Sensor-Integrated Surgical Handle for Precise Instrument Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments lack real-time feedback for precise angular orientation and trajectory during procedures, leading to potential misalignment and complications, particularly in spinal stabilization surgeries and biopsies.
Innovation Solution
A system with measurement sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, integrated into surgical instruments like awls and Jamshidi needles, providing real-time feedback through a controller for accurate alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional surgical instruments without sensors are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) are integrated within the handle of the surgical instrument, nesting the sensing system inside the existing instrument structure. This allows real-time angular orientation measurement without significantly increasing the external dimensions or complexity of the instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical alignment methods (visual estimation, physical guides) are replaced with electronic sensors that measure angular orientation in three-dimensional space. The accelerometers and gyroscopes provide digital measurement data that substitutes for mechanical alignment aids, improving precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If real-time feedback systems are added to surgical instruments, then the alignment accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback by continuously measuring the angular orientation of the instrument handle using accelerometers and gyroscopes, then providing this information to the surgeon during the procedure. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of instrument alignment to achieve greater precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle design integrates multiple functions: it serves as the gripping structure for the surgeon, the mounting platform for sensors, and the reference frame for angular measurement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate alignment devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If measurement sensors are integrated into the instrument handle, then the orientation measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors are strategically positioned within the handle structure at locations that minimize interference with the surgeon's grip and manipulation. The handle maintains its ergonomic design characteristics in the gripping zones while incorporating sensor mounting features in less critical areas, preserving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed with segmented or modular features that separate the gripping surfaces from the sensor mounting areas. This segmentation allows the surgeon to grip the handle in regions optimized for hand contact while sensors are positioned in dedicated zones, minimizing the trade-off between measurement precision and operational ease.
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
Ensures precise alignment of surgical instruments, reducing misalignment and associated health risks by offering real-time orientation and trajectory data to surgeons.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one measurement sensor may include at least one accelerometer
Implementation Method 2
the at least one measurement sensor may include at least one gyroscope
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument handle for use with a system to measure and display the orientation of a handheld instrument is disclosed.