Angled Sensor Mount for Lateral Spinal Instrument Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instrument alignment systems are inadequate for lateral spinal surgeries, as they are designed to provide accurate angular orientation with respect to a vertical plumb line, which is insufficient for procedures where instruments are positioned horizontally or at significant angles from vertical, potentially leading to neurological injuries.
Innovation Solution
A lateral instrument system with a sensor that includes an accelerometer or other device to provide angular orientation information, where the sensor is positioned vertically while the surgical instrument is held laterally, allowing for accurate measurement and display of angles relative to both vertical and horizontal planes, using a handle or tool with a mounting mechanism to secure the instrument and sensor, and a processing device to display the necessary angular data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor chip is aligned with the axis of the surgical instrument and programmed to provide angular measurements with respect to a vertical plumb line, then accurate angular orientation measurements are provided for vertically oriented instruments, but the sensor chip cannot accurately measure angular orientation for laterally oriented instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by mounting the sensor chip perpendicular to the instrument axis rather than parallel. This 90-degree angular reorientation allows the accelerometer, which measures along its sensitive axis, to detect gravitational reference in a direction perpendicular to the instrument's longitudinal axis. This enables accurate angular measurement for laterally oriented instruments while maintaining compatibility with vertically oriented instruments, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision for vertical instruments and adaptability to lateral surgical positions
2Measurement precision
If multiple accelerometers are used to provide angular measurements in multiple directions, then comprehensive angular orientation data is obtained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent avoids increasing device complexity by using a single accelerometer mounted perpendicular to the instrument axis. This perpendicular mounting configuration allows the same accelerometer to provide comprehensive angular orientation data for both vertical and lateral surgical positions by referencing gravity in a perpendicular direction, eliminating the need for multiple accelerometers while maintaining measurement comprehensiveness
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
Enables precise alignment and trajectory control of surgical instruments during lateral spinal surgeries, reducing the risk of neurological injury by providing accurate angular orientation information with respect to both vertical and horizontal planes, without the need for reprogramming sensors or using multiple accelerometers.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor chip having an accelerometer that is oriented with the direction of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument guide for use with a surgical or other instrument that positions an angular measurement sensor at a perpendicular angle to the shaft of the instrument. In this manner, where the sensor is programmed to work relative to gravity, or a vertical plumb line, the perpendicular placement allows the measurement and display of lateral angles relative to horizontal.