Pedicle Screw Detection Device for Spinal Stabilization Bar Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The insertion of stabilization bars into tulip heads of pedicle screws during spinal stabilization surgeries is challenging due to the inability to visually verify the correct positioning, leading to imprecise and time-consuming procedures, which increases anesthesia time and surgical costs.
Innovation Solution
A detection and indication/display device is developed that connects detachably with pedicle screws, utilizing a movable detection bar to indicate the presence or absence of the stabilization bar through changes in axial length, with visual or tactile markers to provide clear feedback on correct positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the stabilization bar is threaded through the entrance openings between elongated flanks or in the downtube of pedicle screws, then the vertebral bodies are fixed in the desired position, but the operating physician cannot see the entrance openings and has to blindly guess the position, leading to imprecise placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by providing real-time visual indication through a detection device. The device includes a detector that senses the presence of the stabilization bar in the tulip head and transmits this information to a display unit, allowing the operating physician to see whether the bar is correctly positioned without blind guessing. This closed-loop feedback system resolves the contradiction by making the previously invisible positioning information visible.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device acts as an intermediary between the stabilization bar placement process and the operating physician's perception. It includes components such as a detector (e.g., optical or magnetic sensor), signal processing unit, and display mechanism that mediates the information about bar positioning, converting the physical state of bar insertion into visible feedback for the surgeon.
2Productivity
If the operating physician tries to navigate the stabilization bar towards the pedicle screw based on visual estimation, then the procedure can be completed, but the process is extremely time-consuming and increases anesthesia time
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device provides immediate feedback on bar positioning, eliminating the need for time-consuming trial-and-error navigation. The physician can quickly determine whether the bar is correctly positioned in the tulip head, significantly reducing the time required for each insertion attempt and overall surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error method of bar insertion with an information-based system. Instead of relying on physical manipulation and visual estimation, the system uses detectors and displays to provide precise positioning information, substituting mechanical guessing with intelligent guidance.
3Measurement precision
If radiography is used to check the positioning of the stabilization bar, then some position information can be obtained, but the downtubes and screw heads block the beam path, preventing clear verification
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device serves as an intermediary detection system that bypasses the limitations of radiography. Instead of using X-rays that are blocked by metal components, the patent employs detectors (such as optical, magnetic, or capacitive sensors) that can sense the presence and position of the stabilization bar through the tissue and implant structures without being blocked by them.
Data Source
AI summary
A detection and indication device for the detection and indication of the presence or absence of a stabilization bar in the tulip head of a pedicle screw includes a housing. The housing is adjusted in such a way that it can be connected with elongated flanks of the pedicle screw or a downtube coupled to the pedicle screw in a detachable manner. A detection bar can be mounted axially movable in the housing. The relative positioning of the detection bar to the housing indicates a detection result. A system for spinal stabilization includes at least one pedicle screw with a tulip head and elongated flanks or a downtube coupled to the pedicle screw, at least one stabilization bar and a detection and display device.