Cable Passer Sheath for Minimizing Incision Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing the end hole of a cable passer during orthopedic surgical procedures can be challenging due to tissue interference, often requiring larger incisions that lead to increased infection risk, slower healing, more scarring, and longer operation times.
Innovation Solution
A cable passer sheath is designed to engage the end hole of a cable passer, featuring a passage connecting the cable passer engagement opening and cable engagement opening, allowing for easier access and reduced incision size by enabling retrograde passage of the cable, which facilitates the procedure without visible obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a larger incision is made to access the end hole of the cable passer, then the accessibility to the end hole is improved, but the infection risk increases and healing slows down
Solution Approach 1:
A sheath is introduced as an intermediary component that facilitates cable passage through tissue. The sheath acts as a mediator between the cable and the tissue, allowing the cable to be passed through a smaller incision while maintaining accessibility to the end hole. The sheath's interior surface provides a smooth pathway that reduces friction and enables easy cable insertion without requiring large incisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The problem is solved by changing the dimensional approach from direct linear access through large incision to a guided pathway approach. The sheath creates a defined three-dimensional pathway through the tissue, allowing the cable to be directed along a specific trajectory rather than requiring direct exposure through large incision. This dimensional transformation enables access through smaller openings.
2Ease of operation
If a larger incision is made to access the end hole, then the cable passage is facilitated, but the scarring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath serves as a mediator that enables cable passage through a controlled, smaller incision. By providing a pre-formed pathway, the sheath eliminates the need for large incisions that would cause excessive scarring. The sheath itself becomes the vehicle for cable insertion, allowing the cable to be passed through minimal tissue disruption.
3Ease of operation
If a larger incision is made, then the end hole accessibility is improved, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is prepared and positioned before cable insertion. By having the sheath in place beforehand, the cable can be quickly passed through the pre-formed pathway without requiring time-consuming manual manipulation or enlargement of the incision. The preliminary placement of the sheath streamlines the subsequent cable insertion process.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable passer sheath engages the end hole of a cable passer. The sheath includes an outer body having an outer diameter and having a cable passer engagement opening at a cable passer engagement end thereof and a cable engagement opening at a cable engagement end thereof. The cable passer engagement opening and cable engagement opening are connected by a passage through the outer body.