One-Handed Rod Persuader for Spinal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgeons face difficulty in using existing instruments to effectively and efficiently insert spinal rods into orthopedic devices like coupling elements, as these instruments often require two hands and lack a simple, one-handed operation with secure locking and easy removal features.
Innovation Solution
A rod persuader apparatus with a body, pusher member, and trigger mechanism that allows single-handed operation, featuring a ratchet system for step-wise advancement and locking, elastic fingers for secure grip, and a cannula for fastener insertion, enabling easy positioning and securing of spinal rods within orthopedic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing instruments are used to insert spinal rods into orthopedic devices, then the rod insertion function is achieved, but the operation requires two hands and lacks ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (gripping the orthopedic device, pushing the rod into position, and locking the rod) into a single integrated instrument called a rod persuader. The body grips the device while the pusher member advances the rod, and the trigger mechanism coordinates these actions, eliminating the need for separate instruments for each function and enabling one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod persuader is designed as a multi-functional instrument that can grip different orthopedic devices (hooks, screws, cages), push rods of various sizes, and provide locking capability. This universal design allows a single instrument to perform multiple tasks that previously required different specialized tools.
2Reliability
If existing instruments are used to insert spinal rods, then rod positioning is achieved, but the instruments lack secure locking capability during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet system is pre-configured in the rod persuader to engage automatically during the rod insertion process. As the pusher member advances the rod, the ratchet teeth engage with the corresponding structure on the orthopedic device, providing progressive locking at predetermined positions without requiring additional manual intervention or complex control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If existing instruments are used for rod insertion, then the insertion function is performed, but the instruments are difficult to remove after positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The rod persuader employs dynamic gripping elements (fingers or clamps) that can transition between a locked gripping state during insertion and a released state for removal. The trigger mechanism controls this transition, allowing the instrument to maintain strong grip on the orthopedic device during rod positioning, then easily release and be removed after the procedure is complete.
4Measurement precision
If existing instruments are used to insert spinal rods, then rod positioning is achieved, but alignment precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The rod persuader acts as an intermediary tool that provides precise alignment between the spinal rod and the orthopedic device receiving structure. The instrument's body and pusher member are designed with aligned reference surfaces and guide features that ensure accurate positioning, transferring the alignment requirement from a complex active alignment mechanism to a passively precise mechanical interface.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for persuading an orthopedic rod into position in an orthopedic device such as an implant or coupling element is disclosed. The apparatus includes a body, a pusher member and a trigger slidingly coupling the pusher member to the body. The pusher member includes a slide and sleeve attached to the slide. The sleeve includes at least one pusher bar. A ratchet controls the translation of the pusher member along the body to urge the rod into position in the orthopedic device. The pusher member and body define a cannula so that a fastener may be inserted once the rod is in position. The apparatus is operable via a single hand. In addition, a method of urging an orthopedic rod into a recess of an orthopedic device using the rod persuader is provided.