Spinal Correction Rod Planning Tool for Scoliosis Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for spinal correction rod implantation in scoliosis surgery require surgeons to manually cut and bend rods based on numerical values, lacking a direct and precise tool for achieving the correct size and shape, leading to inefficiencies and potential mistakes.
Innovation Solution
A pair of surgery planning tools with the shape and size of spinal correction rods, adapted for each side of the spine, which can be used to guide the cutting and bending of rods, along with a manufacturing method involving 2D X-ray images and 3D reconstruction, reducing the need for navigation systems and minimizing radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If surgeons manually cut and bend rods based on numerical values from planning software, then the surgery can be performed with standard equipment, but the precision and efficiency of achieving the correct rod shape and size is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical 3D copy of the planned rod (including the planned curvature and length) that the surgeon can directly compare against the actual rod being shaped. This visual copy serves as a reference template, allowing the surgeon to see exactly what the final rod should look like, thereby improving precision without requiring complex navigation systems or sophisticated操作流程
Solution Approach 2:
The rod model is prepared in advance based on pre-operative planning software, showing the exact curvature and length needed. This preliminary preparation allows the surgeon to have a clear target before surgery begins, eliminating the need for multiple trial adjustments during surgery and improving both precision and efficiency
2Measurement precision
If surgeons use multiple radiographic images to check spinal correction, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but radiation exposure and surgery time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical visual representation of the planned rod configuration that can be directly compared with the implanted rod, eliminating the need for multiple post-operative radiographic checks. The surgeon can visually verify correctness against the pre-prepared model, thereby maintaining measurement precision while avoiding additional radiation exposure
Solution Approach 2:
The physical rod model acts as an intermediary between the digital planning software and the actual surgery. Instead of repeatedly using radiographic images to check alignment, the surgeon uses the visual model as a reference, reducing the need for harmful radiographic measurements while maintaining accuracy
3Manufacturing precision
If surgeons use complex navigation systems to guide rod implantation, then implantation accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple physical 3D model of the planned rod as a visual guide, which can be prepared in advance and used without complex navigation systems. This approach achieves high implantation precision through direct visual comparison, avoiding the need for expensive and complex intraoperative navigation equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The rod model is prepared beforehand based on pre-operative planning, allowing all necessary measurements and configurations to be determined before surgery. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex real-time navigation systems during surgery, as the surgeon already has a clear visual guide for the correct rod configuration
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 solution simplifies and streamlines the surgery process, enhancing precision and efficiency by providing a direct, visual guide for surgeons, reducing the need for multiple radiographic images and lowering costs, while ensuring accurate implantation without the need for complex navigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first step of making two 2D X-ray patient images
Implementation Method 2
a second step of making a patient specific 3D spinal reconstruction from said two 2D X-ray patient images
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a surgery planning tool, which is not a patient implant, comprising an elongated body including at least a portion having the shape and the size of a spinal correction rod.