Smart Sensor Patch for Real-Time Implant Expansion Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments for expanding interbody implants lack accurate real-time indication of expansion height and lordotic profile, relying on approximate fluoroscopic imaging or complex mechanical indicators, which are costly, difficult to sterilize, and complicate the surgical process.
Innovation Solution
A smart sensor patch with electronic components, including sensors, a processor, and a wireless communicator, affixed to an implant inserter, provides real-time information on implant expansion and lordotic angle, eliminating the need for mechanical indicators and simplifying sterilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluoroscopic imaging is used to indicate implant expansion height, then the surgeon can obtain approximate height measurements, but the measurements are only approximate and relative, not precise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical fluoroscopic imaging system with an electronic sensor system. Electronic sensors mounted on the implant inserter directly measure implant expansion height through electrical signals, providing precise digital measurements instead of approximate visual estimates from fluoroscopy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic sensors as an intermediary between the implant expansion process and the measurement indication. These sensors detect the actual expansion height and transmit this data to a display system, serving as a mediator that converts mechanical expansion into accurate digital information.
2Loss of information
If mechanical indicators are added to the implant inserter to show expansion height, then real-time height information is available, but the instruments become more complex, expensive, and difficult to sterilize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex mechanical indicator mechanisms with simpler electronic sensors. The electronic sensing system requires fewer moving parts, less mechanical complexity, and can be more easily integrated into the existing inserter structure while providing the same information function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement indication from mechanical position indicators to electronic sensor readings. This parameter change allows for more precise measurements and easier data transmission to display systems without requiring complex mechanical linkages or indicator mechanisms.
3Loss of information
If mechanical indicators are added to the implant inserter, then expansion information is provided, but sterilization becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical indicators that require sterilization of moving parts with electronic sensors that can be more easily sterilized or disposed of. Electronic components can withstand sterilization processes better than complex mechanical assemblies with precision moving parts.
4Measurement precision
If C-arms or imaging systems are brought into the surgical space for robotic and navigated workflows, then implant height can be imaged, but the space becomes cramped and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from external imaging equipment (C-arms) and integrates it directly into the implant inserter through electronic sensors. This eliminates the need for separate imaging systems in the surgical space, freeing up room for robotic and navigation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the implant inserter multi-functional by integrating electronic measurement capabilities directly into it. The inserter now serves both as the implant delivery device and as the measurement system, eliminating the need for separate imaging equipment.
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 smart sensor patch offers precise, real-time data on implant expansion and lordotic profile, reducing instrument complexity, cost, and sterilization challenges, while ensuring ease of use and compatibility with various implant sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless transmitter. The sensor patch may be affixed to an instrument, such as an implant inserter, to obtain and send information about the implant
Data Source
AI summary
Smart surgical instrument patches, instruments, systems, and methods. The smart surgical instrument patch may include a flexible substrate with electronic components electronically connected to one another. The electronic components may include one or more sensors, a processor, a power source, and a wireless communication unit. The patch may be affixed to an instrument, such as an inserter for installing an expandable implant. During operation of the instrument, the smart surgical instrument patch may provide real time information to the user, such as amount of implant expansion and lordosis profile.