Multi-function Orthopedic Instrument with Pivotable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic surgical tools are often used for single tasks and are not adaptable, leading to inefficiencies as surgeons need to search through multiple tools for the necessary instruments during procedures, even though not all tools are required for every patient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional instrument with pivotable arms and interchangeable components that can perform tasks such as distraction, compression, and rod bending, allowing for various surgical tasks with a single device, including features like adjustable holes for different implant sizes and a roughened surface for material packing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple single-function tools are provided to the surgeon, then all treatment options are available, but the surgeon must search through unnecessary tools during surgery and multiple tools increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-function tools (compressor, distractor, rod bender) into a single multi-functional instrument. The device can perform compression by bringing end portions together, distraction by moving end portions apart, and rod bending through a bending tool interface, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools while maintaining all treatment options
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate tools (compressor tool, distractor tool, rod bender) into one integrated instrument. The instrument includes features from each tool type, such as end portions for compression/distraction and a bending tool interface, combining their functions into a single device that reduces tool inventory and surgical workflow complexity
2Reliability
If all potentially necessary tools are provided to the surgeon, then complete treatment coverage is achieved, but the surgeon is forced to look among unnecessary tools during the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-functional instrument provides complete treatment coverage (compression, distraction, rod bending) through a single device design. The surgeon can perform all necessary tasks with one tool, eliminating the need to search through multiple unnecessary tools during surgery, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining treatment reliability
3Manufacturing precision
If single-function tools are used for each task, then each tool is optimized for its specific task, but the surgeon needs multiple tools increasing procedural time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines compression, distraction, and rod bending functions into one instrument, allowing the surgeon to perform multiple tasks without changing tools. This eliminates time spent searching for and switching between multiple single-function tools, reducing procedural time while maintaining task-specific functionality through the integrated design
Data Source
AI summary
Instrumentation is disclosed for use in orthopedic surgery that is capable of use as a compressor, a distractor, and a rod bender. Two pivoting arms have ends that can be used to compress implants, bones, or bone fragments together or to distract such items apart. In orthopedic surgery in which a rod, bar, plate, or other support is used, the instrument may be used to introduce bends into such supports so that the orthopedic structures (e.g. vertebrae) remain in a desired portion. Additional features are provided that permit verification of size of implantable items and packing of material in intervertebral spacers and similar devices.