Cochlear Implant Electrode Insertion Tool with Spring-Loaded Retractor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional insertion tools for pre-curved electrode arrays in cochlear implants are cumbersome and difficult to use, particularly in releasing the array from the insertion tool and retracting a straightening member without dislodging the array.
Innovation Solution
An insertion tool with a handle assembly, slider assembly, insertion assembly, and retractor assembly that includes a spring-loaded retractor member to facilitate the insertion and retrieval of the pre-curved electrode array, allowing for easy handling and one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional insertion tools are used to insert the pre-curved electrode array, then the array can be inserted into the cochlea, but the tool is cumbersome and difficult to use for releasing the array and retracting the straightening member
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool is divided into distinct functional assemblies: a handle assembly for user operation, a slider assembly for controlling insertion depth, an insertion assembly with holder member for securing the lead, and a retractor assembly for releasing the array and retracting the straightening member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving ease of operation while maintaining manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor assembly is disposed at least partially within the handle assembly, and the slider assembly is actuated within the handle assembly. The holder member is coupled to the lead within the insertion assembly. This nested configuration reduces the overall device complexity by allowing components to be housed within each other, making the tool less cumbersome while preserving all necessary functions.
2Ease of manufacture
If a straightening member is used to facilitate insertion of the pre-curved electrode array, then insertion is easier, but retracting the straightening member is difficult and tends to dislodge the electrode array portion out of position
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the insertion tool and the straightening member. It selectively couples to the straightening member and provides controlled retraction, preventing direct manipulation that would cause dislodgement. The retractor assembly mediates the separation process, ensuring the electrode array remains in position while still allowing removal of the straightening member.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor assembly is pre-configured within the insertion tool to engage the straightening member before extraction. The spring-loaded retractor member is positioned to automatically engage the straightening member when inserted, preparing the system for controlled retraction. This preliminary positioning ensures that when retraction is needed, the mechanism is already in place to prevent dislodgement.
3Manufacturing precision
If the pre-curved electrode array portion is inserted into the cochlea, then hearing restoration can be achieved, but the insertion process causes trauma to the cochlea
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-curved electrode array portion is designed with a flexible carrier that allows the array to conform to the curved geometry of the scala tympani. The flexible nature of the carrier reduces mechanical trauma during insertion and positioning, while the pre-curved configuration ensures accurate positioning along the cochlear spiral without requiring forceful manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tool incorporates dynamic mechanisms including a slider assembly that allows controlled advancement and retraction, and a spring-loaded retractor member that provides automatic engagement and controlled withdrawal. These dynamic features enable precise positioning control during insertion and minimize trauma by allowing gentle, controlled movements rather than forceful manipulation.
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 tool enables efficient and precise insertion of the pre-curved electrode array into the cochlea, ensuring accurate positioning and easy retrieval of the straightening member, thereby simplifying the surgical procedure and reducing trauma to the cochlea.
Implementation Method 1
The retractor assembly may comprise a spring-loaded retractor member configured to move from a distal position to a proximal position in response to actuation by the user of the slider assembly to at least partially retract the straightening member from the pre-curved electrode array portion
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary insertion tools, systems, and methods for inserting a pre-curved electrode array portion of a lead into a bodily orifice are described herein. An exemplary insertion tool includes a handle assembly, a slider assembly, an insertion assembly coupled to the handle assembly, and a retractor assembly disposed at least partially within the handle assembly and configured to selectively couple to a straightening member inserted into the pre-curved electrode array portion and at least partially retract the straightening member from the pre-curved electrode array portion in response to actuation by a user of the slider assembly. The retractor assembly may comprise a spring-loaded retractor member configured to move from a distal position to a proximal position in response to actuation by the user of the slider assembly to at least partially retract the straightening member from the pre-curved electrode array portion. Corresponding insertion tools, systems, and methods are also described.