Sensorized Joint Retractor for Consistent Soft Tissue Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic implants, particularly for joints like knees and hips, face challenges in achieving a proper fit due to inconsistent measurement of soft tissue tension and laxity, leading to variable sizing and potential misalignment during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A force-indicating retractor device with strain gauges and pressure sensors is used to measure and standardize the application of forces between joint articular surfaces, providing data to a robotic surgical system for precise implant sizing and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual or z-retractor methods are used to apply varus/valgus stress, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the force applied is not standardized leading to inconsistent measurement of soft tissue tension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force application with a robotic system that uses sensors and computer control to apply and measure forces. The robotic system substitutes human-operated mechanical retractors with an automated system incorporating force sensors, actuators, and control algorithms to standardize force application during TKA procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through force sensors that continuously measure the applied forces and provide data to the control system. This feedback loop allows the system to monitor and adjust the forces applied to the knee joint, ensuring standardized and consistent measurement of soft tissue tension throughout the procedure.
2Manufacturing precision
If surgeon hand measurements and visual estimates are used for implant sizing, then the procedure is simple and quick, but the implant fit varies between patients and surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurements and calculations of implant sizing and positioning before the actual surgery. The robotic system uses preoperative imaging data and intraoperative force measurements to determine the optimal implant size and orientation, allowing surgeons to prepare implant selection in advance and reduce intraoperative decision-making time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital model or virtual representation of the patient's knee anatomy based on preoperative imaging and intraoperative measurements. This digital copy allows for virtual trial of different implant sizes and configurations, enabling precise implant selection before the actual implantation procedure.
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 device enables accurate quantification of soft tissue tension, enhancing the precision of implant fitting and reducing variability in surgical outcomes by standardizing the application of forces during joint procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The retractor device includes strain gauges and pressure sensors that measure and standardize the application of forces between joint articular surfaces
Implementation Method 2
the one or more pressure sensors are configured to measure the pressure forces that result when a user applies a force to the device at the handle
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for measuring a force applied to a joint during a surgical procedure are disclosed. The device includes an insertion tool, a handle, and one or more force indicators. The insertion tool includes an insertion end and a base end. The one or more force indicators may be attached to the insertion tool and the handle. The insertion end of the device may be inserted into a joint during a surgical procedure and used to apply a force to the joint and/or measure the force using the one or more force indicators when the force is applied.