Stylet Feeder Mechanism for Accurate Single-Step Pedicle Screw Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surgical tools for inserting pedicle screws lack efficiency and accuracy in single-step insertion, particularly in the design of tool adaptors that facilitate safe and precise implantation.

Innovation Solution

A stylet feeder with a base and extension, featuring a pawl assembly and cantilever arms, that securely attaches to surgical tools, allowing for efficient and accurate insertion of pedicle screws by ensuring the stylet is automatically retracted upon screw implantation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional surgical tools are used for pedicle screw insertion, then the surgical process can be completed, but the insertion efficiency and accuracy are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsertion efficiencyVSAvoidinsertion accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The stylet feeder merges multiple functions (stylet delivery, screw insertion guidance, and automatic stylet retraction) into a single integrated device that attaches to the surgical tool, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and improving both efficiency and accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stylet is pre-loaded into the stylet feeder before the surgical procedure begins, and the feeder is pre-attached to the surgical tool, allowing for immediate and accurate screw insertion without delays for manual stylet handling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If manual stylet removal is used, then the stylet can be removed, but the surgical process requires additional steps and time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestylet removal simplicityVSAvoidsurgical time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The stylet feeder automatically performs the stylet retraction function without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded mechanism self-activates upon screw implantation to retract the stylet, saving surgical time and simplifying the operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of manually removing the stylet after insertion, the system inverts the process by having the stylet automatically retract itself through the cannulated structure upon screw implantation, reversing the traditional manual removal approach

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS12508056B2Stylet feeder for surgical tool

Publication Date: 2025.12.30 VB SPINE US OPCO LLC

AI summary

A stylet feeder for connection to a surgical tool includes a base for attaching to a surgical tool, the base having a platform and a skirt extending distally from the platform. The stylet feeder also includes an extension protruding proximally from the platform of the base, the extension having a proximal end housing a pawl, the pawl having a distal end with a threaded portion. The base and the extension define a passage extending in a proximal-distal direction such that the stylet feeder is cannulated for accepting a stylet therethrough.