Discectomy Instrument Rotary Scraper Disc Nucleus Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal surgery instruments are inefficient and difficult to use for disintegrating and removing the nucleus of the spinal disc between adjacent vertebrae, requiring significant time and effort from surgeons.
Innovation Solution
A discectomy instrument comprising a handle, rotary scraper, barrel, drive shaft, outer sleeve, and retaining clip, which allows for controlled and efficient removal of disc portions by transmitting torque to a rotary scraper with angled blades, enabling effective cutting and removal of disc nucleus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional instruments are used to remove disc nucleus, then the procedure can be completed, but it requires significant time and effort from surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument employs a rotary scraper that rotates within the disc space, transforming the static removal process into a dynamic one. The rotation enables continuous cutting and removal of disc nucleus material, significantly improving surgical efficiency and reducing operative time compared to traditional static instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional manual mechanical removal methods with a rotary mechanical system. The driven scraper rotates to mechanically disintegrate and remove the nucleus pulposus, substituting the labor-intensive manual process with an automated mechanical system that reduces surgeon effort and time
2Ease of operation
If traditional disc removal methods are used, then the nucleus can be removed, but the process is difficult to use and requires significant effort
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument replaces manual force application with a driven rotary mechanism. The scraper is rotated by a drive shaft that transmits rotational force, eliminating the need for surgeons to manually manipulate and force instruments within the confined disc space, thereby reducing effort and improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary scraper features curved or angled blades that conform to the cylindrical geometry of the disc space. This curved design allows the scraper to effectively engage and remove nucleus material throughout the entire disc circumference, making the instrument easier to operate compared to straight-edged traditional tools
3Adaptability or versatility
If the annulus is pierced to access the nucleus, then the nucleus can be removed, but motion within the disc space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary scraper is designed to rotate within the disc space after annular puncture, providing dynamic motion that enables effective engagement of nucleus material. This rotational movement compensates for the limited access through the small puncture opening, allowing versatile operation within the constrained disc space without requiring complex instrument structures
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument features a nested structure where the rotary scraper is contained within a protective sleeve or housing that can be inserted through the annular puncture. The scraper rotates within this nested configuration, enabling complex motion within the disc space while maintaining a relatively simple overall instrument structure that can access through the limited puncture opening
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
Facilitates efficient and easy removal of spinal disc nucleus portions, reducing surgical time and improving ease of use for surgeons by allowing controlled motion and efficient cutting within the disc space.
Implementation Method 1
a rotary scraper with angled blades, enabling effective cutting and removal of disc nucleus
Implementation Method 2
The discectomy instrument preferably includes a handle, a rotary scraper, a barrel, a drive shaft, an outer sleeve and a retaining clip
Data Source
AI summary
A discectomy instrument capable of removing portions of the spinal disc between adjacent vertebrae in a controlled manner that is efficient and easy to use. The discectomy instrument may include a handle, a rotary scraper, a barrel, a drive shaft, an outer sleeve and a retaining clip.