Orthopedic Depth Gauge with Rounded Tip for Screw Head Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing depth gauges in orthopedic surgery do not accurately account for the size and shape of fastener heads during screw placement, which can lead to complications such as tissue damage, pain, or improper screw positioning.
Innovation Solution
A depth gauge with a measuring feature, such as a rounded tip, is designed to simulate the fastener head for precise depth measurement, allowing surgeons to verify the position and prominence of the fastener head using fluoroscopy, and is adaptable to various fastener sizes through interchangeable tips or a single tip that fits multiple sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a simple probe member with graduated markings is used to measure opening depth, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision is insufficient because it does not account for the fastener head size and shape
Solution Approach 1:
The depth gauge incorporates a measuring feature (rounded tip or shaped indicator) that copies the shape and size of the fastener head. This allows the gauge to simulate the actual fastener placement and provide accurate depth measurements that account for the head prominence, resolving the contradiction by using a simple copied form rather than complex calculations or multiple components
Solution Approach 2:
The depth gauge is used before fastener insertion to pre-determine the appropriate fastener length. By measuring the depth with the fastener head shape already accounted for in the gauge design, the surgeon can select the correct fastener length in advance, avoiding the need for complex intraoperative adjustments
2Reliability
If the fastener length is selected without accounting for head prominence, then the selection process is quick and easy, but harmful factors increase due to potential tissue damage from improper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring feature on the depth gauge copies the fastener head geometry, allowing direct visual comparison and accurate determination of head prominence. This eliminates the need for complex calculations or experience-based estimates, making the safe selection process as simple as reading a measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The depth gauge provides immediate visual feedback about the relationship between opening depth and fastener head size. The surgeon can directly observe whether the measured depth is appropriate for the selected fastener, enabling real-time verification and adjustment to ensure safe placement
3Measurement precision
If traditional depth gauges without fastener head simulation are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision is insufficient for verifying fastener head position
Solution Approach 1:
The depth gauge incorporates a measuring feature that is a simplified copy or representation of the fastener head shape and size. This copied geometry allows the gauge to accurately simulate fastener placement and verify head position without requiring complex imaging equipment or multiple measurement tools
Solution Approach 2:
The depth gauge with shaped measuring feature serves multiple functions: it measures opening depth, simulates fastener head placement, verifies appropriate fastener length selection, and provides visual feedback for position verification. This multi-functionality achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Depth gauges used in orthopedic surgery. Specific embodiments relate to depth gauges with a measuring feature, such as a rounded tip, intended to simulate a screw head for depth measurement during surgery.