ie, enabled. In other words, adjustment of the first fixing section 4a is enabled in the first state.

[0052] The surgical skull clamp 1 made of Fig. 5a to 5d further comprises a blocking mechanism 1000. In the example from Fig. 5a to 5d, the blocking mechanism 1000 has two cylindrical rollers 3200 to illustrate that a plurality of cylindrical rollers 3200 can be provided in the blocking mechanism 1000. Furthermore, the blocking mechanism 1000 has, for example, two clamping surfaces 3600, 3800 and a spring mechanism with, for example, two springs 3200. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to at least largely block an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the adjustment mechanism 100 in the first state of the adjustment mechanism 100. The blocking mechanism 1000 is designed to enable an adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the adjustment mechanism 100 in the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100. An adjustment, in particular a rotation, of the adjustment mechanism 100 causes a rotation of the first fixing section 4a.

[0053] The adjustment mechanism 100 has, for example, an adjustment handle 3500. By moving the adjustment handle 3500 along a longitudinal axis of the adjustment mechanism 100, which corresponds to the rotation axis R, the adjustment mechanism 100 can be brought from the first state to the second state and vice versa. In the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100, the adjustment handle 3500 is designed to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis, which corresponds to the rotation axis R. By rotating the adjustment handle 3500 about the longitudinal axis (= rotation axis R), a rotation of the first fixing section 4a is effected. The rotation can be referred to as an at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a. In this way, the fixing section 4a can be adjusted as precisely as possible, in particular at least almost exactly.

[0054] The blocking mechanism 1000 comprises a spring mechanism. In the example from Fig. 5a to 5d, the spring mechanism has two springs 3300. In the example from Fig. 3a to 3d, the blocking mechanism 1000 further comprises a lever mechanism, more precisely, two levers 3400, for example. The levers 3400 are each fixed at one end and pivotable at another end (around the fixed ends of the levers 3400). In the example shown, the levers 3400 are pivoted by the element 3100. In addition, the blocking mechanism 1000 comprises two clamping surfaces 3600, 3800. The first clamping surface 3600 is circular in cross-section with a first diameter around a first center point. The second clamping surface 3800 is located further inward in the radial direction of the first clamping surface and is also circular in cross-section with a second diameter around a second center point. The second center point can be different from the first center point. In the example from Fig. In 5a to 5d, the second center point is offset from the first center point. In the example, the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter. Therefore, the distance between the first clamping surface 3600 and the second clamping surface 3800 is not constant. In a central region of the second clamping surface 3800, the distance between the first clamping surface 3600 and the second clamping surface 3800 is smaller than in an edge region of the second clamping surface 3800.

[0055] The lever mechanism is designed not to be pivoted / in a basic state in the first state of the adjustment mechanism 100. In particular, the two levers 3400 of the lever mechanism are not pivoted / not deflected. The spring force of the springs 3300 presses the cylindrical rollers 3200 toward each other (inward). Therefore, (compared to a second state of the adjustment mechanism 100), the cylindrical rollers 3200 move, for example, minimally toward each other and thus inward. Since the distance between the first clamping surface 3600 and the second clamping surface 3800 is reduced in this inner region, a force connection, in particular a frictional connection and / or jamming, occurs between the cylindrical rollers 3200, the first clamping surface 3600, and the second clamping surface 3800. The springs 3300 can further support this force connection. The cylindrical rollers 3200 are clamped between the clamping surfaces 3600, 3800, as shown in Fig. 5b. This frictional connection, in particular this clamping, blocks / prevents rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. The fixing section 4a therefore cannot be rotated either. In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 3600, 3800 are, for example, at least almost completely smooth. The frictional connection, in particular the clamping and / or frictional connection, therefore causes the adjustment mechanism 100 to be blocked with at least almost no play.

[0056] In the second state of the adjustment mechanism 100, the lever mechanism is configured to be pivoted at its unsupported (unfixed) ends relative to the first state. More precisely, the free (unsupported) ends of the levers 3400 are pivoted outward. As a result, the levers 3400 press the cylindrical rollers 3200 against the springs 3300. Thus, the rollers 3200 are pressed away from each other (outward) against the spring force of the springs 3300. In the outer region, the distance between the first clamping surface 3600 and the second clamping surface 3800 is increased and in any case so large that the rollers 3200 no longer form a frictional connection with the clamping surfaces 3600, 3800. The rollers 3200 are thus no longer jammed and no longer block rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100. By rotating the adjustment mechanism 100, the fixing section 4a can also be rotated (around the rotation axis R).In the example shown, the clamping surfaces 3600, 3800 are designed to be at least almost completely smooth. This allows for at least almost stepless rotation of the adjustment mechanism 100 and thus at least almost stepless rotation of the fixing section 4a.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiments, the clamping surfaces are smooth or flat, in particular tooth-free. In conjunction with the rollers, this enables continuous adjustment of the first fixing section and play-free locking of the first fixing section, thus enabling more precise adjustment and better locking capability than in the prior art. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 694 11 621 T2

[0003] EP 0 623 318 B1

[0003] EP 1 849 427 A1

[0003] DE 10 2019 135 621 A1

[0003] DE 20 2019 102 801 U1

[0003] US 8,844,536 B1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Surgical skull clamp (1), wherein the surgical skull clamp (1) comprises: - a first arm section (10) with a first fixation section (4a); - a second arm section (20) with a second fixation section (4b); - a first adjustment mechanism (100) for the first fixing section (4a), wherein the first adjustment mechanism (100) is configured to assume a first state and a second state; and - a blocking mechanism (1000), wherein the blocking mechanism (1000) is configured to at least largely block the adjustment of the first fixing section (4a) by means of the first fixing mechanism (100) in the first state of the first adjusting mechanism (100) and to at least largely release the adjustment of the first fixing section (4a) by means of the first adjusting mechanism (100) in the second state of the first adjusting mechanism (100). [2] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first fixing section (4a) has several pins (122), in particular two pins (122), for fixing a skull. [3] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first fixing section (4a) is rotatable about an axis of rotation which is coaxial or parallel to an axis of rotation (R) of the first adjusting mechanism (100). [4] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first adjustment mechanism (100) has an adjustment handle (1500; 2500; 3500), wherein by moving the adjustment handle (1500; 2500; 3500) along or about the axis of rotation (R) of the first adjustment mechanism (100) the first adjustment mechanism (100) can be moved from the first state to the second state and vice versa, and wherein the adjustment handle (1500; 2500; 3500) in the second state of the first adjustment mechanism (100) is rotatable about the axis of rotation (R) in order to effect a rotation of the first adjustment mechanism (100). [5] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking mechanism (1000) has several cylindrical rollers (1200; 2200; 3200) and several clamping surfaces (1600, 1800; 2600, 2800; 3600, 3800), wherein the first adjustment mechanism (100) is configured to effect, in the first state, such a force-fit between the several cylindrical rollers (1200; 2200; 3200) and the several clamping surfaces (1600, 1800; 2600; 2800, 3600, 3800) that an adjustment of the first fixing section (4a) by means of the first adjustment mechanism (100) is at least largely blocked. [6] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to claim 5, wherein the multiple clamping surfaces (1600, 1800; 2600, 2800; 3600, 3800) have a first clamping surface (1600; 2600; 3600) and a second clamping surface (1800; 2800; 3800), wherein the first clamping surface (1600; 2600; 3600) has a first circular cross-section formed around a first center point with a first diameter and the second surface (1800; 2800; 3800) has a second circular cross-section formed around a second center point with a second diameter, wherein the first center point and the second center point are different from each other and / or the first diameter and the second diameter are different from each other. [7] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the locking mechanism (1000) comprises a spring mechanism (1300; 2300; 3300). [8] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the locking mechanism (1000) has a sliding mechanism (1400). [9] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the locking mechanism (1000) has an eccentric mechanism (2400). [10] Surgical skull clamp (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the locking mechanism (1000) has a lever mechanism (3400).

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