One-Handed Bone Marker Deployment System for Arthroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marker deployment systems for arthroscopic surgical procedures require a two-handed operation to disengage the bone marker, which is inconvenient and can slow down the surgical process.
Innovation Solution
A marker deployment system designed to be operated with one hand, featuring a handle with a knob that is rotatable about a knob axis of rotation, allowing for securement and release of the bone marker without the need for a second hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-handed operation is used to disengage the bone marker, then the marker can be securely held and released, but the ease of operation deteriorates and procedural efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the functions of holding the marker and operating the release mechanism into distinct components: the driver tube holds the marker while the knob on the inner rod operates independently to engage/disengage the retention fastener. This segmentation allows one hand to operate the knob while the other stabilizes the handle, improving ease of operation without compromising securement reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The inner rod acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator's hand and the retention fastener. By rotating the inner rod via the knob, the operator indirectly controls the engagement and disengagement of the retention fastener with the bone marker, enabling precise control with one hand while maintaining secure attachment during the procedure
2Reliability
If a two-handed operation is required, then the marker deployment can be controlled precisely, but the productivity deteriorates due to slower procedural speed
Solution Approach 1:
The inner rod and knob mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-operating within the driver assembly. The surgeon can independently control the engagement and disengagement of the retention fastener through the knob without requiring assistance from another hand or assistant, thereby increasing procedural speed while maintaining controlled deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static two-handed operation requirement to a dynamic one-handed operation capability. The rotatable knob on the inner rod provides dynamic control over the retention fastener engagement, allowing rapid adjustment and deployment while maintaining precision, thus improving productivity without sacrificing controlled deployment
Data Source
AI summary
A marker deployment system and method of operation are provided. The system includes a handle extending radially from and longitudinally along a main axis. A driver tube is coupled to and extends from the handle along the main axis from a proximal tube end to a distal tube end and defines a tube bore extending axially therethrough. The distal tube end is configured to support a bone marker. An inner rod extends axially through the driver tube to a distal rod end that includes a retention fastener configured to engage and selectively secure the bone marker at the distal tube end. A knob is operably coupled to the inner rod and is rotatable about a knob axis of rotation extending along the main axis to secure or release the bone marker. At least a portion of the handle extends axially beyond the knob to define the proximal handle end.