Visual K-Wire Guide for Freehand Trajectory Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing k-wire insertion methods require multiple insertions, causing time inefficiency, frustration, and micro-injuries during surgeries, and most guides require physical attachment, restricting freehand methods.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a wire driver with a chuck and a guide wire that is laterally offset and parallel to the surgical k-wire, allowing visualization of the k-wire's trajectory in multiple planes using a visual guide with removable or permanently attached guide wires, enabling freehand insertion without physical attachment to the bone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple k-wire insertions are performed to achieve proper positioning, then the desired position is eventually achieved, but time is lost and micro-injuries occur to the bone
Solution Approach 1:
The guide wire is pre-positioned in the desired trajectory before the surgical k-wire insertion, providing a visual reference that guides the first insertion attempt. This preliminary positioning action enables the surgeon to align the k-wire correctly on the first try, eliminating the need for multiple retry insertions and reducing surgical time while maintaining positioning accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If multiple k-wire insertions are performed to achieve proper positioning, then the desired position is eventually achieved, but micro-injuries occur to the bone
Solution Approach 1:
The guide wire is pre-positioned in the desired trajectory before the surgical k-wire insertion, providing a visual reference that guides the first insertion attempt. This preliminary positioning action enables the surgeon to align the k-wire correctly on the first try, eliminating the need for multiple retry insertions and reducing bone micro-injuries while maintaining positioning accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If physical attachment guides are used for k-wire insertion, then guidance is provided, but freehand insertion methods are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The guide wire serves as an intermediary element that provides visual guidance without requiring physical attachment to the bone or surgical site. The fluoroscopically visible guide wire acts as a mediator between the surgeon's freehand insertion technique and the desired trajectory, allowing the surgeon to maintain manual dexterity and adaptability while receiving precise trajectory guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed subject matter relates to a visual guide for aiding the surgeon in the insertion of a k-wire. The guide including a ring for receiving a guide wire, the guide wire extending from the ring parallel to the center axis of the ring; and, a ring attachment mechanism configured to attach the visual guide to a wire driver. The guide wires representing the trajectory of the k-wire in two orthogonal planes thus allowing the surgeon to free hand the insertion by visually referencing the guide wires and the actual trajectory of the k-wire within the bone.