Surgical Instrument Angular Orientation Feedback System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization surgeries face challenges in accurately aligning pedicle screws due to limited real-time feedback from imaging systems, which can lead to misalignment and subsequent health complications, and existing methods rely heavily on surgeon experience, which may vary.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising measurement sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, integrated with surgical instruments to provide real-time feedback on the angular orientation and trajectory of instruments like awls and pedicle screws, using a controller to process data and guide the surgeon for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If imaging instrumentation (fluoroscopic imaging systems) is used to provide images of the patient's spine, then the placement of pilot holes can be assisted, but the real time information provided is limited and radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by integrating measurement sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) directly into the surgical instrument to provide real-time angular orientation feedback to the surgeon. This continuous feedback loop enables real-time adjustment of the instrument angle without requiring complex external imaging systems, thereby improving measurement precision while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses measurement sensors as intermediary devices between the surgical instrument and the surgeon's decision-making process. These sensors act as mediators that convert physical angular orientation into measurable data, providing real-time information without requiring the complex imaging infrastructure traditionally needed for surgical guidance.
2Reliability
If surgeon experience is relied upon for proper placement of pilot holes, then no additional equipment is needed, but the experience level of each surgeon may vary and may not be adequate in many cases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by equipping the surgical instrument with integrated measurement sensors that automatically measure and report angular orientation. The instrument essentially serves itself by providing its own alignment information, eliminating the need for surgeons to rely solely on their experience and reducing variability in placement accuracy across different practitioners.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement sensors provide real-time feedback on the instrument's angular orientation directly to the surgeon during the procedure. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent and reliable placement accuracy by objectively measuring the actual angle being applied, regardless of the surgeon's experience level, while adding minimal equipment complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If measurement sensors are integrated with surgical instruments to provide real-time feedback, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the measurement sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) directly into the surgical instrument itself, combining the measurement function with the surgical function in a single unified device. This integration improves angular alignment precision through direct measurement while minimizing the increase in device complexity by avoiding separate external measurement systems.
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 system significantly reduces the likelihood of misalignment, enhancing surgical precision and minimizing complications by providing accurate, real-time positional and trajectory data for proper instrument placement.
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
A system to measure and display the orientation of a handheld instrument is disclosed.