Integrated Spinal Fixation Driver and Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal fusion surgeries require multiple instruments and long incisions, leading to increased trauma and prolonged recovery times, often necessitating the use of both hands by multiple surgeons.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument comprising a driver and an actuator, where the driver applies torque to a locking cap of a spinal fixation device, and the actuator is designed to fit over the spinal fixation rod, allowing for single-handed operation by a surgeon to lock the spinal fixation rod in place, reducing the need for multiple surgeons and minimizing incision size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional surgical techniques are used with multiple instruments, then the spinal fixation can be achieved, but the surgical procedure requires multiple surgeons and both hands to operate, increasing complexity and recovery time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate instruments (driver and actuator) into a single integrated surgical instrument. The driver applies torque to the locking cap while the actuator fits over the spinal fixation rod, allowing both functions to be performed by one instrument held in a single hand, eliminating the need for multiple surgeons and instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument performs multiple functions simultaneously: the driver component applies rotational torque to secure the locking cap, while the actuator component provides structural support and fits over the spinal fixation rod. This multi-functional design allows a single instrument to replace multiple specialized tools
2Ease of operation
If long incisions are made for spinal fusion surgery, then access to the surgical site is improved, but patient trauma increases and recovery time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument design allows nested components where the driver is received within the actuator body, with the actuator fitting over the spinal fixation rod. This nested configuration enables the instrument to access the surgical site through a minimally invasive approach while maintaining full functional capability
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
Enables minimally invasive spinal fusion procedures with reduced trauma and shorter recovery times, as a single surgeon can efficiently secure spinal fixation devices using the instrument, thereby improving surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The driver is configured to apply a torque to a locking cap of a spinal fixation device, so as to lock the locking cap against a spinal fixation rod
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and instruments are provided to allow access to a surgical site through a small incision while optimizing visualization of the patient anatomy. The instrumentation provide for the retraction of soft tissue, creation of a working envelope below the skin, and access to intervertebral discs and/or the surrounding bony structures for the purpose of performing various operative procedures including discectomy, laminectomy, and other spinal fixations. One set of disclosed instrumentation provides for the targeting of placement and trajectory of spinal fixation devices while reducing the number of instruments necessary needed to pass through the surgical incision. Another instrument disclosed herein allows for the compression of the intervertebral space through a very small incision. The instrument profile is minimized by using the same instrument that is used for tightening of the pedicle screws as one of the active components of the compression instrument.