Retractable blade device and related method

Abstract

Disclosed herein are retractor blade devices, such as blade extenders and tissue shims, as well as drivers and kits for utilizing such retractor blade devices. An exemplary retractor blade device includes a retractor blade engagement portion having a body portion configured to be positioned at least partially within a channel of a retractor blade. The body portion has a first retention element extending therefrom. An exemplary retractor blade device further includes an extension portion extending from the body portion of the retractor blade engagement portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to medical devices for retracting tissue to create and maintain a surgical corridor. In particular, embodiments of devices that may be used to assist in creating and maintaining a surgical corridor and that may also be secured to the blades of a surgical retractor disposed within the surgical corridor are disclosed herein.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0002] Retractor systems may be used in a variety of different surgical procedures to provide an opening through which a surgeon can access the surgical site. For example, in spinal surgery, a retractor system may be used to provide access for a surgeon to a patient's spine. The opening created by the retractor system may allow, for example, a surgeon to access the patient's spine and secure a spinal implant within or onto the spine. A typical retractor system may include a plurality of blades coupled to a retractor frame. In use, the blades may be inserted into an incision and then retracted to create a surgical corridor by moving the tissue surrounding the incision to the surgical site. However, even though the blades of some retractor systems can be manipulated, there is still a need to further handle the tissue, particularly after the blades have created an initial surgical corridor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] This specification discloses various devices primarily for use with surgical retractor blades. Such devices comprise a retractor blade engaging portion and an extension or moving portion. The retractor blade engaging portion is configured to releasably engage with a channel or track of the retractor blade. The extension or moving portion may have a shape or configuration to perform various functions, such as a tissue shim, intradiscal shim, or blade extender, but is not limited to these.

[0004] According to one embodiment, the retractor blade engaging portion has a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, and is configured to be at least partially positioned in the channel of the retractor blade. The body portion has at least one retaining element extending from the body portion and configured to engage with the channel or track of the retractor blade. In one embodiment, two retaining elements are provided.

[0005] The extension may be substantially flat or curved. The extension may have hook features. The extension may be wider than the retractor blade engagement portion. At least a portion of the extension may extend laterally over the retractor blade engagement portion. The distal end of the extension may extend at least about 0.1 cm, at least about 1 cm, at least about 2 cm, at least about 3 cm, or at least about 4 cm beyond the distal end of the retractor blade engagement portion. The proximal end of the extension may be positioned relative to the proximal and distal ends of the retractor blade engagement portion (a) on the proximal side of the proximal end, (b) substantially parallel to the proximal end, or (c) between the proximal and distal ends.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the main body portion defines a first surface, and the extension portion defines a second surface. The first and second surfaces may be parallel to each other. The first and second surfaces may not be coplanar.

[0007] According to one embodiment, one or more retaining elements have elastic protrusions. One or more retaining elements may extend coplanar with the main body portion. One or more retaining elements are configured to move the retractor blade device from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel into the channel of the retractor blade.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the distal end of the extension portion has a rounded shape. The extension portion may have at least one waveform edge.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the main body portion has a driver fixing mechanism. The driver fixing mechanism may have an elastic portion and a projection. The projection may be configured to engage with a recess in the retractor blade. The elastic portion may be in substantially the same plane as the main body portion, or it may extend from a plane defined by the main body portion.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the extension portion has a channel or track extending from a location near the proximal end of the extension portion toward the distal end of the extension portion. The channel or track may open at the proximal end and / or at the distal end.

[0011] This specification further discloses a device driver configured to engage with a retractor blade device such as those disclosed herein. Such a device driver comprises a handle, an elongated housing, a shaft contained within the housing, and a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the retractor blade device. The handle is configured to communicate with the shaft to releasably engage the retractor blade device. The receiving portion may be a distal opening of the housing configured to receive at least a portion of the body portion of the retractor blade device.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the blade device driver is configured to releasably engage with the driver locking mechanism of the retractor blade device. The housing has at least one retaining element configured to hold the blade device driver in the channel of the retractor blade. In one embodiment, two retaining elements are provided. One or more retaining elements may be configured to move the blade device driver from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel into the channel. The handle may be configured to occupy a fixed position from which compressive force can be directly transmitted from the handle through the housing to the retractor blade device.

[0013] This specification further discloses a retractor blade kit comprising a retractor blade and a retractor blade device as disclosed herein. The retractor blade may be planar, has a proximal end and a distal end, and has a channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The retractor blade device is configured to engage with the channel by inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel at a location away from the proximal end of the retractor blade.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the retractor blade kit, the channel is closed at the distal end of the retractor blade. The channel may be open at the proximal end of the retractor blade. The retractor blade device may be further configured to engage with the channel by accessing the opening of the channel at the proximal end of the retractor blade and inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel. In one embodiment, a blade device driver is further provided, configured to engage with at least a portion of the retractor blade device. The blade device driver may be further configured to manipulate the movement of the retractor blade device to engage the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0015] Methods of using a retractor blade device with a surgical retractor having at least one or more retractor blades are further disclosed herein. In such a method, the retractor blade device is engaged with the channel of the retractor blade by inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel distal to the proximal end of the channel. When engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade, at least a portion of the retractor blade device may be moved in a direction perpendicular to the plane defining the channel. When engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade, at least a portion of the retractor blade device may be engaged with one or more recesses in the channel of the retractor blade. The retractor blade may be positioned within the surgical opening of the patient to create a surgical passage before engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade. In some methods, the retractor blade device is further used to sweep the surgical site of the surgical passage and / or interfering tissue before engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade. In some methods, a blade device driver is used to insert the retractor blade device into the surgical passage, manipulate the movement of the retractor blade device within the surgical passage, and / or engage the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade. In some methods, the retractor blade device is further advanced distally along the channel of the retractor blade while towing out the retractor blade. In some methods, the blade device driver is further detached from the retractor blade device so that the retractor blade device remains in the channel of the retractor blade while the blade device driver is removed from the surgical passage. When removing the blade device driver from the surgical passage, the blade device driver may be slid proximal along the channel of the retractor blade to exit through the proximal opening of the channel.

[0016] These and other features are disclosed in more detail in the attached drawings and the following detailed description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] The embodiments shown in the drawings are illustrative and typical in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments can be better understood when read together with the following drawings, in which similar structures are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0018] [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the retractable blade device according to this disclosure. [Figure 1B] This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the retractable blade device according to this disclosure. [Figure 2A] This is a rear view showing another embodiment of the retractable blade device relating to this disclosure. [Figure 2B] This is a front view showing another embodiment of the retractable blade device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] Figure 1A is a front view of the retractable blade device. [Figure 3B] Figure 1A is a rear view of the retractable blade device. [Figure 4A] This is a perspective view showing the retractor blade device shown in Figure 1A connected to the driver. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A is a perspective view showing a portion of the driver. [Figure 5A] Figure 1A is a perspective view showing the distal end of the retractor blade to which the retractor blade device is fixed. [Figure 5B] This is a perspective view showing the retractor blade in Figure 5A to which the retractor blade device in Figure 1A is fixed. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the retractable blade device relating to this disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing the distal end of another embodiment of the deployment device relating to this disclosure. [Figure 8]It is an enlarged view showing a part of the deployment instrument of FIG. 7 engaged with the retractable blade device of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing the proximal end of the deployment instrument of FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] This specification discloses devices that enhance or improve the functionality of some retractable blades. Such devices may be referred to as retractable blade extenders and may be used with a driver to assist in the control or operation of the extender or other enhancement devices. Further disclosed are methods of expanding, retracting, and / or maintaining a surgical access using such enhancement devices. These enhancement devices are removably attached to the retractable blade. Such devices may be used to retract and maintain tissue that has entered the surgical access. Such devices may be used to increase the amount of tissue that can be held in place by functionally enlarging the retractable blade. Such devices may be used to temporarily fix the retractable blade relative to the intervertebral disc space.

[0020] Figures 1A and 1B are perspective views showing one such enhancement device, retractable blade extender 100, according to the present disclosure. Retractable blade extender 100 may be referred to herein as a blade extender or simply an extender. Those skilled in the art will understand that the features of blade extender 100 described herein may be applied to various suitable enhancement devices such as tissue shims or tissue hooks as described below.

[0021] The blade extender 100 comprises both an elongated portion 105 and a blade engaging portion 110, which may be referred to as a driver engaging portion, as shown in the figures. The blade engaging portion 110 is configured to move parallel to the channel of the retractor blade, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, and in one embodiment is configured to be fixed to the channel of the retractor blade. In one embodiment, the blade engaging portion 110 is further configured to be fixed in a predetermined position in the channel of the retractor blade.

[0022] The elongated portion 105 has a relatively flat, elongated body resembling a blade with a rounded distal end, and can therefore be useful when inserting the blade extender 100 into a surgical passage and / or when the blade extender 100 is used to push or pull tissue out of the surgical site and to hold it in place, as will be described in more detail below. The elongated portion 105 may have a blade-like edge as shown, with portions on both sides of the edge formed in a wavy and / or serrated manner. In some embodiments, the edge of the elongated portion 105 is sharp enough to allow the elongated portion to be inserted at least partially into the intervertebral disc cavity, for example, to function as a temporary fixation device for a retractor blade. In some embodiments, the edge of the elongated portion 105 is not so sharp so as not to unnecessarily cut tissue in the surgical passage.

[0023] Figure 1A shows that the elongated portion 105 and the blade engagement portion 110 each define a plane. In this illustrated embodiment and other embodiments, the respective planes are parallel to each other but not coplanar. This misalignment of the elongated portion 105 and the blade engagement portion 110 may provide a bottom-out function when paired with a retractor blade. In other words, when the blade engagement portion 110 is fixed to a channel of the retractor blade, if the channel has a closed distal end, the blade engagement portion 110 does not extend beyond that closed distal end. However, the elongated portion 105 extends beyond the distal end of the channel and, in some embodiments (as shown in Figure 5A), beyond the distal end of the retractor blade. However, in some embodiments, the blade engagement portion 110 and the elongated portion 105 are on the same plane, and in some embodiments, whether or not they are on the same plane, the planes defined by the blade engagement portion 110 and the elongated portion 105 are not parallel, but show a slight angle between them, or in some embodiments, a considerable angle.

[0024] Although the elongated portion 105 is shown as relatively flat, in one embodiment the elongated portion 105 exhibits curvature, such as a curvature corresponding to the shape of the surgical passage.

[0025] Figures 2A and 2B show one modification of the blade extender 100, which may be referred to as the tissue shim 100A. Like the blade extender 100, the tissue shim 100A includes a blade engagement portion 110A, which has two engagement tabs 115A and a fixed tab 120A including a projection 125A. The function of these features is largely the same as that of the corresponding features of the blade extender 100 as described herein, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. However, the tissue shim 100A includes a shim portion 105A that differs from the elongated portion 105 not only in that it does not extend beyond the blade engagement portion 110A, but also in that its outer surface extends well beyond the side edge of the blade engagement portion 110A and has substantial curvature. The shim portion 105A is positioned on one or both sides of the blade engagement portion 110A and can exhibit a variety of different shapes and curvatures as desired for specific needs and surgical procedures.

[0026] Figure 2B shows that the tissue shim 100A further comprises an auxiliary channel 130A which may be used in place of the channel of the retractor blade occupied by the tissue shim 100A. Furthermore, the auxiliary channel 130A is shown to extend beyond the distal end of the blade engagement portion 110A. Thus, the auxiliary channel 130A may help to create a functional channel further into the surgical passage and, consequently, closer to the surgical site. In one embodiment, the auxiliary channel 130A may be used in the blade extender 100, thereby functionally combining both the tissue shim 100A and the blade extender 100.

[0027] Returning to the blade extender 100, Figures 3A and 3B show the elongated portion 105 having substantially the same width as the blade engagement portion 110, however, in one embodiment, the elongated portion 105 is substantially wider than the blade engagement portion 110 to have a larger surface area for tissue intrusion into the surgical passage. In such an embodiment, the elongated portion 105 does not extend significantly beyond the distal end of the retractor blade, and the wider width does not necessarily have to be centered relative to the retractor blade. For example, one side of the elongated portion 105 may extend significantly outward than the opposite side of the elongated portion 105 so that the width of the elongated portion 105 is not centered relative to the retractor blade.

[0028] The elongated portion 105 and the blade engagement portion 110 may be made of the same material or different materials. For example, in one embodiment, it is desirable for the elongated portion 105 to exhibit a certain degree of flexibility, while the blade engagement portion 110 may require less flexibility to firmly engage with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0029] The blade engagement portion 110 has two complementary extensions or blade engagement tabs 115 that extend laterally from both sides of the blade engagement portion 110. In some embodiments, the engagement tabs 115 are in the same plane as the blade engagement portion 110, but in other embodiments, one or both of the engagement tabs 115 extend at an angle to the plane of the blade engagement portion 110.

[0030] The engaging tab 115 is flexible so that its distal end may occupy a natural, unbent, or unbiased configuration that extends beyond the side surface of the blade engaging portion 110. The engaging tab 115 is further configured to bend or bias toward the blade engaging portion 110 so that each distal end is brought toward the side surface of the blade engaging portion 110, or in other words, brought toward along the side surface of the blade engaging portion 110, thus occupying a second configuration.

[0031] The engaging tab 115 may contain the same material as the rest of the blade engaging portion 110, or it may contain a different material. The material of the engaging tab 115 is preferably flexible or elastically deformable. Suitable materials include titanium, steel or alloys thereof, and one or more plastics or polymers.

[0032] Figure 1A shows a blade extender 100 with two engaging tabs 115, but those skilled in the art will understand that only one fixed tab is needed to achieve many of the functional advantages of the blade extender 100. Similarly, although the engaging tabs 115 are shown as being symmetrically arranged on both sides of the blade engaging portion 110, the engaging tabs do not have to be symmetrically arranged. Furthermore, in this illustrated embodiment, the engaging tabs 115 are in the same plane as the blade engaging portion 110 and are further curved or biased in that same plane. However, in some embodiments, the engaging tabs 115 are in a different plane from the blade engaging portion 110 and / or are curved or biased in a different plane.

[0033] As illustrated in the embodiment shown in Figure 1B, the blade engagement portion 110 further includes a driver fixing tab 120 configured to releasably engage a driver, as will be described in more detail below. Similar to the engagement tab 115, the driver fixing tab 120 is flexible or biasable. In the loosened or non-biased state, the fixing tab 120 is substantially in the same plane as the blade engagement portion 110, but the fixing tab 120 has a projection 125 extending outward from that plane (as further shown in Figure 3B). As will be described in more detail below, the projection 125 is configured to engage with a driver, which may be used to insert the blade extender 100 into the surgical passage and manipulate the blade extender 100 within the surgical passage to move tissue toward the surgical passage and fix the blade extender 100 to the retractor blade. Furthermore, in some cases, it is desirable to move the blade extender 100 into the interdiscal space to help fix the retractor blade in place relative to the interdiscal cavity. In one embodiment, the projection 125 is configured to fix the blade extender 100 to the retractor blade by engaging with a recess in the channel of the retractor blade. Such a configuration may be particularly useful when the blade extender 100 is used as a temporary fixation device for the retractor blade. Such a recess may be located along the midline of the channel of the retractor blade, or in other locations such as one side or both sides of the channel, or along one or both edges of the channel. In such alternative locations, a complementary configuration of the fixing tab 120 and / or projection 125 may be required.

[0034] In some embodiments, the engaging tab 115 may function as a fixing tab 120 / projection 125. For example, if the recess described above is located along one or both edges of the channel of the retractor blade, the respective tip of the engaging tab 115 may be configured to engage with the recess to not only maintain the blade device 100 within the channel, but also to fix, or at least partially fix, its longitudinal position within the channel. In some embodiments, such an arrangement may allow the blade device 100 to passively move distally while preventing proximal translation.

[0035] Similar to the engaging tab 115, the fixing tab 120 may be made of the same material as the rest of the blade engaging portion 110, or a different material from the rest of the blade engaging portion 110. The material of the fixing tab 120 is preferably flexible or elastically deformable. Suitable materials include titanium, steel or alloys thereof, and one or more plastics or polymers.

[0036] The blade extender 100 may be provided in many suitable lengths and sizes. The minimum length may be less than or equal to the length required for the blade engagement portion 110 to function properly, and in some embodiments, it is in the range of about 2 cm to about 5 cm. In some embodiments, the total length of the blade extender 100 (or tissue shim 100A) is in the range of about 2 cm to about 10 cm. In some embodiments, the total length of the blade extender 100 is about 5 cm, about 6 cm, about 7 cm, or about 8 cm. The relative lengths of the blade engagement portion 110 and the elongated portion 105 may be approximately the same, but in some embodiments, their respective lengths are not identical. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the elongated portion 105 to the length of the blade engagement portion 110 is greater than 1:2, for example, about 1:1, about 1.5:1, about 2:1, or any suitable ratio between these values.

[0037] The width of the blade extender 100 may be substantially constant along the length from the proximal end of the blade engagement portion 110 to the distal end of the elongated portion 105, but the width does not need to be constant. The width of the blade engagement portion 110 is generally selected based on the width of the channel of the retractor blade or the limiting shape of the retractor blade. For example, the width of the blade engagement portion 110 may be substantially smaller or substantially larger than the width of the elongated portion 105. However, whatever the relative width, the width of the blade engagement portion 110 is generally smaller than the width of the channel of the retractor blade, but when the engagement tab 115 is loose or not biased, the width of the engagement tab 115 is generally larger than the width of the channel of the retractor blade.

[0038] As already described to some extent, the blade extender 100 may be used to achieve a variety of purposes and may be modified to achieve these purposes. The tissue shim 100A may engage with the retractor blade in the same manner as the blade extender 100, but is merely one example of an improved version specifically shaped to intercept tissue with a larger surface area. Within the scope of these two disclosed configurations, the shape and size can be modified in any way. One such modification may include a hook-shaped feature at the distal end of the device. Such a hook-shaped feature may be useful for retracting tissue within a surgical passage for establishing or re-establishing a surgical passage.

[0039] Whether the device is an extender, shim, or other modification, the ability to remove the device during procedure without having to move it out of the surgical passage is considered one of the greatest advantages of these devices. Furthermore, the ability to adjust the depth of the device when opening or otherwise adjusting the retractor blade is also considered a favorable feature not necessarily known in the art. Such functionality can be enhanced using a driver as described below.

[0040] Figures 4A and 4B show a driver 200 connected to a blade extender 100. The driver 200 has a distal end 205 configured to receive at least a portion of the blade extender 100. In this illustrated configuration, the blade engagement portion 110 slides into an opening in the distal end 205. At the distal opening, a projection 125 of the fixing tab 120 engages with the driver 200 to maintain the blade extender 100 in a fixed position on the driver 200, but leaving the engagement tab 115 exposed to engage with a channel of the retractor blade, as will be described in more detail below.

[0041] Similar to the blade extender 100, the driver 200 has a laterally projecting engaging tab 215 configured to engage with the channel of the retractor blade, similar to the engaging tab 115. In this illustrated embodiment, the engaging tab 215 is substantially in the same plane as the driver 200, however, in some embodiments, one or both of the engaging tabs 215 are angled with respect to the plane of the driver 200. The engaging tab 215 is useful for properly positioning the blade extender 100 within the channel of the retractor blade. Once positioned, the driver 200 is disengaged from the blade extender 100, leaving the blade extender 100 on the retractor blade (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B). However, in some embodiments, the driver 200 does not include any retaining tabs.

[0042] The driver 200 has a handle 210 at its proximal end and a shaft 220 extending from the handle 210 toward the distal end of the driver 200. In this illustrated embodiment, the handle 210 has a lumen through which the shaft 220 extends. A spring 230 is configured to maintain tension on the shaft 220 and keep the handle 210 pressed in. The handle 210 is configured to switch between a fixed position and a released position. In the fixed position, the driver 200 may receive an impact at its proximal end and transmit the energy from that impact directly to the blade extender 100 at its distal end. For example, when a surgeon is attempting to advance the blade extender 100 into the intervertebral disc cavity, a hammer or slap hammer may be used to gently strike the handle 210. Also, when removing the blade extender 100 from the intervertebral disc cavity, the handle 210 is configured to receive a slap hammer to facilitate tensile force.

[0043] In the release position, the handle 210 can be moved distally, and then the shaft 220 can be moved distally. The distal end of the shaft 220 is configured to engage with the projection 125 of the fixing tab 120. When the shaft 220 is moved distally, its distal end deviates from the fixing tab 120, disengaging the projection 125 from the distal end of the driver 200 housing, thereby allowing the blade extender 100 (or tissue shim 100A or other suitable device) to be removed from the driver 200.

[0044] Figures 5A and 5B show a blade extender 100 connected to or engaged with a retractor blade 300, the retractor blade 300 having a channel 305 that extends from the proximal end to the distal end (but not all the way to the distal end). In other words, the channel 305 is closed at the distal end so that a device such as the blade extender 100 that moves parallel along the channel 305 cannot exit the channel 305 at the distal end but can be pulled out at the proximal end. However, in some embodiments, the channel 305 is open at the distal end.

[0045] Figure 5A shows the engagement tab 115 extending to the side of the channel 305. In this configuration, the engagement tab 115 may have a size and configuration such that it is stationary or not biased when it is inside the channel 305. However, in some embodiments, even when the engagement tab 115 extends to the side of the channel 305, it is still at least partially biased, which may be useful for fixing the blade extender 100 in place relative to the retractor blade 300.

[0046] Figure 5A further illustrates the state in this illustrated embodiment where the elongated portion 105 extends beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 300 when the blade engagement portion 110 is at its most distal position in the channel 305. The amount by which the elongated portion 105 extends beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 300 is a function of the length of the elongated portion 105 and the distance between the distal end of the retractor blade 300 and the distal end of the channel 305. The elongated portion 105 does not need to extend beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 300, but in some embodiments, the distance beyond the distal end of the retractor blade 300 is about 0.1 cm to about 5 cm. In some embodiments, that distance is about 1 cm, about 2 cm, about 3 cm, about 4 cm, or any value in between.

[0047] Figure 5B shows a configuration in which the channel 305 is defined not only as a recess on one side of the retractor blade 300, but also includes transverse lips 310 along each edge of the recess. The shape of the channel 305 with the added transverse lips 310 is somewhat rounded as shown, but a square or rectangular shape can also be used. Furthermore, the channel 305 does not need to have a substantially flat surface at the bottom of the recess. In some embodiments, the channel 305 is more rounded, but the channel 305 should still include the transverse lips 310 if it can hold the blade extender 100.

[0048] Figure 6 shows blade extender 100B, another variation of blade extender 100. Similar to blade extender 100, blade extender 100B comprises an elongated portion 105B and a blade engaging portion 110B, the blade engaging portion 110B having two engaging tabs 115B and a fixed tab (not shown in this figure) including a projection 125B. The function of these features is largely similar to that of the corresponding features of blade extender 100 as described herein, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. However, blade extender 100B includes a pair of tabs or ribs 135B extending downward or backward from the blade engaging portion 110B.

[0049] Figure 7 shows the distal portion of a modified version of driver 200, referred to as driver 200A, with 205A attached to its distal end. The distal end 205A has three extensions or projections 235A, 240A, and 245A. Extension 235A has an inclined surface 250A at its distal end, and an opening 255A on the proximal side of the inclined surface 250A. When driver 200A receives blade extender 100B, the opening 255A receives projection 125B to hold blade extender 100B in a fixed orientation relative to driver 200A. In this illustrated embodiment, the opening 255A is a through-hole extending completely through extension 235A, but in some embodiments, the functionality of the opening 255A may be achieved by a notch or cutout on the lower side of extension 235A.

[0050] The extensions 240A and 245A each have outward-facing notches configured to receive the downward-facing tab 135B of the blade extender 100B. This configuration provides greater stability to the blade extender 100B when it is secured within the driver 200A.

[0051] Figure 8 shows the engagement state between the driver 200A and the blade extender 100B. The blade extender 100B is fixed to the driver 200A by sliding the blade engagement portion 110B against the distal end 205A of the driver 200A. Fixed position is achieved when the blade extender 100B advances far enough inward until the projection 125B is received by the opening 255A. In one embodiment, both the extension portion 235A and the fixing tab of the blade extender 100B are made of one or more elastic materials that deviate at least partially when subjected to a certain amount of pressure.

[0052] The driver 200A has a shaft (similar to shaft 220) configured to be able to move parallel along the axis defined by the driver 200A. The tip of the shaft can release the blade extender 100B from the driver 200A by applying a biasing force to the extension 235A and / or the fixing tab of the blade extender 100B, so that the projection 125B is released from the opening 255A.

[0053] Figure 9 shows the proximal end of the driver 200A, which has a trigger or release mechanism 260A configured to operate a shaft contained within the driver 200A to control the release of the blade extender 100B from the driver 200A.

[0054] During a surgical procedure, a retractor assembly with at least one retractor blade is used as usual to create a surgical passage to reach the surgical site. In a suitable method of using the blade extender 100, at least one retractor blade may first be advanced toward the surgical site to begin creating a surgical passage to access the surgical site. The surgeon may want to use a blade extender, such as those disclosed herein, to further stabilize the surgical passage. If the surgical passage requires a depth greater than the length of the retractor blade, the blade extender may be used when first establishing the surgical passage. The blade extender may advance along the channel of the retractor blade, or it may advance directly into the surgical passage and then move directly into the channel of the retractor blade by pushing the blade extender into the channel in a direction perpendicular to the axis or plane of the channel when it is ready to be attached to the retractor blade.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the blade extender disclosed herein may advance into the interdiscal space to temporarily fix the retractor blade against the interdiscal cavity.

[0056] Alternatively, using the blade extenders disclosed herein, if tissue becomes lodged around or under the retractor blade, for example, the surgical passage may be returned to its original position without the need to reposition the retractor blade. In such a situation, a suitable blade extender, such as blade extender 100, is advanced into the surgical passage, and the elongated portion 105 is used to push back or retract the displaced tissue. First, the blade extender 100 may be advanced and operated within the surgical passage by connecting it to a suitable driver, such as driver 200. The blade extender 100 may further have a hook-like feature at its distal end for grasping the displaced tissue and pulling it out of the surgical passage, or it may have other curvatures or features.

[0057] In addition to clearing a surgical passage using the blade extender 100 (or tissue shim 100A or blade extender 100B), the blade extender 100 may further maintain the surgical passage. Maintenance of the surgical passage is achieved while restraining tissue. The surgeon inserts the blade engagement portion 110 into a channel of the retractor blade, such as channel 305. This insertion may be achieved by advancing the blade extender along channel 305 or by inserting the blade extender 100 into channel 305 towards its distal end. By pushing the blade engagement portion 110 into channel 305, the engagement tab 115 may bend or deviate inward, thereby attaching the blade engagement portion 110 to channel 305. When fully attached, the engagement tab 115 expands at least partially to fill the space between the side of the blade engagement portion 110 and the side of channel 305. When the driver 200 is used to engage the blade extender 100 with the retractor blade 300, the driver 200 may also be inserted into the channel 305, and if an engagement tab 215 is present, the driver 200 can enter the channel 305 by forcibly compressing or bending the engagement tab 215 inward.

[0058] With the blade extender 100 properly positioned in the channel 305, the driver 200 is released from the blade extender 100 and moves parallel to the proximal side along the channel 305, leaving the blade extender 100 in place on the retractor blade 300. This release is achieved by rotating and locking the handle 210.

[0059] The blade extender 100 may be removed by reinserting the driver 200 into the proximal end of the channel 305 and translating the distal end 205 along the channel 305 until the distal end 205 engages with the blade engagement portion 110 of the blade extender 100. Once the projection 125 engages with the locking mechanism of the driver 200 contained within the distal end 205, the driver 200 is then translated proximally, pulling the blade extender 100 out of the surgical passage together.

[0060] This removal procedure may be used to readjust the tissue within the surgical passage, in which case the blade extender 100 may be reinserted into the channel 305 after the tissue within the surgical passage has been moved laterally or after the surgical site is no longer obstructed in any other manner.

[0061] In some embodiments, a blade extender 100, a tissue shim 100A, or other suitable device consistent with the Disclosure is used to enhance the functionality of the retractor system in which these devices are used. For example, a retractor system may have a retractor blade of adjustable length. Such an adjustable blade may be bulky or complex, and by using the devices disclosed herein together with a simple, non-adjustable blade, an adjustable blade becomes essentially unbulky and uncomplicated.

[0062] Some retractor systems use retractable blades of various lengths and / or shapes instead of adjustable blades. However, this solution requires the system to have many different blades, which increases manufacturing costs, transportation costs, etc. By using the device disclosed herein, the need for blades of different lengths is eliminated, as different lengths and even shapes can be achieved with a single blade when the device disclosed herein is used. Furthermore, the device disclosed herein may be for single use or disposable.

[0063] Some retractor systems feature complex mechanisms that allow the retractor blades to achieve a "level toe" motion when the retractor blades extend. The "level toe" motion is achieved by gradually increasing the blade length as the blade toe out, thereby minimizing the possibility of tissue entering beneath the blade tip as the blade toe out. However, this device may be used to achieve a "level toe" motion by advancing a device such as a blade extender 100 or tissue shim 100A distally along the retractor blade when one or more blades toe out.

[0064] Embodiment The following embodiments are provided only as examples of specific configurations, materials, arrangements, etc., considered by the authors of this disclosure.

[0065] Embodiment 1. A retractor blade engaging portion having a main body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, and configured to be at least partially positioned in the channel of a retractor blade, wherein the main body portion has a first retaining element extending from the main body portion, An extension having a distal end and a proximal end A retractable blade device equipped with this feature.

[0066] Embodiment 2. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 1, wherein the extension portion is substantially flat or curved.

[0067] Embodiment 3. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the extension portion has the characteristics of a hook.

[0068] Embodiment 4. A retractable blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the extension portion is wider than the retractable blade engagement portion.

[0069] Embodiment 5. A retractable blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein at least a portion of the extension extends laterally from the retractable blade engagement portion.

[0070] Embodiment 6. The retractable blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the distal end of the extension portion extends at least about 1 cm, at least about 2 cm, at least about 3 cm, or at least about 4 cm beyond the distal end of the retractable blade engagement portion.

[0071] Embodiment 7. A retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the proximal end of the extension is located (a) on the proximal side of the proximal end, (b) substantially parallel to the proximal end, (c) substantially parallel to the distal end, or (d) between the proximal and distal ends, with respect to the proximal and distal ends of the retractor blade engagement portion.

[0072] Embodiment 8. A retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the main body portion defines a first surface, the extension portion defines a second surface, and the first surface and the second surface are parallel to each other.

[0073] Embodiment 9. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 8, wherein the first and second surfaces are not coplanar.

[0074] Embodiment 10. A retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 9, further comprising a second retaining element.

[0075] Embodiment 11. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 10, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element have elastic protrusions.

[0076] Embodiment 12. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 10 or 11, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element extend in the same plane as the main body portion.

[0077] Embodiment 13. A retractor blade device according to any one of embodiments 10 to 12, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element are configured to engage with at least a portion of the channel of the retractor blade.

[0078] Embodiment 14. A retractor blade device according to any one of embodiments 10 to 13, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element are configured to move the retractor blade device into the channel from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel.

[0079] Embodiment 15. A retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the distal end of the extension portion has a rounded outer shape.

[0080] Embodiment 16. A retractor blade device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the extension portion has at least one waveform edge.

[0081] Embodiment 17. The retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the main body further comprises a driver fixing mechanism.

[0082] Embodiment 18. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 17, wherein the driver fixing mechanism has an elastic portion and a protruding portion.

[0083] Embodiment 19. The retractable blade device according to Embodiment 18, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage with a recess of the retractable blade.

[0084] Embodiment 20. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the elastic portion is substantially coplanar with the main body portion.

[0085] Embodiment 21. A retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the protruding portion extends from a surface defined by the main body portion.

[0086] Embodiment 22. The retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 21, wherein the extension portion has a channel or track extending from a location near the proximal end of the extension portion toward the distal end of the extension portion.

[0087] Embodiment 23. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 22, wherein the channel or track is open at the proximal end and / or at the distal end.

[0088] Embodiment 24. The retractor blade device according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the main body portion further comprises at least one tab extending from the main body portion.

[0089] Embodiment 25. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 24, wherein the tab extends in a direction different from the direction in which the retaining element extends.

[0090] Embodiment 26. The retractor blade device according to Embodiment 25, wherein the orientation of the tabs is perpendicular to the orientation of the retaining element.

[0091] Embodiment 27. A blade device driver configured to engage with a retractor blade device, The handlebars and The long, slender housing, The shaft included inside the housing, A receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the retractable blade device It is equipped with, The handle communicates with the shaft to engage the retractor blade device in a releaseable manner; this is the blade device driver.

[0092] Embodiment 28. The blade device driver according to Embodiment 27, wherein the retractor blade device is the retractor blade device described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 26.

[0093] Embodiment 29. The blade device driver according to Embodiment 28, wherein the receiving portion has a distal opening in the housing configured to receive at least a portion of the main body of the retractor blade device.

[0094] Embodiment 30. A blade device driver according to Embodiment 28 or 29, configured to releasably engage a driver fixing mechanism for a retractor blade device.

[0095] Embodiment 31. A blade device driver according to any one of embodiments 27 to 30, wherein the housing has a first retaining element configured to hold the blade device driver in a channel of a retractor blade.

[0096] Embodiment 32. The blade device driver according to Embodiment 31, wherein the housing has a second retaining element configured to hold the blade device driver within a channel.

[0097] Embodiment 33. The blade device driver according to Embodiment 31 or 32, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element are configured to move the blade device driver into the channel from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel.

[0098] Embodiment 34. A blade device driver according to any one of embodiments 28 to 33, wherein the handle is configured to occupy a fixed position that allows compressive force to be transmitted directly from the handle through the housing to the retractor blade device.

[0099] Embodiment 35. The blade device driver according to any one of embodiments 28 to 34, wherein the receiving portion has three extensions, which are a fixed extension and two receiving extensions, the fixed extension being configured to receive the driver fixing mechanism of the retractor blade device, and at least one of the two receiving extensions has a groove along at least a portion of its length, the groove being configured to receive at least one tab of the retractor blade device.

[0100] Embodiment 36. The blade device driver according to Embodiment 35, wherein the three extensions of the receiving portion are parallel to each other.

[0101] Embodiment 37. A blade device driver according to any one of embodiments 27 to 36, wherein the handle has a trigger release mechanism that extends away from the axis defined by the axis.

[0102] Embodiment 38. A retractor blade having a proximal end and a distal end with a defined plane, the retractor blade having a channel extending from the proximal end toward the distal end, Retractable blade device and It is equipped with, At least a portion of the retractor blade device is configured to engage with the channel of the retractor blade, A retractor blade kit, wherein the retractor blade device is configured to engage with a channel by inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel at a location away from the proximal end of the retractor blade.

[0103] Embodiment 39. The retractor blade kit according to Embodiment 38, wherein the retractor blade device is the retractor blade device described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 26.

[0104] Embodiment 40. The retractable blade kit according to Embodiment 38 or 39, wherein the channel is closed at the distal end of the retractable blade.

[0105] Embodiment 41. A retractable blade kit according to any one of embodiments 38 to 40, wherein the channel is open at the proximal end of the retractable blade.

[0106] Embodiment 42. The retractor blade kit according to Embodiment 41, further configured to engage with a channel by accessing the opening of the channel at the proximal end of the retractor blade and inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel.

[0107] Embodiment 43. A retractor blade kit according to any one of embodiments 38 to 42, further comprising a blade device driver configured to engage with at least a portion of the retractor blade device, the blade device driver being further configured to manipulate the movement of the retractor blade device to engage the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0108] Embodiment 44. The retractor blade kit according to Embodiment 43, wherein the blade device driver is the blade device driver described in any one of Embodiments 27 to 37.

[0109] Embodiment 45. A method for using a retractor blade device, A method for engaging a retractor blade device with a channel of a retractor blade by inserting at least a portion of the retractor blade device into the channel at a location distal to the proximal end of the channel.

[0110] Embodiment 46. The method according to Embodiment 45, wherein the retractor blade device is the retractor blade device described in any one of Embodiments 1 to 26.

[0111] Embodiment 47. The method according to Embodiment 45 or 46, wherein, when engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade, at least a portion of the retractor blade device is moved in a direction perpendicular to the plane defining the channel.

[0112] Embodiment 48. The method according to any one of Embodiments 45 to 47, wherein when engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade, at least a portion of the retractor blade device is engaged with one or more recesses of the channel of the retractor blade.

[0113] Embodiment 49. The method according to any one of embodiments 45 to 48, wherein the retractor blade is positioned within the surgical opening of a patient so as to create a surgical passage before engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0114] Embodiment 50. The method according to Embodiment 49, wherein the retractor blade device is used to sweep the surgical site of the surgical passage and / or interfering tissue before engaging the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0115] Embodiment 51. The method according to any one of Embodiments 45 to 50, wherein the retractor blade and retractor blade device comprises a retractor blade kit according to any one of Embodiments 38 to 44.

[0116] Embodiment 52. The method according to any one of Embodiments 45 to 51, wherein a blade device driver is used to insert a retractor blade device into a surgical passage, to manipulate the movement of the retractor blade device within the surgical passage, and to engage the retractor blade device with the channel of the retractor blade.

[0117] Embodiment 53. The method according to Embodiment 52, wherein the blade device driver is the blade device driver described in any one of Embodiments 27 to 37.

[0118] Embodiment 54. The method according to any one of embodiments 45 to 53, wherein the retractor blade device is simultaneously advanced distally along the channel of the retractor blade while towing out the retractor blade.

[0119] Embodiment 55. The method according to any one of Embodiments 52 to 54, wherein the blade device driver is removed from the retractor blade device so as to leave the retractor blade device in the channel of the retractor blade while removing the blade device driver from the surgical passage.

[0120] Embodiment 56. The method according to Embodiment 55, wherein when removing the blade device driver from the surgical passage, the blade device driver is slid proximal along the channel of the retractor blade and exited through the proximal opening of the channel.

[0121] While specific embodiments are shown and described herein, it should be understood that various other modifications and adjustments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, while various aspects of the claimed subject matter are described herein, these aspects do not need to be used in combination.

[0122] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers used in the specification and claims, such as quantities of components, properties like molecular weight, and reaction conditions, should be understood to be modified in all examples by the term "approximately." Therefore, unless otherwise presented, the numerical parameters described in the specification and the attached claims are approximations, which may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the embodiments of this disclosure. At the very least, without attempting to limit the application of the principle of equivalents in the claims, each numerical parameter should be interpreted by applying the usual rounding techniques, taking into account the number of significant figures stated. Although the numerical ranges and parameters representing the broad scope of this disclosure are approximations, the numbers described in the specific examples are described as accurately as possible. However, every number inherently contains some error that inevitably arises from the standard deviation obtained in each test measurement. In some embodiments, the terms "approximately" and "about" refer to numerical parameters within 10% of the indicated range.

[0123] The terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the,” and similar references used in relation to describing embodiments of this disclosure (particularly in relation to any inventions expressed in the claims), should be construed to encompass both singular and plural unless otherwise specifically indicated herein or unless clearly inconsistent with the context. The enumeration of value ranges herein is merely intended to serve as a simple way to individually refer to each distinct value within that range. Unless otherwise specifically indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually described herein. All methods described herein may be performed in any appropriate order unless otherwise specifically indicated herein or unless clearly inconsistent with the context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., “etc.”) herein is merely intended to further illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and does not limit the scope of this disclosure. The language herein should not be construed to indicate any unclaimed elements essential to the implementation of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0124] The grouping of alternative elements or embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting. Each group member may be claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements described herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in or removed from a group for convenience and / or patentability. In any event of such inclusion or removal, the specification shall be deemed to include a group modified to satisfy the description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0125] Embodiments described herein include the best known methods for carrying out the embodiments disclosed by one or more authors of this disclosure. Needless to say, variations of these described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art by reading the foregoing description. One or more authors anticipate that those skilled in the art will appropriately adopt such variations, and intend that the embodiments of this disclosure will be carried out in ways other than those specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter described in the claims attached to this application, as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, any combination of the aforementioned elements of all possible variations is included in this disclosure unless specifically shown herein or unless it is clearly inconsistent with the context.

[0126] The specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using the phrases “composed of” or “essentially composed of.” When used in the claims, the transitional phrase “composed of,” whether in the original filing wording or added with each amendment, excludes any elements, processes or components not specified in the claims. The transitional phrase “essentially composed of,” limits the claims to the specified materials or processes and any materials or processes that do not substantially affect one or more fundamental novel properties. Embodiments of the disclosure thus claimed are essentially or expressly described herein and made possible.

[0127] Furthermore, if any reference is made to patents and publications through this disclosure, each of these references and publications is individually incorporated herein by reference in whole.

[0128] Finally, the embodiments disclosed herein should be understood as examples of the principles of the disclosure. Other modifications that may be adopted are within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, alternative configurations of the embodiments of the disclosure may be used in accordance with the teachings herein, without limitation, as examples. Accordingly, the disclosure is not limited to the embodiments precisely shown and described.

[0129] Cross-references to related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 131707, filed on 29 December 2020, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A retractable blade device, A retractor blade engaging portion having a main body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, and configured to be at least partially positioned in a channel of a retractor blade, wherein the main body portion has a first retaining element that extends from the side of the main body portion and engages with the side edge of the channel, such that the distal end of the first retaining element is away from the side of the main body portion, and the retractor blade engaging portion has a flexible first retaining element, Having a distal end and a proximal end, and when the retractor blade engagement portion is at least partially located in the channel of the retractor blade, the extension portion extends from the retractor blade and functions as a fixation device for the retractor blade, by being at least partially inserted into the object while the retractor blade engagement portion is at least partially located in the channel of the retractor blade, thereby temporarily fixing the retractor blade to the object. It is equipped with, A retractor blade device in which the first retaining element flexes as the retractor blade engaging portion is pushed into the channel from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel, thereby attaching the retractor blade engaging portion to the channel.

2. The retractor blade device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the extension extends in a second intersecting direction that intersects the retractor blade engagement portion in a direction extending from the distal end of the extension to the proximal end of the extension.

3. The retractable blade device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the extension portion has the characteristics of a hook.

4. The retractor blade device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the width in the direction intersecting the direction extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the extension portion is wider than the width in the direction intersecting the direction extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the retractor blade engaging portion.

5. The retractor blade device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main body portion defines a first surface, the extension portion defines a second surface, and the first surface and the second surface are parallel to each other but not on the same plane.

6. The retractor blade device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a second retaining element extending from the side of the main body portion such that the distal end of the second retaining element is separated from the side of the main body portion.

7. The retractor blade device according to claim 6, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element have elastic protrusions.

8. The retractor blade device according to claim 7, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element extend in the same plane as the main body portion.

9. The retractor blade device according to claim 8, wherein the first retaining element and / or the second retaining element are configured to engage with at least a portion of the side edge of the channel of the retractor blade.

10. The retractor blade device according to claim 9, wherein the second retaining element is flexible, and the second retaining element bends as the retractor blade engaging portion is pushed into the channel from a position perpendicular to the plane defined by the channel, thereby attaching the retractor blade engaging portion to the channel.

11. The retractor blade device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the main body portion further comprises a driver fixing mechanism for fixing a driver configured to fix the retractor blade device to the retractor blade by engagement with the main body portion.

12. The retractor blade device according to claim 11, wherein the driver fixing mechanism has an elastic portion and a protruding portion.

13. The retractable blade device according to claim 12, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage with a recess of the retractable blade or with the driver.

14. The retractor blade device according to claim 13, wherein the elastic portion is substantially in the same plane as the main body portion.

15. The retractor blade device according to claim 14, wherein the protruding portion extends from a surface determined by the main body portion.

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