Pedicle Screw Retractor With Universal Locking Shims
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractor systems for spinal surgery lack control and tactile feedback for surgeons, and are limited in their ability to be universally applied across different pedicle screw sizes, making them less effective for minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A universal pedicle screw-mounted retractor system featuring adjustable retractor blades and locking shims that can be securely attached to pedicle screws, allowing for controlled distraction and improved access to the surgical site, with features like an inverted connection post to reduce stress on screws and enhance visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing retractor systems are used, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but the surgeon loses tactile feedback and control over the retractor blades
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor system is divided into separate components: a retractor body with blades and a handle assembly. This segmentation allows the surgeon to independently control the handle while the blades remain positioned at the surgical site, providing tactile feedback through the handle's mechanical connection to the blades.
Solution Approach 2:
A ratchet mechanism serves as an intermediary between the surgeon's hand and the retractor blades. This mechanism transmits tactile feedback from the blades to the surgeon's hand while allowing unidirectional adjustment, enabling the surgeon to feel resistance and control blade position without direct mechanical coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing retractor systems are used, then retraction can be achieved, but the system is limited to specific screw sizes and lacks universal application
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor body is designed with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple pedicle screw sizes (e.g., 5.5mm, 6.0mm, 6.5mm). This universal design allows the same retractor system to be used across different surgical cases and patient anatomies while maintaining secure attachment through size-appropriate locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable parameters including blade width, blade depth, and attachment interface dimensions. These parameters can be modified or selected based on the specific pedicle screw size being used, enabling the retractor to adapt to different screw dimensions while maintaining reliable attachment and effective retraction.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional retractor designs are used, then basic retraction is possible, but access and visualization to the surgical site is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor blades are designed to extend in multiple dimensions from the pedicle screw entry point, creating a three-dimensional retraction zone. This multi-dimensional approach provides superior exposure of the surgical site compared to traditional linear retractors, allowing the surgeon to access and visualize the intervertebral disc space from multiple angles while maintaining minimal incision size.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor blades are nested within a protective sheath or housing that can be introduced through a minimal incision. This nested design allows the large retractor structure to pass through a small opening, reducing soft tissue trauma while providing extensive surgical access once deployed at the target site.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal pair of pedicle screw-mounted retractor blades and locking shims configured for mounting over and locking onto the tower or extended top threaded post of a pair of adjacent pedicle screws pre-positioned in adjacent vertebrae. Each cylindrical retractor blade body has a proximal flange with an inverted post extending distally, configured for attachment to a handle or arm of a ratcheting retractor. The L-shaped locking shim is removably positioned along a grooved slot within the retractor blade body and temporarily locked into place within the tulip portion of the pedicle screw using a set screw.