A sinus lifting apparatus

Abstract

A sinus lifting apparatus comprising: a drill bit configured to penetrate maxillary bone; a drill holder connecting the drill bit to a handpiece; a first optical fiber extending through a bit of the drill bit, configured to transmit a light beam from a light source toward the tip of the drill bit; a second optical fiber configured to receive reflected light from the tip of the drill bit and transmit it to a light sensor; a detection system configured to identify proximity to a membrane by reflected light of the second optical fiber; an alert mechanism configured to notify a user when the drill bit approaches indicated by the detection system detect approaching to the membrane; and a fluid delivery system extending through the tip of the drill bit, for lifting the membrane by hydraulic power, for generating a cavity to be filled with bone-building material.

Description

[0001] A SINUS LIFTING APPARATUS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of sinus lifting.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] Dental implantation in the posterior maxilla is often hindered by insufficient bone due to missing molars.

[0006] Traditional sinus lift techniques include ■

[0007] Open Sinus Lift: Involves cutting the gum and accessing the sinus cavity directly. Though effective, it is invasive, painful, and requires long recovery.

[0008] Closed Sinus Lift: Less traumatic, performed through the implant site, but still requires skill and carries risk of membrane perforation.

[0009] Both methods demand surgical expertise and carry morbidity risks.

[0010] There is a long felt need for a safer technique that minimizes trauma and simplifies the procedure.

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a solution to the above-mentioned and other problems of the prior art. Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a sinus lifting apparatus comprising: a drill bit configured to penetrate maxillary bone; a drill holder connecting the drill bit to a handpiece; a first optical fiber extending through a tip of the drill bit, configured to transmit a light beam from a light source toward the tip of the drill bit; a second optical fiber configured to receive reflected light from the tip of the drill bit and transmit it to a light sensor; a detection system configured to identify proximity to a Schneiderian membrane by reflected light of the second optical fiber; an alert mechanism configured to notify a user when the drill bit approaches indicated by the detection system detect approaching to the Schneiderian membrane; and a fluid delivery system extending through the tip of the drill bit, for lifting the Schneiderian membrane by hydraulic power, for generating a cavity to be filled with bone-building material.

[0014] According to embodiments of the present invention, the alert mechanism comprises an audible alarm, a visual indicator, or a combination thereof. - 3 -

[0015] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fluid delivery system including: a fluid reservoir; a pump; a fluid conduit extending through the drill bit; wherein the fluid delivery system is configured to inject fluid between the maxillary bone and the Schneiderian membrane to elevate the membrane and create a cavity.

[0016] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fluid of the fluid delivery system is selected from the group consisting of sterile water, saline solution, and biocompatible hydraulic fluid.

[0017] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fluid of the fluid delivery system is selected from the group consisting of sterile water, saline solution, and biocompatible hydraulic fluid.

[0018] The cavity formed by the elevated membrane is configured to receive a bone-building material selected from the group consisting of autografts, allografts, xenografts, and synthetic bone substitutes.

[0019] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fluid of the fluid delivery system is selected from the group consisting of sterile water, saline solution, and biocompatible hydraulic fluid.

[0020] The handpiece comprises electronic components configured to control the light source, light sensor, and alert mechanism. 21851

[0021] - 4 -

[0022] According to embodiments of the present invention, the fluid of the fluid delivery system may be sterile water, saline solution, and biocompatible hydraulic fluid.

[0023] According to embodiments of the present invention, the detection system is configured to automatically stop drilling upon detecting proximity to the Schneiderian membrane.

[0024] According to embodiments of the present invention, the drill bit and drill holder are configured to be detachable from the handpiece.

[0025] According to embodiments of the present invention, the light source emits light such as lamp light, laser light, LED (Light Emitting Diode), infrared light, and ultraviolet light, any length of the light waves, polarized source of light while looking for change in polarization on dispersion and reflection of the source light, nonpolarized source of light while looking for change in light intensity of the reflected light, LED source of light for any of waves mentioned in a, coherent source of light (LASER) in any length of light wave.

[0026] According to embodiments of the present invention, the alert mechanism includes a progressive warning system that increases in intensity as the tip of the drill bit approaches the Schneiderian membrane. According to embodiments of the present invention, the light source and light sensor are installed on the drill bit.

[0027] According to embodiments of the present invention, the light source and light sensor are installed on a non-rotatable part of the apparatus.

[0028] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] Preferred embodiments, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention are described herein in conjunction with the following drawings:

[0030] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0031] Fig. 2 is an exploded view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0032] Fig. 3 is a sectioned view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0033] Fig. 4a is a sectioned side view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention. - 6 -

[0034] Fig. 4b is a sectioned perspective view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a front view of a sinus lifting apparatus, according to preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0036] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0037] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0038] The present invention will be understood from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments ("best mode"), which are meant to be descriptive and not limiting. For the sake of brevity, some well-known features, methods, systems, procedures, components, circuits, and so on, are not described in detail.

[0039] The present invention provides a device and method for performing sinus lifts with the following features ■

[0040] Optical Detection: A drill bit with embedded optical fibers for detecting the Schneiderian membrane of a patient by projecting light throughout a tip of the drill and analyzing the reflected light, warning a user when the drill bit is about to puncture the membrane, thereby preventing accidental perforation of the membrane. 21851

[0041] - 7 -

[0042] Hydraulic Elevation: Once the membrane is detected, sterile fluid is injected through the drill to gently lift the membrane and create a cavity for bone -building material.

[0043] Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed through the implant site, avoiding gum incisions and reducing recovery time.

[0044] The sinus lifting device is in a form of a drill bit 11 for penetrating a maxillary bone (not shown), a drill holder 12 which connects the drill bit 11 to a handpiece 13 or a motor. The handpiece 13 may also comprise electronic components.

[0045] A drilling button 24 is used for turning on I off the rotation of the drill bit 11. If element 24 is a slide or knob, the user may change the drilling rotation speed by the device (slide I knob).

[0046] Another button 25 is used as an on / off switch that activates I deactivates fluid flow out of the fluid conduit. If element 25 is or uses a slide or knob, the user may change the fluid flow rate.

[0047] Through the tip of the drill bit 11 and the drill holder 12 passes a first optical fiber 14 for conveying a light beam for a source 16, and a second optical fiber through which passes a reflection of the light beam to a light sensor 17.

[0048] While drilling a maxillary bone, a light beam radiated from light source 16 through the optical fiber 14 out of drill bit hits the bone is reflected back through the second optical fiber 15 to a light sensor 17. When the tip of the drill bit approaches a Schneiderian membrane, the reflected light characteristics changes thereby allowing detecting that the tip of the drill bit is about to puncture the membrane. By warning the physician, e.g., by a sound alarm, he may avoid puncturing the membrane.

[0049] The apparatus comprises a fluid reservoir 21; a fluid pump 22; a fluid conduit 20 extending through the tip of the drill bit 11; wherein the fluid delivery system is configured to inject fluid between the maxillary bone (not shown) and the Schneiderian membrane (not shown) to elevate the membrane and create a cavity, in which bone-building material will be injected.

[0050] At this stage, the fluid is ejected through a tube 20 out of the drill bit. Assuming that the drilling is carried out from the lower part of the bone, the ejected water enters between the bone and the membrane, and as a result the membrane is lifted up.

[0051] At this stage, a "bone-building" material is placed into the generated cavity. Over time, usually within 4 to 9 months, these materials are gradually resorbed and replaced by the patient’s own bone, creating a stable foundation for dental implants.

[0052] Here are the main types of bone-building materials: - 9 -

[0053] Autografts^ Bone taken from the patient’s own body (e.g., chin or hip). These have the highest potential for bone regeneration because they contain living cells and growth factors.

[0054] Allografts: Bone sourced from a donor of the same species (human). These are processed to remove cells and reduce immune response, and they support bone growth without needing a second surgical site.

[0055] Xenografts: Bone derived from animals, typically bovine (cow). These are highly biocompatible and provide a strong scaffold for bone formation, though they are slower to resorb.

[0056] Synthetic materials: Such as hydroxyapatite or B'tricalcium phosphate (B’TCP). These are engineered to mimic bone structure and promote regeneration while minimizing risks of disease transmission.

[0057] This configuration enables real-time sensing of the membrane, allowing the drilling process to stop automatically before contact, thereby preventing puncturing the membrane.

[0058] As mentioned, one way of warning a user, i.e., a physician, about the distance of the tip of the drill bit to the membrane is by playing a sound. For example, as the drill gets closer to the membrane, the sound played to the physician increases. Of course, other means are can be used, such as light, e.g., turning on a red color lamp, blinking a light placed in a location seen by the physician, and so on. Of course, the light alarm may be played along with the sound alarm. 21851

[0059] - 10 -

[0060] As the drill bit rotates, there are some configurations for the light source and light sensor:

[0061] (a) The light source and the light sensor are installed on the drill bit, thereby rotating along with the drill bit.

[0062] (b) The light source and the light sensor are stationary, i.e., are not disposed on the drill bit, but rather on a stationary part of the apparatus, such as on the handpiece. In this case, the light reaches the light sensor only when the optical fiber is placed inline with the light source.

[0063] (c) Using more than two optical fibers, like the barrels of a Gatling machine gun. Thus, the number the light sensor senses the reflected light is more often that in option (b).

[0064] For the sake of simplicity, the electrical power source is neither detailed nor illustrated. Nevertheless, it should be understood that the power source may be domestic power source as well as battery power source, whether chargeable or not.

[0065] In the figures and / or description herein, the following reference numerals (Reference Signs List) have been mentioned:

[0066] - numeral 100 denotes a sinus lifting device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] - numeral 11 denotes a drill bit;

[0068] - numeral 12 denotes a drill holder; 21851

[0069] - 11 -

[0070] - numeral 13 denotes a handpiece which may also store electronic components;

[0071] - numeral 14 denotes an optical fiber, for passing therethrough a light beam;

[0072] - numeral 15 denotes an optical fiber, for passing therethrough a light to a light sensor;

[0073] - numeral 16 denotes a light source;

[0074] - numeral 17 denotes a light sensor;

[0075] - numeral 20 denotes a fluid conduit;

[0076] - numeral 21 denotes a fluid reservoir;

[0077] - numeral 22 denotes a fluid pump;

[0078] - numeral 23 denotes a fluid tube;

[0079] - numeral 24 denotes a drilling button I slide I knob; and

[0080] - numeral 25 denotes an on / off button I slide I knob fore activating I deactivating I changing the flow rate out of the fluid conduit.

[0081] The foregoing description and illustrations of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the above description in any form.

[0082] Any term that has been defined above and used in the claims, should to be interpreted according to this definition.

Claims

- 12 -CLAIMS1. A sinus lifting apparatus comprising: a drill bit configured to penetrate maxillary bone; a drill holder connecting the drill bit to a handpiece; a first optical fiber extending through a bit of the drill bit, configured to transmit a light beam from a light source toward the tip of the drill bit; a second optical fiber configured to receive reflected light from the tip of the drill bit and transmit it to a light sensor; a detection system configured to identify proximity to a Schneiderian membrane by reflected light of the second optical fiber; an alert mechanism configured to notify a user when the drill bit approaches indicated by the detection system detect approaching to the Schneiderian membrane; and a fluid delivery system extending through the tip of the drill bit, for lifting the Schneiderian membrane by hydraulic power, for generating a cavity to be filled with bone-building material.

2. The sinus lifting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the alert mechanism comprises an audible alarm, a visual indicator, or a combination thereof.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid delivery system comprising: a fluid reservoir; a pump; and a fluid conduit extending through the drill bit;wherein the fluid delivery system is configured to inject fluid between the maxillary bone and the Schneiderian membrane to move the membrane away and create a cavity.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid of the fluid delivery system is selected from the group consisting of sterile water, saline solution, and biocompatible hydraulic fluid.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cavity formed by the elevated membrane is configured to receive a bone-building material selected from the group consisting of autografts, allografts, xenografts, and synthetic bone substitutes.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the handpiece comprises electronic components configured to control the light source, light sensor, and alert mechanism.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detection system is configured to automatically stop drilling upon detecting proximity to the Schneiderian membrane.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drill bit and drill holder are configured to be detachable from the handpiece.- 14 -9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source emits a light selected from a group consisting of lamp light, laser light, LED (Light Emitting Diode), infrared light, and ultraviolet light, any length of the light waves, polarized source of light while looking for change in polarization on dispersion and reflection of the source light, non-polarized source of light while looking for change in light intensity of the reflected light, LED source of light for any of waves mentioned in a, coherent source of light (LASER) in any length of light wave.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the alert mechanism includes a progressive warning system that increases in intensity as the tip of the drill bit approaches the Schneiderian membrane.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source and light sensor are installed on the drill bit.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source and light sensor are installed on a non-rotatable part of the apparatus.

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