Surgical Instrument Connector with Inductive Power and Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments lack efficient mechanisms for navigation and identification during procedures, which can lead to inaccuracies and increased complexity for surgeons.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rotatable instrument connected to a motorized handle with a connector that provides communication, power, and irrigation connections, including a tracking system to navigate the instrument within a subject's anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surgical instruments are equipped with navigation and identification systems, then procedural accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a separate console system that acts as an intermediary between the surgical instruments and the navigation system. The console receives signals from tracking elements on instruments, processes the data, and provides navigation information to the surgeon through displays. This mediator approach allows navigation functionality to be added without directly complicating the instrument structure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical tracking elements that create light-based copies or representations of the instrument positions and orientations. Instead of requiring complex internal sensors in each instrument, simple reflective markers are attached to instruments, and their positions are captured by external cameras. This copying approach simplifies the instrument design while maintaining navigation accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple instruments are connected to a single handle with motor, then versatility is improved, but connection reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the surgical system into separate modular components: a handle containing the motor, a detachable instrument portion, and a connection interface. This segmentation allows different instrument portions to be attached and detached from the same handle while maintaining reliable connections through standardized interfaces designed for secure engagement and disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple different instrument types on a single handle. The standardized mounting mechanism allows various surgical instruments with different functions to be interchangeably connected to the same motorized handle, providing versatility while maintaining connection reliability through consistent interface design.
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 enables precise navigation and identification of surgical instruments, improving procedural accuracy and efficiency by providing real-time tracking and operational control.
Implementation Method 1
The connector may include a transmitter to transmit a field that may couple with a receiving antenna to provide inductive power to selected components.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an instrument assembly usable in a procedure. The instrument includes a connection for a working portion and to a tool handle. The assembly includes a method and system for interconnection and/or identification of the working portion and the handle. The instrument may also include various trackable features to allow for a navigated procedure.