Minimally Invasive Working Channel Proximal Securement

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques face challenges in securing and maneuvering working channels to ensure safe access and optimal tissue exposure, particularly in limiting lateral and axial movements while maintaining stability during procedures like disc removal and implant insertion.

Innovation Solution

A minimally-invasive surgical access system comprising a tube with a sliding tab and annular frame, allowing for controlled lateral and cranial-caudal motion, and featuring spherical elements and caps for secure fixation and restricted motion, anchored to the operating table to prevent axial displacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the proximal end portion of the working channel is fully fixed to ensure stability, then safety and stability are improved, but the ability to adjust angle and access different tissue areas is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of working channelVSAvoidability to change working angle

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The proximal end portion of the working channel is designed with dynamic fixation capabilities, allowing it to transition between fixed and movable states. The fixation member can be adjusted to provide stable anchoring when needed while permitting angular adjustment to access different tissue areas, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the proximal end portion is allowed to move laterally to improve access, then versatility is improved, but uncontrolled movement may compromise safety

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to different tissue areasVSAvoidsafety barrier function

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system controls lateral movement by changing the parameter of movement restriction from complete fixation to controlled movement within defined limits. The fixation member and annular frame work together to permit necessary lateral adjustment for tissue access while maintaining safety barriers, balancing versatility and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the working channel is fully anchored at both ends to prevent movement, then stability is improved, but the ability to maneuver during surgery is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition stabilityVSAvoidmaneuverability during surgery

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The working channel system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the distal end portion is anchored for stability, while the proximal end portion maintains controlled mobility for maneuvering. This segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between position stability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10786330B2Proximal-end securement of a minimally invasive working channel

Publication Date: 2020.09.29 MEDOS INT SARL

AI summary

The present invention is directed at minimally invasive systems in which the proximal end portion of the working channel has either zero or a limited range of movement in the lateral direction. A first embodiment has a slidable collar attached to a pair of flanges, wherein movement of the collar is bounded by an annular frame. A second embodiment has a substantially spherical element attached to the tube. A third embodiment has a plurality of caps. A fourth embodiment is adapted for a larger working channel.