Patient Reference Array Adapter for Low-Trauma Spinal Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive spinal surgery relies heavily on radiographic imaging and 3D navigation systems that require reference markers on the patient, causing additional trauma and necessitate expensive equipment, while lacking neurophysiologic information about nearby nerves.
Innovation Solution
A reference array and bone anchor assembly system with an adapter that allows for customizable directionality and secure attachment to bone anchors, enabling reduced reliance on radiographic imaging by using a fiducial array and a mechanism to lock the receiver assembly in place, facilitating navigation with neurophysiologic information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D navigation systems with reference markers fixed to the patient are used, then spatial information regarding target site and implants is provided, but additional trauma to patient anatomy occurs and expensive specialized equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter as an intermediary component that couples the reference array to the bone anchor assembly rather than directly fixing reference markers to the patient's spine. This mediator approach allows the reference array to be attached to the implanted bone anchor assembly, providing spatial information while avoiding additional trauma from direct spinal attachment. The adapter serves as the intermediate structure that bridges the navigation system and the implanted hardware.
2Ease of operation
If traditional open surgical techniques are used, then direct access to surgical target site is achieved, but large incisions with high tissue displacement and increased pain and morbidity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of open surgery (large incisions and direct physical access) with a navigation-based system that uses spatial tracking and imaging guidance. The reference array coupled to the bone anchor assembly enables precise localization and guidance of instruments through minimally invasive approaches, substituting direct mechanical access with guided indirect access that reduces tissue disruption.
3Measurement precision
If reference array is fixed directly to patient's spine, then navigation tracking is enabled, but additional trauma and anchoring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves multiple functions: it provides attachment points for the reference array, couples to the bone anchor assembly, and enables navigation tracking. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional component, the system avoids the complexity of separate anchoring mechanisms while maintaining position tracking accuracy. The adapter's engagement features with the bone anchor assembly eliminate the need for additional anchoring procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a reference array, a bone anchor, a receiver assembly coupled to the bone anchor, and an adapter axially locked with the receiver assembly. The adapter includes a proximal end coupled to the reference array and a distal end coupled to the receiver assembly.