Combined Spinal Implant Removal Tool with Threaded Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing implanted spinal devices require a two-step process with separate tools, making the procedure more complex and less safe, as spinal implants typically have a closed configuration for insertion and removal.
Innovation Solution
A combined surgical tool with a handle and shaft featuring a central bore with internal threads and radially extending tabs, allowing for the tool to engage and lock onto the implant, then rotate it into a closed configuration for safe removal without additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-step process with separate tools is used to remove the implant, then the implant can be prepared and removed, but the procedure becomes more complex and less safe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate tools (implant preparation tool and implant removal tool) into a single integrated tool. The tool includes a shaft with a distal end that can both prepare the implant for removal by engaging its features and then remove the implant by rotating it to closed configuration. This eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and reduces procedural complexity while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool is designed with multi-functionality to perform both implant preparation and implant removal functions. The shaft distal end includes features that can engage with the implant to prepare it, and then the same shaft can rotate the implant to closed configuration for removal. This universal design reduces the number of tools needed while ensuring a reliable two-step process is completed
2Productivity
If additional tools are required for the two-step removal process, then the implant can be removed, but the surgical procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the preparation and removal functions into a single tool, the patent eliminates the time required to exchange between multiple tools during the surgical procedure. The single tool can continuously perform both functions without interruption, thereby improving productivity and reducing surgical time
3Reliability
If separate tools are used for preparing and removing the implant, then the two-step process can be completed, but the risk of complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the preparation and removal operations into a single controlled action using one tool. This reduces the number of handoffs, tool changes, and potential errors associated with using multiple separate tools, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining the safety of the two-step process through the integrated design
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 tool simplifies the removal process by anchoring and locking onto the implant, ensuring safe and complete extraction, reducing the number of tools needed and enhancing procedural safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the internal threaded wall is configured to receive a threaded shaft of an implant to be removed
Data Source
AI summary
An implant removal tool for use in removing an expandable spinal implant device from a patient and a method of use. The tool includes a shaft having a distal end with a plurality of tabs and a central bore having a threaded section with an internal threaded wall. The plurality of tabs may include two curved tabs having blunt distal ends for cooperating with an implant. The threaded section is configured to receive a threaded shaft of an implant and lock the implant thereon for removal.