Dual-Element Surgical Device for Precise Implant Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgeons face difficulties in manipulating multiple instruments to precisely position and attach surgical members, such as jigs or implants, within limited access spaces during minimally invasive procedures, where fine movements are required and visibility is obstructed by tools and hands, and small fasteners are hard to handle and position.
Innovation Solution
A dual-element surgical device comprising a first element with a driver and a second element acting as a guide and sheath, where the first element inserts and drives fasteners into the patient, and the second element provides a striking force to attach the member to the bone, with features like a window for remote fastener insertion and a coupler for secure attachment, aiding in precise positioning and attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate devices are used for positioning and attaching the member, then positioning accuracy and attachment function are achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to manipulate multiple instruments simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the positioning element and attachment element into a single integrated device. The positioning element includes a shaft with a driver at its distal end, while the attachment element includes a bore that receives the shaft. This integration allows the surgeon to perform both positioning and attachment functions with one instrument rather than multiple separate devices, resolving the contradiction between achieving precise positioning and reducing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple instruments are manipulated simultaneously, then positioning and attachment functions are performed, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited access space and obstructed view
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element (shaft) is nested within the attachment element (bore), creating a telescoping structure. The shaft fits within the bore and can be inserted and removed through the bore's opening. This nested configuration allows both elements to be manipulated as a single unit through a single access point, eliminating the need to simultaneously manipulate multiple instruments in limited surgical spaces and improving ease of operation.
3Strength
If small fasteners are used for attachment, then attachment strength is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in manipulating and positioning the small fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The driver at the distal end of the shaft serves as an intermediary tool that engages with the fastener's head. The driver allows the surgeon to manipulate the fastener indirectly through the shaft and bore structure, rather than attempting to directly handle the small fastener with fine-tipped instruments. This intermediary mechanism makes fastener insertion and positioning significantly easier while maintaining secure attachment.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the surgical procedure is performed in a minimally intrusive manner, then patient trauma is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited access space for instrument manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional elements: the shaft for positioning, the bore for attachment, and the driver for fastener insertion. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while being delivered through a minimally invasive access point. The telescoping nature of the segmented structure allows it to be compact for insertion yet provide sufficient working length for precise positioning and attachment operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device for positioning a member and attaching the member within the patient. A first element comprises a shaft having a driver at distal end. A second element includes an internal bore extending through the length, and a coupler at a second end to attach to the member. The shaft is sized to fit within the bore with the driver end positioned adjacent to the member to affix a fastener. In use, the second element is attached to the member. The first element is inserted into the second element and may be used as a striking instrument to affix the member within the patient. The second element is then used as a guide for positioning a fastener relative to the member, and the driver of the first element is used to mount the fastener to the bone and attach the member.