Integrated Pedicle Access Tool for Spinal Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In posterolateral spinal fusion procedures, the existing tools are cumbersome and prone to errors due to the sharp tips of k-wires and other instruments, which can cause unintended penetration of vertebrae, requiring surgeons to work slowly and cautiously.
Innovation Solution
A pedicle access tool that combines the functions of a targeting needle, cannula, and awl, featuring a cannula with a threaded section and a shoulder to prevent over-insertion, allowing for a continuous passage for guiding instruments and reducing the need for multiple tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate tools (targeting needle, cannula, awl, tap) are used for pedicle access, then the procedure can be performed with traditional methods, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and prone to errors due to the sharp tips of instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate tools (targeting needle, cannula, awl, and tap) into a single integrated pedicle access tool. The tool features a cannula body with a sharp tip for penetrating bone, threaded portions for tapping, and a hollow interior for guiding instruments. This integration eliminates the need to switch between multiple tools, reducing procedure time and minimizing errors associated with handling multiple sharp instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The pedicle access tool is designed with multi-functionality, serving as a targeting needle, cannula, awl, and tap all in one instrument. The cannula body can be used for initial bone penetration, the hollow interior guides subsequent instruments, and the threaded portions enable tapping operations. This universal design streamlines the surgical workflow while maintaining safety.
2Measurement precision
If a sharp-tipped k-wire is used to guide instruments, then precise bone penetration is achieved, but the sharp tip can cause unintended penetration through the vertebra if the wire kinks
Solution Approach 1:
The pedicle access tool incorporates a shoulder feature on the cannula body that acts as a depth stop. This shoulder prevents the tool from penetrating deeper than intended by providing mechanical resistance when the shoulder contacts the bone surface. This beforehand cushioning mechanism eliminates the risk of unintended vertebra penetration that occurs with sharp k-wires when they kink.
Solution Approach 2:
The cannula body serves as an intermediary between the external surgical field and the internal bone structure. The hollow cannula guides subsequent instruments (rasp, bone graft, bone screw) through its interior passage, providing a controlled pathway that prevents uncontrolled penetration. The cannula acts as a protective mediator that channels forces and instruments safely.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate tools are used for pedicle access, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity and number of surgical steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple specialized tools into a single integrated instrument. The pedicle access tool combines the functions of a targeting needle (sharp tip for bone penetration), cannula (hollow interior for guiding instruments), awl (sharp tip for creating pilot hole), and tap (threaded portions for threading). This consolidation reduces the number of surgical steps and tools required while maintaining the functional advantages of each component.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein provide tools and methods for spinal fusion procedures. One embodiment of a tool can be a pedicle access tool that performs the functions of targeting needle, cannula, tap and awl. The cannula of the tool can be used to guide various tools and bone graft or fusion promoting material to a surgical site for a spinal fusion procedure, such as a posterolateral procedure. In other embodiments, a k-wire can be used as the guide.