Universal Adaptor Handle for Surgical Retractor Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical retraction systems face challenges in securely attaching different types of surgical retractors to a retraction frame without causing them to shift during procedures, as traditional methods like using screws or bands can be restrictive and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a universal adaptor handle with adjustable features, including an extension arm, hinge, swivel clamp, and stop, allows for secure and flexible attachment of various retractor types to a surgical retraction system frame, enabling easy adjustment and prevention of retractor movement during surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional screws or bands are used to attach retractors to the retraction frame, then the attachment method is simple, but the retractors may shift during procedures and the system lacks versatility for different retractor types
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor handle is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of surgical retractors. The handle includes a receiver portion that can interface with different retractor configurations (e.g., lever-style retractors, retractors with transverse slots, or longitudinal slots), allowing a single attachment mechanism to serve multiple retractor types without requiring different attachment devices for each retractor variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor handle serves as an intermediary component between the retraction frame and the various retractor types. Rather than directly attaching different retractor types to the frame using different methods, the adaptor handle acts as a universal intermediary that standardizes the connection interface, simplifying the overall system while improving versatility.
2Reliability
If adjustable adaptor handles are used to secure retractors, then the retractors remain stable during procedures, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor handle incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow dynamic positioning and securing of the retractor. The handle can be adjusted to accommodate different retractor sizes and configurations, and once positioned, it provides stable fixation. This dynamic adjustability ensures reliable attachment while adapting to various surgical needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal adaptor handle is introduced to accommodate different retractor types, then versatility improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor handle is pre-configured with adjustment mechanisms that are designed to be intuitively operated. The handle includes pre-positioned adjustment features that allow the surgeon to quickly adapt the handle to different retractor types without requiring complex setup or multiple steps, maintaining ease of operation despite the enhanced versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical retraction system includes a frame and a universal joint coupled to the frame. A handle adaptor secures a surgical retractor to the frame via the universal joint. The handle adaptor includes an extension arm, a hinge, and a clamp. The extension arm comprises an elongated member having a proximal end and a distal end. The elongated member is secured to the frame via the universal joint. The hinge is attached to the distal end of the extension arm. The clamp is attached to the hinge and is configured to receive and retain a handle of a surgical retractor.