Self-Retaining Shoulder Retractor for Glenoid Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current retractors used in total shoulder replacement surgery require multiple personnel to hold them in place and can limit exposure to the glenoid, making it challenging to access during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A spreadable retractor with hinged arms and retaining members designed to engage the coracoid process and resected humerus, allowing for adjustable angles and independent placement, reducing the need for multiple instruments and personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If shoe-horn type retractors are used to gain access to the glenoid, then the glenoid can be exposed, but multiple personnel are required to hold them in place and they may limit exposure to the wound site
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor is designed with a self-retaining mechanism that allows it to maintain its own position without requiring external support. The instrument includes a retaining member that engages with the coracoid process and a spreading mechanism that locks the arms in position, enabling the retractor to hold itself during surgery and eliminating the need for additional personnel to assist with positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor features movable and adjustable arms that can be positioned and locked at various angles. The spreading mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of the arm separation to accommodate different anatomical configurations, while the retaining member provides stable engagement with the coracoid process, combining flexibility with stability.
2Ease of operation
If shoe-horn type retractors are used to gain access to the glenoid, then the glenoid can be exposed, but the retractors may actually limit exposure to the wound site
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor is divided into separate functional components: first and second arms for spreading, a retaining member for coracoid engagement, and a linking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the arms providing wide separation capability and the retaining member providing stable anchorage, thereby maximizing wound site exposure without compromising instrument stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor utilizes the third dimension by engaging the coracoid process as an anchorage point above the wound site. This vertical engagement allows the arms to spread horizontally without being constrained by the wound edges, effectively increasing the exposure area by utilizing spatial dimensions outside the immediate surgical field.
3Ease of operation
If multiple instruments are used to achieve proper exposure, then adequate exposure can be obtained, but the number of instruments required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor combines multiple functions into a single integrated instrument: the first and second arms provide spreading capability, the retaining member provides stable anchorage to the coracoid process, and the linking mechanism connects the components. This consolidation of functions into one instrument eliminates the need for multiple separate retractors or assisting instruments, reducing instrument count while maintaining adequate exposure quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for retraction useable in joint arthroplasty. The method includes using a joint retractor having a first arm and a second arm. The first arm has a first portion and a second portion and the second arm having a first portion and a second portion. The retractor is inserted into a surgical opening of a patient's shoulder joint. The second portion of the first arm is placed against the coracoid process and the second portion of the second arm is placed against the resected humerus. The first portions of the first and second arms are hung over the resected tissue to allow exposure of the glenoid.