Surgical Depth Instrument Digital Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current depth gauges used in bone implant fixation procedures are inaccurate and cumbersome, with reflective surfaces making markings difficult to read, requiring precise alignment and potentially causing loss of securement, and are not capable of providing digital measurements, leading to errors in screw length selection.
Innovation Solution
A medical device combining a bone probe with a depth gauge member that includes a pressure-sensitive strip and a sensor to generate electronic signals for digital depth measurement, allowing for accurate and quick determination of hole depth without the need for manual interpretation, and includes a tip member with a stepped profile for countersink compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional depth gauges with reflective surfaces and embossed markings are used, then the device structure is simple, but the markings become difficult to read under operating room lights and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical reading system (embossed markings on reflective surfaces) with an electronic sensing system. A pressure-sensitive strip with sensors detects the depth by measuring pressure distribution, and a display device shows the measurement digitally, eliminating readability issues under various lighting conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter representation from visual markings that depend on lighting conditions to electronic signals that are converted to digital display values. The pressure-sensitive strip converts physical depth into electrical signals, which are then displayed numerically, making the measurement independent of ambient light.
2Ease of operation
If traditional depth gauges requiring precise alignment are used, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to alignment requirements and potential loss of securement
Solution Approach 1:
The depth gauge device performs alignment and measurement automatically without requiring the surgeon to manually align components. The probe enters the hole and the pressure-sensitive strip automatically detects depth through pressure distribution, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment by the surgeon.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment operations with automatic sensing. Instead of requiring the surgeon to align markings visually, the electronic sensor system automatically detects depth through pressure measurement, converting a manual alignment task into an automatic sensing process.
3Productivity
If traditional depth gauges with manual reading are used, then the device structure is simple, but the productivity deteriorates due to time required for careful examination and potential re-measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual reading and interpretation of markings with an electronic display system. The sensor data is automatically processed and displayed digitally, eliminating the time required for careful visual examination and reducing the need for re-measurement due to reading errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides immediate digital feedback of the depth measurement through the display. This instant feedback allows the surgeon to verify the measurement immediately without waiting for manual reading, and the clarity of digital display reduces the likelihood of incorrect interpretation requiring re-measurement.
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
The device provides a more accurate and efficient measurement of hole depth, reducing the risk of screw misplacement and tissue damage by offering a digital readout and improved user experience, enabling precise selection of screw length and minimizing surgical complications.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to generate an electronic signal indicative of a depth of the hole, wherein the electronic signal varies in relation to distance traveled by the depth gauge cylinder relative to the pressure sensitive strip
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
Figure 3C~3D
AI summary
A device configured to provide a faster and more accurate measurement of depths of holes for placement of bone screws and fastener for bone implant fixation procedures. The device includes a combination of a bone probe for physical examination of a hole drilled in a bone and a depth gauge member for determining a depth of the hole and providing digital measurement of the depth via a display on the instrument and/or via a wireless exchange of measurement data to a remote computing device, such as a tablet or smartphone.