Universal Joint Implant Holder for Surgical Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior surgical instruments for implanting between vertebrae are complex, often require multiple components for pivoting and fixing, and cannot accommodate standard cage implants without reducing graft space.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument system featuring a universal joint that allows for both pivoting and rotating of an implant holder using a single drive member, enabling the implant to be loosened, moved to a desired position, and then securely locked in place, using a threaded projection that can be secured and driven before, during, and after pivoting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art devices use multiple separate components for pivoting and fixing the implant, then the implant can be adjusted and secured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (pivoting mechanism and fixing mechanism) into a single integrated implant holder assembly. The universal joint and threaded projection are integrated into one structure that performs both pivoting and fixing functions, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant holder is designed as a universal device that can accommodate standard cage implants and perform multiple functions (pivoting, rotating, and fixing) using a single assembly. The universal joint enables the holder to adapt to different implant positions while the integrated threaded projection provides secure fixation, making the device versatile and reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
2Reliability
If custom fit cages are used with attaching joints, then the implant can be secured to the holder, but the graft space is reduced or interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the universal joint with threaded projection) that connects the implant to the holder without requiring attaching joints on the implant itself. The threaded projection extends from the holder to engage with the implant, providing secure fixation while keeping the implant's internal structure intact and preserving the graft space within the cage.
3Device complexity
If a single drive member is used for both pivoting and locking, then the device is simplified, but the functional requirements become more demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The single drive member (threaded projection) is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables pivoting of the implant holder through its threaded engagement and provides locking capability through its fixed position. The universal joint integrated with the drive member allows the single component to accommodate both rotational movement and fixed positioning, meeting the demanding functional requirements with a simplified structure.
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
Simplifies the surgical process by reducing the number of components needed, allowing for easy adjustment and secure fixation of implants, while enabling the use of standard cage implants without interfering with graft space.
Implementation Method 1
a universal joint coupling the implant holder and the elongated member, and the universal joint being situated between the grip and the implant holder, the universal joint being adapted to permit a user to rotatably drive the implant holder when the implant holder is in a pivoted position
Implementation Method 2
an implant holder having a securing member that extends through the second end and that is adapted to receive and hold the implant
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument for inserting an implant is shown. The instrument has a housing having a first end and a second end, a rotatable drive member having an elongated member comprising a grip that is associated with the first end, an implant holder having a securing member that extends through the second end and that is adapted to receive and hold the implant. A universal joint couples the implant holder and the elongated member and is adapted to permit a user to rotatably drive the implant holder when the implant holder is in a pivoted position.