Offset Blade Spinal Cord Electrode Insertion Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools, such as the Penfield #3 dissector, are cumbersome and increase the risk of spinal cord injury during the insertion of paddle-type spinal cord stimulation electrodes due to excessive gripping force and difficulty in precise positioning, leading to potential neural damage.
Innovation Solution
A separable insertion tool with offset blade portions that resiliently clamp around the electrode, allowing for controlled gripping and advancement without bending, thereby reducing pressure on the spinal cord.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If straight or bayonet-type forceps are used to grip the electrode edges, then the electrode can be inserted and advanced, but excessive gripping force bends the electrode in a U-shape
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps jaws are designed with a specific local geometry featuring a curved surface that conforms to the electrode shape and a recess that receives the electrode edge. This localized structural adaptation allows the tool to grip the electrode securely without applying excessive bending force, resolving the contradiction between secure gripping and maintaining electrode shape.
2Stability of the object's composition
If excessive gripping force is applied to ensure electrode stability, then the electrode can be held securely, but the risk of spinal cord injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps jaws incorporate a curved surface parameter that matches the electrode's contour and a recess parameter that provides adequate reception space. This geometric parameter adjustment allows the tool to achieve secure electrode stability through proper contact distribution rather than excessive gripping force, thereby reducing spinal cord injury risk while maintaining electrode stability.
3Productivity
If conventional tools are used for electrode insertion, then the procedure can be performed, but the tools are cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps are designed as a segmented tool with articulated jaws that can independently adjust to the electrode geometry. This segmentation allows the tool to be more adaptable and easier to manipulate during the insertion procedure, improving both productivity and ease of operation compared to conventional rigid forceps.
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
The tool enables efficient and surgeon-friendly insertion and advancement of spinal cord stimulation electrodes, reducing the risk of spinal cord injury by minimizing excessive gripping force and maintaining electrode stability.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second legs are separable for placement around the electrode and resiliently return to a clamped position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an insertion tool for a spinal cord stimulation electrode. The insertion tool comprises a first leg and a second leg coupled to the first leg. The first and second legs are separable for placement around the electrode and resiliently return to a clamped position. Each of the first and second legs generally defines a respective longitudinal axis. Each of the first and second legs defines a blade portion offset from the respective longitudinal axis for clamping the electrode.