Spinal Rod Inserter Vertical Insertion Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rod holders for spinal implant surgeries require large incisions to insert spinal rods, as they can only insert rods from a horizontal position, limiting the ability to use smaller incisions while still accommodating the rod.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a longitudinal member and a holder featuring prong tips, gripping arms, and a pivot mechanism that allows the rod to be inserted vertically and rotated into a horizontal position within a smaller incision, enabling secure gripping and insertion through minimal access incisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional rod holder is used to insert a spinal rod from a horizontal position, then the rod can be securely held and inserted, but a large incision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The rod holder enables insertion from a vertical dimension through a small incision, then rotates the rod into its final horizontal position within the wound. This dimensional transition allows minimal access surgery by changing the insertion trajectory from horizontal (requiring large incision) to vertical (allowing small incision), then orienting the rod horizontally in situ.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod holder incorporates a rotatable mechanism that allows the held rod to be dynamically reoriented from a vertical insertion position to a horizontal final position. This dynamic capability enables the rod to be inserted vertically through a small incision and then rotated into its intended horizontal orientation within the spinal construct.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the incision size is reduced for minimally invasive surgery, then patient trauma is reduced, but the ability to accommodate and insert the spinal rod is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the insertion dimension from horizontal to vertical, the rod holder allows the rod to pass through a small incision that would be insufficient for horizontal insertion. The vertical trajectory bypasses the incision size limitation, and subsequent rotation within the wound achieves the final horizontal positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod is preliminarily positioned vertically within the rod holder through the small incision before being rotated into its final horizontal position. This preliminary vertical insertion action enables the rod to pass through the restricted incision opening, after which it is oriented correctly within the spinal construct.
Data Source
AI summary
A rod inserter and method of inserting a rod into a vertebral body, wherein the rod inserter holds a rod in a vertical or semi-vertical position from one end and allows the rod to be inserted and then rotated into its final horizontal position inside a wound. The device comprises a longitudinal member comprising holes located at distal ends of the longitudinal member; and a holder comprising a tip end comprising a first and second portion any of which comprise a prong tip. The holder also includes a handle end located distally away from the tip end, wherein the handle end comprises a first gripping arm and a second gripping arm; and an engaging member comprising tooth-like features connecting the first gripping arm to the second gripping arm, wherein the tooth-like features engage the second gripping arm, and wherein the prong tip fits into a hole of the longitudinal member.