Spinal Retractor with Segmented Blades and Ratcheting Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Invasive surgical techniques for accessing spinal surgical sites can cause tissue necrosis and creep, necessitating the development of minimally invasive retractor devices for spinal surgery.
Innovation Solution
A retractor device featuring concentric rings and arms with blades that can be moved from a closed to an open position using an actuator and ratcheting mechanism, allowing for tissue retraction with minimal invasiveness, and featuring interchangeable blades and a locking mechanism for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If invasive surgical techniques are used to access spinal surgical sites, then access to the surgical site is achieved, but tissue necrosis and creep occur
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor device is divided into multiple independent blades that can be individually positioned and adjusted. Each blade can be independently manipulated to provide access to the surgical site while distributing pressure and minimizing tissue damage, thereby achieving surgical access without causing extensive tissue necrosis and creep
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor blades are designed to be dynamically adjustable during surgery. The blades can be moved between retracted and extended positions, and their depth and angle can be modified to accommodate different surgical needs. This dynamic capability allows for minimal initial tissue disruption while maintaining access throughout the procedure
2Reliability
If retractor blades are designed for secure positioning, then stable retraction is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor device incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically secures the blades in their desired positions without requiring additional locking components or complex operations. The mechanism uses the blade's own structure and the ratchet system to maintain position, achieving reliable secure positioning while minimizing added device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable blades are implemented, then adaptability to varying surgical needs is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blade attachment system is designed to be dynamically changeable during surgery. Blades can be quickly detached and replaced using a simple quick-release mechanism that requires minimal steps and no specialized tools. This dynamic interchangeability provides adaptability to varying surgical needs while keeping the attachment mechanism relatively simple
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to a retractor device for retracting soft tissue to provide access to a surgical site. The retractor device includes a plurality of blades movable from a first, substantially closed position to a second, substantially open position. Related methods of using the retractor device are also described.