Pivotable Handle Securing Device for Cranial Clamp Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current instruments for securing cranial clamps to the skull require excessive force and are not easy to handle, complicating the fixation process during surgical procedures like craniotomies.
Innovation Solution
A securing device with pivotable handles and a gripping mechanism that applies a proximally-acting force to secure and cut the elongated section of the fixation device, such as a cranial clamp, allowing for easy handling and efficient tensioning without rotating the clamp during the fixation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional instruments are used to secure cranial clamps to the skull, then the fixation function is achieved, but excessive force is required and the instrument is difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument incorporates a ratchet mechanism that converts small, easy-to-apply manual forces into large securing forces through incremental engagement. The handles are designed to pivot dynamically, allowing the surgeon to apply force efficiently while the ratchet maintains the secured state without requiring continuous force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument acts as an intermediary between the surgeon's manual input and the clamp securing process. The handle mechanism transmits and amplifies the surgeon's input force, while the ratchet mechanism mediates the force transmission to the clamp, providing mechanical advantage and reducing the direct force requirement from the surgeon.
2Productivity
If conventional instruments are used to secure cranial clamps, then the fixation is achieved, but the instrument requires excessive force and complex operations
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument combines multiple functions into a single device: the handles provide both the gripping function and the force application function, while the ratchet mechanism integrates both securing and locking functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate instruments or multiple操作步骤, improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides self-locking functionality, where the instrument automatically maintains the secured state without requiring continuous manual input. Once the surgeon applies the initial securing force, the ratchet engages and holds the position, allowing the surgeon to release the handles while the clamp remains securely fastened.
3Ease of operation
If the clamp is rotated during fixation, then positioning adjustment is possible, but the fixation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is designed to accommodate and maintain the clamp's rotational positioning during the securing process. The handles and gripping mechanism are configured to allow the clamp to be rotated into the correct position before engagement, and the ratchet mechanism maintains this position throughout the securing operation, eliminating the need for post-securing adjustments.
4Reliability
If excessive force is applied to secure the clamp, then secure fixation is achieved, but the risk of damaging bone or tissue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism provides controlled, incremental force application rather than sudden excessive force. The handles are designed to distribute the securing force evenly through the ratchet engagement, preventing localized stress concentrations that could damage bone or tissue while still achieving reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument's mechanical components act as intermediaries that distribute and control the force transmission to the clamp and underlying tissue. The handle mechanism and ratchet system mediate the force application, transforming the surgeon's input into controlled, distributed securing forces that reduce the risk of tissue damage while maintaining fixation security.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a securing device that is used to secure a fixation device to two bone portions to promote healing between the two bone portions. The bone portions commonly include a skull bone portion and a skull bone flap or implant, and the fixation device is commonly a cranial clamp. The securing device provides for securing the fixation device in a uniform, single movement as opposed to currently available products. The securing device has two handles pivotably connected, and a gripping means moveably associated with one handle. As the handles are activated, the gripping means travels proximally along the one handle and grips an elongated section of the fixation device and exerts a tensioning force along the shaft of the elongated section prior to the cutting means cutting the elongated shaft to secure the fixation device in place.