Adjustable Bone Hook Actuator for Variable Pedicle Dimensions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical bone hooks are fixed in size and shape, making them inadequate for accommodating the varying anatomical dimensions of different patients' pedicle, lamina, or transverse process bones, which can lead to improper fitting and stabilization during spine-related surgeries.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable bone hook assembly with a main body, jaw, and actuator that allows for varying dimensions of the slot to accommodate different bone sizes, featuring a rod receiving portion with threaded side walls and an actuator that translates rotational movement into axial variation of the slot, enabling easy adjustment and secure fixation using a clamping force or ratchet mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size bone hooks are used to accommodate different patient anatomies, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying pedicle, lamina, or transverse process bone dimensions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bone hook incorporates a movable jaw that can be adjusted relative to the main body, transforming the static fixed-size hook into a dynamic adjustable structure. The jaw can be positioned at multiple locations along the main body to accommodate different bone dimensions, while the overall hook structure remains relatively simple through the use of a sliding mechanism guided by slots and grooves.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the dimensional parameter of the bone hook by allowing the jaw to be repositioned along the main body. This enables the same hook to adapt to various bone sizes and shapes by adjusting the distance between the jaw and main body, without requiring multiple different hook designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed-size bone hooks are manufactured to accommodate different anatomies, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable bone hook serves multiple functions by accommodating different bone dimensions with a single device design. The main body with its slots and grooves, combined with the movable jaw, creates a universal hook that can adapt to various anatomical variations, eliminating the need to manufacture and maintain multiple fixed-size hook varieties.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed bone hooks are used for stabilization, then structural simplicity is maintained, but fitting precision for individual patient anatomy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bone hook incorporates a movable jaw that can be adjusted relative to the main body, transforming the static fixed-size hook into a dynamic adjustable structure. The jaw can be positioned at multiple locations along the main body to accommodate different bone dimensions, while the overall hook structure remains relatively simple through the use of a sliding mechanism guided by slots and grooves.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable bone hook assembly effectively accommodates multiple pedicle, lamina, or transverse process bone dimensions, ensuring proper fitting and stabilization during surgeries by allowing easy adjustment to fit varying anatomical sizes, thereby enhancing surgical precision and efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator includes a fastener with external threads, and a threaded bore disposed on either the main body or the jaw. The actuator is configured to translate a rotational movement of the fastener to an axial variation of the slot.
Implementation Method 2
The set screw threadingly engages the side walls to tighten down onto the rod; thus, positioning the rod firmly within the channel of the rod receiving portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A bone hook having a displaceable jaw is provided. The hook includes a rod receiving portion and main body with a jaw defining a slot for receiving a bone, and an actuator configured to vary the dimension of the slot. The actuator is configured to translate a rotation into an adjustment of a height of the slot thereby gripping or clamping a pedicle, lamina, or transverse process bone between the jaw and main body.