Flexible Strap Non-Rigid Spinal Retraction System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal retraction systems are rigid, making it difficult to conform to patient anatomy, leading to potential tissue damage and the need for a bed-mounted arm for stabilization, while also limiting effective muscle retraction and visualization of the surgical site.
Innovation Solution
A non-rigid retractor system using flexible straps made of biocompatible materials, anchored to the spine or other body parts internally and secured externally, allowing for adjustable retraction and reduced tissue damage, with optional anchoring devices like rings for securing the straps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid retraction systems are used, then structural stability is provided, but the ability to conform to patient anatomy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible straps made of biocompatible materials that can conform to the patient's anatomy while providing sufficient retraction force. These flexible elements replace rigid structures, allowing the retractor to adapt to irregular body contours and surgical site geometries without sacrificing structural integrity for its intended function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of rigidity to flexibility in the retractor design. By using flexible materials with appropriate mechanical properties, the system achieves both adaptability to patient anatomy and sufficient stability to maintain retraction position during surgery.
2Force
If rigid retraction systems are used, then retraction force is maintained, but tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible straps are used to distribute retraction force over larger tissue areas, reducing localized stress and preventing damage. The flexibility allows the material to conform to tissue surfaces without creating sharp pressure points that could cause injury.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of biocompatible flexible materials combines the necessary mechanical strength to maintain retraction force with surface properties that are gentle on tissue, reducing harmful effects while preserving functional performance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If bed-mounted arm is used for stabilization, then retractor position is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible strap system is designed to be self-retaining through its material properties and anchoring mechanism. The straps maintain their own position through elastic recovery and friction against tissue, eliminating the need for external bed-mounted arms or complex stabilization mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the bed-mounted arm component entirely from the system, achieving retractor stabilization through the flexible strap's inherent properties and simple anchoring to the patient's body, thereby significantly reducing device complexity.
4Strength
If rigid retraction systems are used, then structural support is provided, but muscle retraction effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible straps can be positioned and adjusted to retract muscle tissue effectively at desired locations. The flexibility allows the straps to conform to muscle contours and apply distributed pressure that achieves better retraction without the structural constraints of rigid systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a non-rigid retractor for providing access to a surgical site, such as a patient's spine, during a surgical process. When used in spinal surgery, the non-rigid retractor allows a surgeon to operate on one or more spinal levels. The non-rigid retractor includes at least one flexible strap anchored at a first end to the spine or other internal body part at the surgical site. The body of the at least one flexible strap extends from a skin incision and is anchored at a second location external to the body to retract skin and muscle from the surgical site, allowing adequate visualization of the surgical site and providing access for implants and surgical instruments to pass through the retractor and into the surgical site.