Pedicle Screw Retractor Assemblies With Reversible Blade Mounts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pedicle-based retractors lack secure and minimally disruptive connections between the retractor blade and pedicle screw, necessitating improved mechanisms for attaching blades to screws already affixed to bone during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of retractor blade assemblies with specially designed connections, such as shims and screw mounts, that create a secure and reversible connection between the pedicle screw and retractor blade, allowing attachment post-implantation to minimize tissue disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pedicle-based retractor system is used to provide both retraction and distraction functions, then the versatility and efficiency of the surgical procedure is improved, but the complexity of the device and the difficulty of securing a reliable connection between blade and screw increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retractor blade and distractor functions into a single integrated pedicle-based retractor system. The blade assembly includes both retraction blades for soft tissue retraction and distraction mechanisms for disc space distraction, allowing one device to perform multiple surgical functions simultaneously, thereby improving versatility while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The pedicle-based retractor system is designed as a universal device that can perform both retraction and distraction functions. The system includes adjustable blades that can be configured for different retraction needs and distraction mechanisms that can accommodate various disc space requirements, making the device adaptable to different surgical scenarios and patient anatomies
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the retractor blade is attached to the pedicle screw after screw implantation to minimize tissue disruption, then the trauma to surrounding tissue is reduced, but the ease of operation and reliability of the connection decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates pre-configured attachment mechanisms on both the blade and screw that are designed to connect quickly after screw implantation. The blade includes pre-positioned attachment interfaces and the screw includes corresponding connection features, allowing for rapid assembly without requiring extensive tissue disruption or complex surgical maneuvers to establish the connection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary connection mechanism that facilitates attachment between the blade and screw with minimal tissue disruption. This intermediary structure acts as a bridge that allows the blade to be securely connected to the implanted screw through a controlled, minimally invasive process, reducing direct manipulation and trauma to surrounding soft tissues
3Reliability
If a secure connection between blade and pedicle screw is established, then the reliability of the retraction system is improved, but the tissue disruption and surgical trauma increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct modular components: the blade with its attachment interface, the intermediary connection mechanism, and the screw with its connection features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while minimizing overall tissue disruption. The modular design enables secure connection through controlled interfaces rather than requiring extensive anchoring that would increase surgical trauma
Data Source
AI summary
Retractor blade assemblies, retractors, kits, and methods of using the same. The retractor blade assembly may include a retractor blade, a pedicle screw, and a screw mount that connects the pedicle screw to the retractor blade. The retractor blade may have a proximal end configured to engage a retractor body and a distal end configured to retract soft tissue. The pedicle screw may have a head portion removably connected to the distal end of the retractor blade and a shaft portion configured to engage the pedicle of a vertebra. The screw mount couples the pedicle screw to the retractor blade.