Multi-Axis Surgical Retractor With Pivotable Blades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical retractor systems lack refined and controlled tissue displacement, leading to potential trauma and limited access during surgical procedures, particularly in spinal surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis retractor system with independently translatable arms and blades, featuring a slideable connection mechanism, pivotable blades, and adjustable shims to prevent tissue creep, allowing for precise tissue retraction and enhanced access to the surgical site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a retractor system is used to provide access to the surgical site, then the surgeon can insert surgical instruments and visualize the surgical site, but the tissue displacement may cause trauma to the tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor system is divided into multiple independent blades that can be individually adjusted and positioned. Each blade can be separately controlled to provide precise tissue displacement, minimizing unnecessary trauma while maintaining surgical access. The modular blade design allows selective retraction of specific tissue regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor system incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow dynamic adaptation to tissue characteristics and surgical needs. The blades can be positioned at different angles and depths, and the retractor frame can be adjusted to optimize tissue displacement paths, reducing trauma while maintaining effective retraction.
2Ease of operation
If multiple blades are used to retract tissue, then access to the surgical site is improved, but the complexity of the retractor system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor system employs a standardized frame structure that can accommodate multiple blades with universal mounting mechanisms. The same basic frame design can be used for different surgical applications by simply adjusting or reconfiguring the blades, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple retraction functions are combined into a single integrated retractor system with a common frame and control mechanism. The blades work together as a coordinated system rather than separate devices, simplifying the overall structure while providing comprehensive tissue retraction capability across multiple axes.
3Device complexity
If the retractor blades are fixed in position, then the system structure is simpler, but the ability to provide refined and controlled tissue displacement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor blades are designed with adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow precise control of blade position and angle. The dynamic adjustment capability enables refined tissue displacement control while using relatively simple mechanical components such as slots, pins, and springs, avoiding overly complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows modification of key parameters such as blade position, angle, and depth of insertion to optimize tissue displacement control. By enabling adjustment of these parameters, the system achieves precise control without requiring complex fixed structures, using instead simple adjustable mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical retractor for retracting body tissue in a therapeutic procedure includes two lateral arms each having a block with an aperture extending transverse to a longitudinal axis of the arm. The distal end of each arm pivotably supports a retractor blade. A transverse extension, forming a retractor core, extends through the aperture and slideabiy supports a lateral arm at each end. A central arm also pivotably supports a retractor blade, and has an extension on a proximal end that is insertable into an aperture within the core. The lateral and central arms are translatable in connection with the core. The retractor blades can be pivoted by rotating a tool engagement. A rack and pinion, controlled by a pawl, is used to translate the side and central arms.