Movable Drill Guide Handle for Spinal Fixation Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drill guides for spinal fixation often have handles in fixed positions, which can impede access and visibility for the user operating the drill, making it difficult to insert bone screws accurately and efficiently during orthopedic procedures.
Innovation Solution
A drill guide with a handle that is movably coupled to the drill guide lumen, allowing it to transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling the handle to change positions without obstructing access, and featuring a locking mechanism that includes a bushing with recesses and a collar, as well as a threaded lock, to facilitate precise positioning and unimpeded use of the drill.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is fixed in position on the drill guide, then the structure is simple and stable, but the access and visibility for the user operating the drill is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is made movable relative to the drill guide lumen through a coupling mechanism that allows the handle to transition between different positions. This dynamic configuration enables the handle to be moved out of the way during drill operation for improved access and visibility, while still providing stable positioning when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill guide is divided into separate components: the drill guide lumen and the handle, which are coupled but can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the handle to be positioned optimally for both stability and operational access without compromising the integrity of the drill guide lumen.
2Ease of operation
If the handle is made movable to improve access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a locking feature that allows the handle to be easily secured in desired positions. The locking mechanism uses simple geometric features (recesses and flanges) rather than complex mechanical systems, enabling straightforward engagement and disengagement of the handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the handle and drill guide lumen, providing both movement capability and locking function. The recesses in the bushing and corresponding flanges on the collar serve as intermediate elements that facilitate simple, reliable locking without requiring complex mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If the handle is positioned to provide stability, then the drilling accuracy is improved, but the access to the drill guide lumen is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The handle's movable coupling allows it to be positioned in different configurations: in a first position for stable drilling operations that ensure accuracy, and in a second position that clears the path for drill access to the lumen. The coupling mechanism maintains precise positioning when stable and provides unobstructed access when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A drill guide includes at least one drill guide lumen and a handle coupled to the at least one drill guide lumen. The drill guide lumen includes a proximal opening, a distal opening, and a longitudinal opening therebetween. The handle is movable between a first position relative to the drill guide lumen and a second position relative to the drill guide lumen.