Spinal Implant Operating Instrument with Rotating Screw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices lack the capability to precisely control the expansion of spinal implants during surgery, risking improper placement and increased medical risks due to uncontrolled expansion arm protrusion.
Innovation Solution
An operating instrument comprising an extension assembly with a central rod and an operating handle, featuring a rotating element and retracting element, allows for precise adjustment of the spinal implant's expansion by rotating the handle to move the central rod, enabling controlled expansion and retraction of the implant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the second part is pushed to expand the spinal implant, then the expansion degree increases, but the risk of expansion arm penetration and improper placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through depth markers visible through the transparent outer sleeve and a retracting element that provides tactile feedback. The depth markers indicate the pushing distance of the second part, allowing the surgeon to monitor expansion degree in real-time. The retracting element can be engaged with the central rod to prevent over-pushing, providing mechanical feedback that stops the expansion at a safe limit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct manual pushing with a controlled mechanical system consisting of the central rod, outer sleeve, and operating handle. This mechanical substitution allows for precise control of the second part's movement through rotational motion of the handle, which translates to linear motion of the central rod. The system converts uncontrolled manual force into controlled, measurable displacement.
2Ease of operation
If manual pushing is used to adjust the spinal implant position, then the operation is simple, but the positioning precision and expansion control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical system between the surgeon's hand and the spinal implant. The operating handle, central rod, and outer sleeve act as intermediaries that translate simple rotational motion into precise linear displacement. The surgeon rotates the handle rather than directly pushing the implant, and this intermediate mechanism ensures accurate control of the second part's movement distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts linear pushing motion into rotational motion for easier operation. Instead of requiring the surgeon to push the second part along a straight line with precise force control, the system allows rotation of the handle, which is more natural and easier to control. The rotational motion is then converted back to linear motion through the central rod mechanism.
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 precise control over the expansion of spinal implants, reducing the risk of improper placement and allowing for better adjustment of the expansion degree, thereby improving surgical outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The fixing element has an outer thread. The rotating element has an inner thread, wherein the rotating element is sleeved on the outside of the fixing element, and the inner thread and the outer thread correspond to each other. The rotating element is rotated so as to cause the pushing element to move along the long axis of the central rod
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses an operating instrument for a spinal implant. The operating instrument includes an extension assembly, a central rod, and an operating handle. The extension assembly includes an outer sleeve, and one end of the outer sleeve is connected with a first part of the spinal implant. The central rod passes through the outer sleeve, and one end of the central rod connects to a second part of the spinal implant. The operating handle includes a fixing element, a rotating element, and a pushing element. The rotating element is sleeved on the outer side of the fixing element. The pushing element connects with the central rod, and the rotating element presses against the pushing element. The rotating element is rotated to cause the pushing element to drive the central rod to move the second part, thereby expanding the spinal implant.