Surgical Retractor With Multi-Axis Blade Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical retractors face difficulties in insertion and adjustment due to friction with skin and tissue, making it challenging to achieve unobstructed access to surgical targets during minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A retractor device with a frame and blades that allow independent movement in multiple directions (lateral, angular, and rotational) via a support structure and locking mechanisms, along with tools like insertion, distractor, and pivot tools for easier positioning and adjustment within an incision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the retractor is inserted through an incision using blunt insertion or dilators, then the retractor can be introduced into the tissue, but friction between the retractor and skin/tissue makes insertion difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dilators that are inserted through the incision first to perform preliminary dilation of the tissue tract. The retractor is then inserted over the dilators, allowing the tissue to be gradually stretched and prepared for retractor insertion, thereby reducing friction and making insertion easier.
2Ease of operation
If the retractor blade is inserted into the incision, then the blade can be positioned to retract tissue, but tensile forces from skin and tissue make adjustment difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor blade is divided into multiple segments or sections that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the blade to be adjusted and repositioned more easily within the incision, reducing the impact of tensile forces from the surrounding tissue while maintaining effective retraction capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the retractor blade is moved within the incision to retract tissue, then access to the surgical target is improved, but the complexity of the support structure and locking mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates dynamic elements such as movable joints, articulation mechanisms, and locking systems that allow the blade to be positioned at various angles and depths. These dynamic features provide positioning flexibility while the locking mechanisms ensure stability when positioned, balancing adaptability with structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Retractor for insertion in an incision of a patient includes a frame defining a central opening and a reference plane, and at least one blade disposed within the central opening. The blade operatively coupled to the frame by a support structure for movement in a first direction generally laterally with the reference plane between an unretracted position and a retracted position, a second direction at an angle extending through and relative to the reference plane for adjustment of the blade depth, and a third direction rotationally relative to the reference plane. Additionally, the frame includes a track in mating relationship with the support structure for sliding movement therebetween in a defined relationship relative to the reference plane. Retractor assembly includes the retractor as previously described, in combination with an adjustment tool or an insertion tool.