Segmented Guidewire with Threaded Coupling for Spinal Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal surgery guidewires are typically of fixed length, which can be inadequate for various surgical procedures, leading to difficulties in controlling and securing instrumentation, particularly in complex surgeries like sacroiliac joint fusion, where longer lengths are needed to prevent unintended guidewire travel and risk to neural or vascular structures.
Innovation Solution
A guidewire system comprising a first guidewire portion with a threaded male fastener for anchoring to a vertebra and a second guidewire portion with a threaded male coupler that can be threaded into the first portion to extend the guidewire length, allowing for adjustable length and improved control during surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a fixed-length guidewire is used, then the device structure is simple, but the guidewire length is insufficient for complex spinal surgeries
Solution Approach 1:
The guidewire is divided into multiple segments (first guidewire portion and second guidewire portion) that can be independently inserted and then connected together. Each portion has a threaded coupling mechanism that allows them to be joined securely, enabling the creation of a longer guidewire from shorter components without requiring a single long guidewire.
Solution Approach 2:
The guidewire system transitions from a static fixed-length design to a dynamic adjustable-length design. The threaded coupling mechanism allows the guidewire length to be modified during the surgical procedure based on the specific anatomical requirements and surgical needs.
2Reliability
If a longer guidewire is used, then control and security of instrumentation is improved, but the risk of unintended guidewire travel increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using segmented guidewire portions with connection mechanisms, the system provides controlled extendability. The guidewire can be lengthened only when and where needed through the threaded coupling, rather than using a single long guidewire that is inherently more prone to unintended movement throughout its entire length.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary connection point that secures the guidewire portions together. This connection mechanism provides a controlled interface that prevents unintended travel while allowing intentional length adjustment, serving as a mediator between the need for length and the need for stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a non-adjustable guidewire is used, then the device is simpler to manufacture, but the guidewire cannot be adapted to different surgical requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The guidewire is manufactured as separate standard-length portions that can be produced using conventional manufacturing processes. These standardized segments are then connected through threaded couplings, allowing adaptability without requiring complex custom manufacturing for each specific length requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded coupling mechanism serves multiple functions: it connects guidewire portions, allows length adjustment, and provides a secure connection. This universal connection mechanism can be used with different guidewire portions and configurations, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables precise placement and extension of guidewires, reducing the risk of unintended movement and improving surgical precision by allowing for adjustable length, thus enhancing safety and efficacy in spinal surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
A threaded male fastener at the distal end of the first guidewire body extends distally therefrom. The threaded male fastener is configured to fasten to a vertebra of a spine of a subject.
Implementation Method 2
A threaded male coupler at the distal end of the second guidewire body extends distally therefrom. The threaded male coupler is adapted to thread into the threaded female coupler of the first guidewire portion to fasten the second guidewire portion to the first guidewire portion
Data Source
AI summary
A guidewire system for spine surgeries includes a first guidewire portion having an elongate first guidewire body with a distal end and a proximal end. A threaded male fastener at the distal end of the first guidewire body is configured to fasten to a vertebra of a spine of a subject and a threaded female coupler at the proximal end of the first guidewire body defines a threaded opening. The guidewire system includes a second guidewire portion having an elongate second guidewire body with a distal end and a proximal end. A threaded male coupler at the distal end of the second guidewire body is configured to thread into the threaded female coupler of the first guidewire portion to fasten the second guidewire portion to the first guidewire portion to form an elongate guidewire.