Radiolucent Disposable Retactor with Self-Retaining Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional metal retractors used in surgery are radiopaque, limiting X-ray imaging during procedures, and require manual handling, increasing surgical costs and crowding in the operating room.
Innovation Solution
A disposable, electrically insulating, non-magnetic, and radiotransparent retractor device made from medical-grade thermoplastic resin with a wishbone shape and spring-loaded legs that can be locked in place, allowing for improved visibility and reduced manpower requirements during surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal retractors are used, then the retractor provides sufficient strength and reusability, but it becomes radiopaque and blocks X-ray imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable retractor made from radiolucent material (such as medical-grade plastic or polymer) that can be discarded after a single use. This eliminates the radiopacity problem inherent in metal retractors while providing sufficient strength for the procedure. The disposable nature accepts the trade-off of reduced reusability to achieve clear X-ray imaging throughout the surgical procedure.
2Ease of operation
If manual holding of retractors is required, then the retractor can be precisely positioned, but it increases surgical costs and crowding in the operating room
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor incorporates a self-retaining mechanism with spring-loaded arms that automatically maintain positioning pressure on the tissue. Once inserted and positioned by the surgeon, the spring mechanism sustains the retraction force without requiring continuous manual adjustment or holding, thereby reducing the need for additional surgical staff and minimizing operating room crowding while preserving positioning precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surgical tools are used during the operation, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but it obstructs real-time X-ray imaging guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor is constructed from radiolucent materials (such as medical-grade polymers or plastics) that have different radiographic properties compared to traditional metal instruments. This material parameter change allows X-rays to pass through the retractor with minimal obstruction, enabling real-time imaging guidance to proceed effectively even when the retractor is in place, thus maintaining surgical versatility without compromising imaging quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable device for tissue retraction, including first and second elongated curved members, each having respective proximal and distal ends, a hinge pivotably connecting first and second elongated curved members, wherein first and second curved members curve away from one another, a first blade extending from the distal end of the first elongated curved member, and a second blade extending from the distal end of the second elongated curved member. The device further includes a first latching portion extending from the proximal end of the first elongated curved member, a second latching portion extending from the proximal end of the second elongated curved member, and a third bladed elongated member lockingly engageable to the hinge. The first and second latching portions are lockingly engageable. The retractor is made of a generally electrically insulating nonmagnetic radiolucent material.