Spinal Implant Insertion Tool With Asymmetric Drill Guide Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inserting implants into the spine are complex and prone to errors, such as improper orientation and instability of the implant, leading to potential failure. Additionally, the need for multiple instruments and sizes complicates the surgical process and increases sterilization requirements.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an insertion tool with asymmetrical engagement features and a drill guide that can be securely attached to the insertion tool, allowing for stable and precise placement of implants. The insertion tool includes a body with a distal portion and arms, and the drill guide has bores and an open-faced channel with engagement features that align with the insertion tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If symmetrical engagement features are used on the instrument and implant, then the implant can be engaged easily, but the implant may be engaged upside down leading to improper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing engagement features on the implant that are asymmetric about the implant's longitudinal axis. Specifically, the implant includes a first engagement feature and a second engagement feature that differ from each other, while the instrument includes corresponding first and second engagement features that are asymmetrically positioned. This asymmetric configuration ensures that the implant can only be properly engaged in the correct orientation, preventing upside-down placement while maintaining ease of engagement through the complementary asymmetric features.
2Device complexity
If rotational restraint is not incorporated into the engagement features, then the instrument structure is simpler, but the implant may move or become unstable relative to the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric engagement features inherently provide rotational restraint without requiring additional complex mechanisms. The asymmetric geometry of the engagement features on both the implant and instrument creates a mechanical interlock that prevents rotation, thereby stabilizing the implant relative to the instrument while maintaining relatively simple instrument structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple standalone instruments are used for implant placement and screw insertion, then each function can be performed with specialized tools, but the number of instruments increases and sterilization requirements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the implant placement function and screw insertion guidance function into a single integrated instrument. The instrument includes both the asymmetric engagement features for securing the implant and the drill guide structure with bores for screw insertion. This combination eliminates the need for separate standalone instruments for each function, reducing the total number of instruments required while maintaining the specialized functions needed for proper implant placement and screw insertion.
4Ease of operation
If the implant has limited orientation options during insertion, then the insertion process is simpler, but the possible orientations of the implant are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric engagement features provide orientation flexibility by allowing the implant to be engaged in specific predetermined orientations that are determined by the asymmetric geometry. The instrument's asymmetric features guide the implant into the correct orientation during insertion, ensuring proper placement while maintaining insertion simplicity through the self-aligning nature of the asymmetric engagement features.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a system that includes an insertion tool and a drill guide. The insertion tool includes a body with a distal portion and a distal end. The body has a first engagement feature extending longitudinally along the distal portion and two arms extending longitudinally from the distal end of the body. The drill guide includes two bores and an open faced channel therebetween. The open faced channel includes a second engagement feature slidably engageable with the first engagement feature on the body of the insertion tool. The two bores are adapted for the disposal of a fastener driver tool therethrough.