Spinal Implant Surgical Instrument Axial Translation Ratchet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical systems for treating spinal disorders, such as scoliosis and degenerative disc disease, face challenges in efficiently delivering and securing implants like vertebral rods, which can be cumbersome and require multiple steps for adjustment and fixation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with a shaft and actuator system that allows for single-handed axial translation and engagement of implants, featuring capture members that can pinch and secure screw posts, and a ratchet mechanism for incremental adjustment, facilitating ergonomic and efficient implant placement and fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional surgical systems are used for implant delivery and fixation, then implants can be delivered to the surgical site, but the procedures are cumbersome and require multiple steps for adjustment and fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument merges multiple functions into a single device: the shaft combines delivery and adjustment capabilities, the actuator integrates translation and fixation mechanisms, and the capture members combine pinching and securing functions. This consolidation reduces procedural steps and improves implant delivery efficiency while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument is designed as a multi-functional device that can deliver implants, adjust their position axially, and secure them to vertebral bodies. The actuator system provides universal capability for both translation and fixation operations, eliminating the need for separate specialized tools and reducing overall procedural complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional implant fixation methods are used, then implants can be secured to vertebral bodies, but the process requires multiple steps and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The capture members are pre-positioned on the shaft and configured to automatically engage with the implant's external features during delivery. The actuator is pre-loaded with the implant, allowing immediate fixation upon reaching the surgical site without requiring separate assembly steps or additional time for securing.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation mechanism is self-contained within the surgical instrument, with the actuator and capture members automatically engaging and securing the implant to the vertebral body through the ratchet mechanism. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external fixation tools or multiple manual steps, reducing fixation time while maintaining reliable anchoring.
3Measurement precision
If precise adjustment of implants is performed manually, then implant position can be corrected, but the process is cumbersome and less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The manual adjustment process is replaced with a mechanical actuator system that provides controlled, precise axial translation of the implant. The ratchet mechanism on the actuator enables incremental, measured adjustments with high precision, while the ergonomic design allows easy operation through a single handle, combining precision with ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes a first member that defines a longitudinal axis. The first member extends between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is configured to engage an outer surface of a first implant. A second member includes an inner surface that defines a cavity. The cavity is configured for disposal of the first member. The second member is engageable with a second implant connected to the first implant. An actuator is connected to the first member in a configuration for moving the second member into engagement with the second implant such that the second implant axially translates along the outer surface of the first implant. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.