Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
DEVICE FOR DRIVING MULTIPLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS
2. APPLICANT:
Meril Corporation (I) Private Limited, an Indian company of the address Survey No. 135/139, Muktanand Marg, Bilakhia House, Pardi, Vapi, Valsad-396191 Gujarat, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:

 
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present disclosure relates to a medical device. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a device for driving multiple surgical instruments.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
Surgical instruments are essential tools used by surgeons and medical professionals to perform various surgical procedures with precision and efficacy. Certain surgical instruments, such as surgical drills, screwdrivers, reamers, saws, rasps, and bone mills, require torque for proper functioning. Different surgical instruments may require varying speeds, torque levels, and motion patterns based on the specific task being performed and the type of tissue or material being manipulated. So, traditionally, each surgical instrument has its own drive assembly designed to meet its unique operational requirements effectively. For instance, surgical drills and reamers have a drive assembly that facilitates rotational motion, which is essential for creating precise holes or enlarging existing ones in bone or dense tissue. On the other hand, surgical saws and rasps are equipped with drive assemblies that control oscillating, reciprocating, or sagittal motion.
The specificity of these drive assemblies ensures that each surgical instrument can perform its intended function with optimal efficiency and safety. However, this also means that a wide variety of drive assemblies are necessary to cover the range of surgical instruments used in different surgical procedures. Procurement of a variety of drive assemblies for different instruments can be expensive and requires extensive storage space for both the drive assemblies and their associated instruments on a surgical table. Additionally, each drive assembly must be thoroughly sterilized between uses, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming.
This increases operational complexities for the surgeons, especially when multiple instruments are required for a single surgery. The setup time can be prolonged. Further, ensuring that the correct drive assembly is available and properly configured for each instrument during the surgery necessitates careful coordination, adding to the complexity.
Further, since each drive assembly is tailored to the operational needs of its corresponding instrument, taking into account factors such as the required force, speed, and type of motion, surgeons must adjust and control these parameters according to the requirements of each surgical procedure by using specific drive assembly for specific instrument. This results in additional training requirements for the surgeon and increases chances of error.
Thus, there arises a need for a device that overcomes the problems associated with the conventional surgical instrument drivers.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Particular embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are mere examples of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. Well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure in unnecessary detail. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.
The present disclosure relates to a device for driving multiple surgical instruments. In an embodiment, the device includes a motor, a first gear, a second gear and a connector. The motor includes a shaft. The first gear is rotatably coupled to the shaft. In response to the rotation of the shaft, the first gear is configured to rotate in the same direction as that of the shaft. The second gear is rotatably coupled to the first gear. A rotational axis of the second gear is perpendicular to a rotational axis of the first gear. In response to the rotation of the first gear, the second gear is configured to rotate in an opposite direction as that of the first gear. The connector is rotatably coupled to the second gear. The connector is removably coupled to a surgical instrument. The connector is configured to provide torque to the surgical instrument.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the apportioned drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentality disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.
Fig. 1 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of a device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 2 depicts a gear assembly coupled to a motor 200 of the device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 3 illustrates an exemplary reamer 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4 illustrates an exemplary hip-cup reamer 104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary guidewire 106, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5a depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the device 10 showing an exemplary adaptor 107 for coupling the guidewire 106 with the device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 6 depicts an exemplary a guide assembly of the device 10, according an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7 illustrates a flowchart for a method 700 of operating the device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
Prior to describing the disclosure in detail, definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document will be defined: the terms "include" and "comprise", as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "coupled with" and "associated therewith", as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have a property of, or the like. Definitions of certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.
Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed method may be described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can encompass an order of operations other than the particular, sequential order disclosed. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Further, descriptions and disclosures provided in association with one particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment, and may be applied to any embodiment disclosed herein. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed system, method, and apparatus can be used in combination with other systems, methods, and apparatuses.
Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments. These features and advantages of the embodiments will become more fully apparent from the following description and apportioned claims, or may be learned by the practice of embodiments as set forth hereinafter.
The present disclosure relates to a device configured to accommodate and drive various surgical instruments. The device is designed such that appropriate surgical instruments can be easily coupled and de-coupled from the device as needed. For example, during a surgical procedure, a surgeon can couple a first surgical instrument, de-couple the first surgical instrument, couple a second surgical instrument and so on. Example surgical instruments that may be coupled to the device may include, but are not limited to, drillers, reamers, saws, and guidewires, etc.
Unlike traditional systems requiring separate drivers for each instrument, the proposed device is able to drive multiple surgical instruments. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple, specialized devices as seen in the conventional systems. Surgeons can swiftly switch between different surgical instruments without needing to change drivers, which leads to significantly reducing setup and intraoperative time. The ability to control multiple instruments with a single device streamlines the surgical workflow, making procedures more efficient.
The device allows for a precise control of torque, speed, RPM, and motion patterns, ensuring optimal performance for each surgical task. The device is equipped with sensors that continuously monitor parameters such as speed and torque, providing real-time feedback to a control unit. The control unit to automatically adjusts torque provided to a surgical instrument based upon the sensed parameters. Consequently, the device does not need any manual adjustments during surgery, thereby eliminating human errors and enhancing precision. The ergonomic design reduces surgeon fatigue and improves overall comfort during lengthy procedures. Surgeons can also customize settings to meet the specific requirements of the surgery.
Hospitals and surgical centers can lower procurement costs by investing in a single, versatile device rather than multiple specialized drivers. Fewer devices mean reduced maintenance and sterilization costs, as only one device needs to be cleaned and sterilized between procedures. With one device capable of handling multiple instruments, storage space requirements are also significantly reduced.
Using a single device for multiple surgical instruments can enhance reliability and reduce the likelihood of equipment malfunction due to fewer moving parts. The device provides consistent control and performance across different instruments that may lead to better surgical outcomes and reduced risk of errors.
Although, the device of the present disclosure is described with example of surgical instruments used for orthopedic surgeries, the teachings of the present disclosure can be extended to a device capable of driving instruments needed for other type of surgeries. The same is within the scope of the teachings of the present disclosure.
Now referring to the figures, Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a device 10 for driving multiple surgical instruments. The device 10 has a proximal end 10a, a distal end 10b, a top end 10c and a bottom end 10d. The device 10 includes an assembly of a plurality of components operationally coupled to each other. In an embodiment, the device 10 includes a connector 20, a gear assembly and a motor 200. The device 10 is capable of being coupled with a wide range of surgical instruments such as, reamer, hip-cup reamer, surgical drills, screw drivers, rasps, bone mills, etc.
The connector 20 is provided towards the top end 10c at the distal end 10b of the device 10. The connector 20 allows secure coupling of multiple surgical instruments with the device 10 as needed during a surgical procedure. According to an embodiment, the connector 20 is generally cylindrical, though the connector 20 may have any other suitable shape. The connector 20 may be removably coupled with a surgical instrument using any suitable technique such as, without limitation, snap fit, press-fit, friction-fit, etc. In an example implementation, the connector 20 is removably coupled with a surgical instrument using a snap-fit mechanism. Further, a coupling may be provided between the connector 20 and the surgical instrument so that the connector 20 is able to drive the surgical instrument. In an embodiment, the connector 20 includes a hole 22 provided at a distal end of the connector 20 and extending at least partially through the length of the connector 20. The hole 22 is configured to accommodate different surgical instruments as explained later. The snap-fit coupling mechanism allows rapid coupling and de-coupling of the surgical instruments with the device 10 during a surgical procedure and minimizes downtime between tool changes, thereby simplifying the process for the healthcare practitioners.
The connector 20 may be made of any suitable material, such as, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector 20 is made of stainless steel.
In an embodiment, the proximal end of the connector 20 is rotatably coupled to the second gear 120 of the gear assembly. The gear assembly provides torque to the connector 20. The connector 20 is configured to provide torque and a desired range of motion, such as, without limitation, rotational motion, reciprocating motion, or any motion in a predefined pattern, to the surgical instrument. The motor 200 drives the gear assembly. The motor 200 converts the electrical energy into rotational energy to drive the gear assembly.
Fig. 2 depicts an exemplary gear assembly and the motor 200 of the device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The gear assembly is coupled to the motor 200. The motor 200 of the device 10 receives electric power via a power connector 280. A suitable power supply (not shown) is electrically coupled to the power connector 280. In an embodiment, the power supply includes one or more DC batteries provided within the device 10. In another embodiment, the power supply may be an external DC power supply. In yet another embodiment, the power supply may be an external AC power supply. In this case, the device 10 may include a rectifier for converting the AC power to DC power for the motor 200. The power connector 280 is electrically coupled to the motor 200, e.g., one or more power terminals of the motor 200 are coupled to respective pins of the power connector 280 using connecting wires (not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the power connector 280 is a power socket. The motor 200 may be an AC motor or a DC motor. In an example implementation, the motor 200 is a DC motor. The motor 200 has a power rating depending upon the surgical instruments intended to be coupled to the device 10. The motor 200 is rotatable in clockwise and anticlockwise direction as desired. The motor 200 includes a shaft 210. The shaft 210 is rotatable in a first direction and a second direction. In an embodiment, the first direction is clockwise direction, and the second direction is anticlockwise direction.
The gear assembly is coupled to the shaft 210 and is configured to provide torque to a surgical instrument. The gear assembly may include bevel gears, spur gears, etc., coupled to each other. In an embodiment, the gear assembly is a bevel gear assembly and includes a first gear 110 and a second gear 120 operatively coupled to each other.
The first gear 110 includes a first shaft 110a and a plurality of first teeth 110b (or first teeth 110b) having a pre-defined profile, e.g., spiral, straight, helical, etc. In an example implementation, the first teeth 110b have a spiral profile. The second gear 120 includes a second shaft 120a and a plurality of second teeth 120b (or second teeth 120b) having a suitable profile, e.g., spiral, straight, helical, etc. In an example implementation, the second teeth 120b have a spiral profile. The second teeth 120b are configured to engage with the first teeth 110b. The second gear 120 is rotatably coupled to the first gear 110 via respective teeth (i.e., the first teeth 110b and the second teeth 120b) such that rotational axes of the first gear 110 and the second gear 120 make a pre-defined angle. In the depicted embodiment, the rotational axes of the first gear 110 and the second gear 120 are perpendicular to each other. In an embodiment, the second gear 120 is oriented such that the rotational axis of the second gear 120 substantially aligns with the longitudinal axis of the body 52. The second gear 120 is configured to transfer rotational power or torque of the first gear 110 to an instrument coupled to the device 10. The second shaft 120a is operatively coupled to the instrument as explained later.
The first gear 110 is rotatably coupled to the shaft 210. For example, the first shaft 110a of the first gear 110 is coupled to the shaft 210 of the motor 200 using any known coupling mechanism, for example, using a tapered connector. The first gear 110 is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the shaft 210. The rotational direction of the first gear 110 is the same as the rotational direction of the shaft 210. In response to the rotation of the first gear 110, the second gear 120 is configured to rotate in an opposite direction as that of the first gear 110. For example, upon rotation of the shaft 210 in the clockwise direction, the first gear 110 in the clockwise direction, causing the second gear 120 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction. Similarly, upon the rotation of the shaft 210 in the anticlockwise direction, the first gear 110 rotates in the anticlockwise direction and the second gear rotates in the clockwise direction.
A gear ratio of the first gear 110 and the second gear 120 is designed based upon requirements. For example, the diameter of the second gear 120 may be larger than the first gear 110 so that the second gear 120 rotates with a greater torque than that of the first gear 110. Alternatively, or in addition, the number of second teeth 120b is more than the number of first teeth 110b so that the second gear 120 rotates with a greater torque than that of the first gear 110. This improves the overall efficiency of the device 10. The first gear 110 and the second gear 120 may be made of any suitable material including, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium. In an exemplary embodiment, the first gear 110 and the second gear 120 are made of stainless steel.
In an embodiment, the second shaft 120a of the second gear 120 and the connector 20 form an integrated structure. It should be appreciated though that the second shaft 120a and the connector 20 may be separate components coupled to each other using any suitable coupling mechanism. In response to the rotation of the second gear 120, the connector 20 is configured to rotate in the same rotational direction. The rotational motion (and the torque) of the connector 20 drives an instrument coupled to the connector 20.
The torque provided to a surgical instrument coupled to the device 10 depends upon the torque of the second gear 120, which in turn depends on the rotational speed of the motor 200. By controlling the rotational speed of the motor 200, the torque provided to the surgical instrument is controlled. In an embodiment, the device 10 includes a control unit 300 configured to control the rotational speed of the motor 200. The control unit 300 provides a precise control over motion, speed and torque for accurate functioning of a surgical instrument coupled to the device 10. The control unit 300 is electrically coupled to the motor 200. In an embodiment, the control unit 300 is configured to set the rotational speed of the motor 200 depending upon the surgical instrument. For example, when a first surgical instrument is coupled to the device 10, the control unit 300 may set the rotational speed of the motor 200 to a first pre-defined value and when a second surgical instrument is coupled to the device 10, the control unit 300 may set the rotational speed of the motor 200 to a second pre-defined value. The control unit 300 may enable a user to provide an input corresponding to which surgical instrument is coupled to the device 10, for example, via the screen 60. By adjusting the rotational speed of the motor 200 depending upon surgical instruments, a single device 10 accommodates a varied range of surgical instruments, thereby enhancing versatility and usability of the device 10.
In an embodiment, the control unit 300 is configured to adjust the rotational speed of the motor 200 dynamically based upon one or more parameters such as, without limitation, torque, bone density, feed rate, rotational speed, etc. The device 10 may include one or more sensors (not shown). Each sensor of the one or more sensors are configured to sense a corresponding parameter of the one or more parameters and generate an electrical signal corresponding to the measured parameter. The control unit 300 is electrically coupled to the one or more sensors. The control unit 300 is configured to receive sensed values of the one or more parameters from the one or more sensor and is configured to adjust the rotational speed of the motor 200 based upon the sensed values. The one or more sensors may be a speed sensor, torque sensor, a feed rate sensor, feed direction sensor, rotation per minute (RPM) sensor, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more sensors includes a torque sensor (not shown). The torque sensor may be coupled to one or more of: the motor 200, the first gear 110, the second gear 120, etc. and is configured to sense a respective torque value. In an embodiment, the torque sensor is coupled to the motor 200. The torque sensor is configured to measure torque on the motor 200 and generate an electrical signal corresponding to the measured torque. The torque sensor sends the electrical signal to the control unit 300. The torque sensor may be a dynamic torque sensor. The control unit 300 determines torque on the surgical instrument based upon the electrical signal corresponding to the measured torque by the torque sensor. The control unit 300 may compare the torque on the surgical instrument with a reference value corresponding to the surgical instrument. The control unit 300 adjusts the rotational speed of the motor 200 based upon the comparison. The reference value may correspond to a desired or ideal torque value and may be pre-stored in the control unit 300.
In an embodiment, the control unit 300 is configured to determine a bone density based upon the measured torque and adjust the rotational speed of the motor 200 based upon the bone density. The control unit 300 may use a look-up table mapping different torque values and corresponding bone density or may use a regression relationship between the torque values and the bone density. The look-up table or the regression relationship may be pre-stored in the control unit 300. The control unit 300 is configured to adjust the rotational speed of the motor 200 based upon the bone density. For example, the control unit 300 increases the rotational speed of the motor 200 (thereby, increasing torque provided to the surgical instrument) when the bone density is higher than a pre-defined value and decreases the rotational speed of the motor 200 (thereby, decreasing the torque provided to the surgical instrument) when the bone density is lower than a pre-define value. The pre-defined value may be stored in the control unit 300. In another example, when the control unit 300 determines that the bone density is increasing, the control unit 300 increases the rotational speed of the motor 200 and vice versa.
The pre-defined or expected torque values may be defined for each instrument separately. An exemplary approach to calculate the pre-defined torque values is explained below with respect to a cutting instrument, like a milling cutter. It would be apparent to a person skilled in art that the pre-defined torque values may be appropriately calculated in a similar manner. In an embodiment, the pre-defined torque value may be calculated using Eq. (1) below:
T=(k_C ×a_p ×D)/(2×1000) … Eq. (1)
In Eq. (1), ‘T’ represents the torque value, ‘k_C’ represents the cutting force applied by the surgical instrument, ‘a_p’ represents the desired depth of a cut in the bone and ‘D’ is the diameter of a cutting element of the surgical instrument. The value of k_C depends upon the bone density. In an embodiment, k_C may be set to a first value, a second value and a third value for a soft bone, a medium bone and a hard bone, where the first value is lower than the second value, which is turn is lower than the third value.
Further, a pre-defined feed rate for the cutting instrument may be calculated using Eq. (2) below:
v_f=(n)×(z)×(f_z ) … Eq (2)
In Eq. (2), ‘v_f’ represents the feed rate for the cutting instrument, ‘z’ represents the number of teeth/blades of the cutting instrument and ‘f_z’ is feed rate per tooth/blade of the cutting instrument and 'n' represents the rotational speed of a spindle of the cutting instrument. The feed rate per tooth f_z may be defined depending upon required precision for making a cut. The rotational speed n may be calculated using Eq. (3) below:
n="(V×1000)" /"(π×D)" … Eq. (3)
In Eq. (3), ‘"V" ’ represents the speed of the cutting instrument and ‘"D" ’ represents the diameter of the cutting element of the cutting instrument.
Thus, the pre-defined torque values may be calculated for different levels of bone hardness. These values may be adjusted based upon the material properties and desired cutting conditions to ensure effective and precise cutting.
The control unit 300 may include a memory (not shown) storing computer readable-instructions corresponding to various functions performed by the control unit 300. The memory may be a volatile or a non-volatile memory. The memory may be a read only memory, a random-access memory, a flash memory, etc. or any combinations thereof. The control unit 300 includes a processing device capable of executing the instructions. Examples of the processing device include a programmable logic controller (PLC), a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit, etc. In an exemplary implementation, the processing unit is a microcontroller.
The device 10 includes a casing 50 configured to encase various components of the device 10, as shown in Fig. 1. The casing 50 may be made of any suitable material including, without limitation, plastics or metals. In an exemplary embodiment, the casing 50 is made of casted stainless steel. The casing 50 may have an ergonomic shape so that a surgeon can easily hold and operate the device 10 during a surgical procedure. In an exemplary embodiment, the casing 50 has a gun-like shape. The casing 50 includes a body 52 provided toward the top end 10c and an arm 54 extending from the body 52 towards the bottom end 10d. The body 52 includes a hole 56 provided towards the distal side 10b of the device 10. The connector 20 is placed proximal to the hole 56. The surgical instruments are coupled to the connector 20 through the hole 56. The arm 54 provides a grip for the surgeon to hold and operate the device 10 single handedly. The casing 50 includes a hole 70 (depicted in Fig. 5a) provided at the proximal end 10a. The hole 70 provides a passage for inserting a guidewire into the device 10.
The device 10 includes at least one control element. The at least one control element is electrically coupled to the motor 200 using connecting wires (not shown). The at least one control element is configured to the control the rotational direction of the motor 200 (either in clockwise direction or anticlockwise direction). In the depicted embodiment, the at least one control element includes a first switch 250a and a second switch 250b provided on the arm 54 of the casing 50 towards the distal side 10b of the device 10. Pressing any of the first switch 250a and the second switch 250b causes the motor 200 to rotate in a corresponding direction. For example, upon pressing the first switch 250a, the motor 200 rotates in a first direction (e.g., clockwise direction) and upon pressing the second switch 250b, the motor 200 rotates in a second direction (e.g., in the anticlockwise direction). The motor 200 may continue to rotate in the same direction as long as the corresponding switch (either the first switch 250a or the second switch 250b) is kept pressed. Thought the at least one control element is shown as having two switches, it should be appreciated that at least one control element may include a single switch (e.g., a two-way switch) capable of switching the rotational direction of the motor 200 between the first direction and the second direction.
The device 10 optionally includes a screen 60. The screen 60 is provided on the body 52 of the casing 50 towards the top end 10c of the device 10. The screen 60 may be coupled to the casing 50 using any known technique, including, without limitation, snap-fit locking, adhesive bonding, thread-screw locking, etc. The screen 60 is electrically coupled to control unit 300 and/or the one or more sensors with the help of connecting wires (not shown). The screen 60 is configured to display one or more operating parameters. The one or more operating parameters includes at least one of: a rotational speed, a rotational direction, torque, a feed rate, a feed direction, bone density, etc. The one or more parameters displayed on the screen 60 depend on values sensed by the one or more sensor used in the device 10. For example, the screen 60 may display values of the rotational speed of the motor 200 (or of the gear assembly), torque generated by the motor 200 (or of the gear assembly), bone density of a patient’s bone, etc. Similarly, the screen 60 may display a feed rate, a feed direction, a rotational speed in, say, rotation per minute (RPM) of the connected instrument and so forth. In an embodiment, the control unit 300 is configured to control the screen 60 to display the one or more parameters. The screen 60 may be a Liquid-crystal Display (LCD), a Light-emitting Diode (LED) display, an Organic Light-emitting Diode (OLED) display, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the screen 60 is an OLED.
As explained earlier, the device 10 is capable of driving various surgical instruments. The surgical instruments may include a reamer, a flexible reamer, a hip-cup reamer, a guidewire, etc. Fig. 3 illustrates an exemplary flexible reamer 102 (or reamer 102). The reamer 102 is configured to ream a bone canal. The reamer 102 includes a drill 102a disposed towards a distal end of the reamer 102 and a shank 102b extending from the drill 102a toward a proximal end of the reamer 102. A first coupling portion 102c is provided towards the proximal end of the reamer 102. The first coupling portion 102c is removably coupled to the connector 20. For example, the first coupling portion 102c fits within the hole 22 of the connector 20. The shape and dimensions of the first coupling portion 102c correspond to the shape and dimensions of the hole 22. A second coupling portion 102d is provided distal to the first coupling portion 102c. A part of the second coupling portion 102d fits within the hole 56 of the casing 50. The cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the second coupling portion 102d correspond to the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the hole 56. Thus, the reamer 102 is coupled to the device 10.
Fig. 4 illustrates an exemplary hip-cup reamer 104. The hip-up reamer 104 is configured to ream an acetabulum cup of a patient. The hip-cup reamer 104 includes a head 104a disposed towards a distal end of the hip-cup reamer 104 and a shaft 104b extending from the head 104a towards a proximal end of the hip-cup reamer 104. The head 104a generally has a hemispherical shape that mimics the acetabular cup of the patient. The head 104a includes plurality of cutting surfaces for removal of bone material. A first coupling portion 104c is provided towards the proximal end of the hip-cup reamer 104. The first coupling portion 104c is removably coupled to the connector 20. For example, the first coupling portion 104c fits within the hole 22 of the connector 20. The shape and dimensions of the first coupling portion 104c corresponds to the shape and dimensions of the hole 22. A second coupling portion 104d is provided distal to the first coupling portion 104c. A part of the second coupling portion 104d fits within the hole 56 of the casing 50. The cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the second coupling portion 104d corresponds to the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the hole 56. Thus, the hip-cup reamer 104 is coupled to the device 10.
The flexible reamer and the hip-cup reamer described herein are merely exemplary and should not be considered as limiting. It should be appreciated that any flexible reamer, any hip-cup reamer and/or any other surgical instrument may be coupled to the device 10 without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
According to an embodiment, a guidewire may be coupled to the device 10. Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary guidewire 106. The guidewire 106 is inserted into the patient’s body and guides a pathway for the surgery. The guidewire 106 includes a guidewire shaft 106a extending from a proximal end to a distal end. Optionally, a needle 106b is provided towards the distal end of the guidewire shaft 106a. A tip of the needle 106b may be bent, and/or rotated in a desired direction (e.g., a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction) based upon requirements. The needle 106b is then inserted into a patient’s body and is advanced towards the target site. The needle 106b helps in directing the guidewire 106 towards the targeted site.
In an embodiment, an adapter 107 may be provided to couple the guidewire 106 with the connector 20. The adaptor 107 is removably coupled to the connector 20 of the device 10, as shown in Fig. 5a. The adapter 107 is configured to channelize the movement of the guidewire into transverse direction and prevent any angular deviation. In an embodiment, the adapter 107 includes a first portion 107a and a second portion 107b. In an embodiment, the first portion 107a and the second portion 107b form an integrated structure. Alternately, the first portion 107a and the second portion 107b may be separate components coupled to each other using any suitable technique known in the art.
The first portion 107a may be generally cylindrical in shape. The first portion 107a is hollow from inside to provide a passage for the guidewire. The first portion 107a is coupled to the connector 20. In an embodiment, the first portion 107a includes a first coupling portion (not shown). The first coupling portion snugly fits within the hole 22 of the connector 20. The shape and dimensions of the first coupling portion correspond to the shape and dimensions of the hole 22.
The second portion 107b of the adapter 107 may have conical, frustum shape. In an example embodiment, the second portion 107b of the adapter 107 is frustum in shape. The adaptor 107 includes a hole 107c. The hole 107c extends from a distal end to a proximal end of the adaptor 107. The hole 107c is configured to receive the guidewire 106. The diameter of the hole 107c corresponds to a diameter of the guidewire 106. The hole 107c ensures that the guidewire 106 remains straight and prevents any angular deviation.
The device 10 may be used to advance or retract a suitable guidewire during a surgical procedure. The device 10 includes a guide assembly for guiding a guidewire (e.g., a guidewire 190). The guidewire 190 may be similar to the guidewire 106. In an embodiment, the guide assembly includes a third gear 130, and a gear box 150, as shown in Figs. 2 and 6.
The third gear 130 includes a third shaft 130a and a third plurality of teeth 130b (or third teeth 130b). The third teeth 130b may have a suitable profile, e.g., straight, spiral, helical, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the third teeth 130b have a spiral profile. The third teeth 130b are configured to engage with the first teeth 110b. The third gear 130 is rotatably coupled to the first gear 110 via respective teeth (i.e., the first teeth 110b and the third teeth 130b) such that rotational axes of the first gear 110 and the third gear 130 make a pre-defined angle. In the depicted embodiment, the rotational axes of the first gear 110 and the third gear 130 are perpendicular to each other. In an embodiment, the third gear 130 is oriented such that the rotational axis of the third gear 130 substantially aligns with the longitudinal axis of the body 52. The third gear 130 is configured to transfer rotational power or torque of the first gear 110 to the gear box 150. In response to the rotation of the first gear 110, the third gear 130 is configured to rotate in an opposite direction as that of the first gear 110.
A gear ratio of the third gear 130 and the first gear 110 is designed based upon requirements. For example, the diameter of the first gear 110 may be larger than the third gear 130 so that the third gear 130 rotates with a decreased torque than that of the first gear 110. Alternatively, or in addition, the number of third teeth 130b is less than the number of first teeth 110b so that the third gear 130 rotates with a decreased torque than that of the first gear 110. The third gear 130 may be made of any suitable material such as, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium, etc. In an example implementation, the third gear 130 is made of stainless steel.
The third gear 130 is operatively coupled to the gear box 150. In an embodiment, the gear box 150 includes a fourth gear 154, a fifth gear 158 and a belt 160 as shown in Fig. 6. In an embodiment, the third shaft 130a of the third gear 130 is rotatably coupled to the fourth gear 154 of the gear box 150 via an axle 132. In an exemplary implementation, the third shaft 130a of the third gear 130 is coupled to one end of the axle 132 using shaft keys, though any other suitable coupling mechanism may be used. Alternately, the third shaft 130a and the axle 132 may form an integrated structure, i.e., the third shaft 130a and the axle 132 may be a single shaft.
The fourth gear 154 and the fifth gear 158 may be spur gears, helical gears, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the fourth gear 154 and the fifth gear 158 are spur gears having a corresponding plurality of teeth. The fourth gear 154 may be coupled to the other end of the axle 132 using known mechanisms, for example, shaft keys, tapered fit, interference fit, etc. The fourth gear 154 and the fifth gear 158 are spaced apart from each other by a suitable distance.
The fourth gear 154 is operatively coupled to the fifth gear 158 via the belt 160. The belt 160 wraps around a portion of each of the fourth gear 154 and the fifth gear 158 tightly, thereby forming a belt drive assembly. The fourth gear 154 acts as a driver pulley and the fifth gear 158 acts as a driven pulley. The belt 160 includes a plurality of grooves configured to engage with the plurality of teeth of the fourth gear 154 and the plurality of teeth of the fifth gear 158. When the axle 132 rotates due to rotation of the third gear 130, the fourth gear 154 rotates in the same direction. The belt 160 is configured to move in response to the rotation of the fourth gear 154 and rotate the fifth gear 158. In other words, the rotation of the fourth gear 154 causes tension in the belt 160 due to frictional interaction between the plurality of teeth of the fourth gear 154 and the plurality of grooves of the belt 160. As a result, the fifth gear 158 rotates in the same direction as that of the fourth gear 154 due to the engagement of the plurality of grooves of the belt 160 and the plurality of teeth of the fifth gear 158.
The guide assembly further includes a sixth gear 180. The sixth gear 180 is mounted on an inner surface of the body 52 at a pre-defined distance from the fifth gear 158 in such a way that the sixth gear 180 and the belt 160 defines a gap therebetween. The gap is configured to hold a suitable guidewire. In an embodiment, the fourth gear 154, the fifth gear 158 and the sixth gear 180 are positioned such that respective rotational axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 52. The sixth gear 180 may be any suitable gear such as, without limitation, a spur gear, a pulley, etc. In the depicted embodiment, the sixth gear 180 is a spur gear having a plurality of teeth. Though in the depicted embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the fifth gear 158 is mounted above the fourth gear 154 and the sixth gear 180 is mounted above the fifth gear 158, in another embodiment, the fifth gear 158 may be mounted below the fourth gear 154 and the sixth gear 180 may be mounted below the fifth gear 158.
Fig. 6 illustrates an exemplary guidewire 190 placed between the belt 160 of the gear box 150 and the sixth gear 180 as shown. When the belt 160 moves, a frictional force is generated on the guidewire 190, causing the guidewire 190 to move in a forward or a backward direction depending upon the direction of movement of the belt 160. The sixth gear 180 provides tension to the guidewire 190, thereby preventing slippage of the guidewire 190 from the guide assembly. The distance between the belt 160 and the sixth gear 180 is designed to ensure sufficient tension on the guidewire 190. The guidewire 190 is coupled to the connector 20 in a similar manner as explained with respect to Fig. 5. The second gear 120 provides necessary torque to the guidewire 190 via the connector 20 for the guidewire 190 to move in the forward or the backward direction.
For example, when the user presses the first switch 250a, the motor 200 rotates in the clockwise direction. This causes the first gear 110 to rotate in the clockwise direction and the second gear 120 and the third gear 130 to rotates in the anticlockwise direction. The rotation of the axle 132 in the anticlockwise direction causes the fourth gear 154 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction. Consequently, the belt 160 rotates in the anticlockwise direction and transfers the tension to the fifth gear 158, causing the fifth gear 158 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction. The guidewire 190 (that is in contact with the moving belt 160 is pushed in the backward direction due to the frictional force exerted by the belt 160. The sixth gear 180 presses against the guidewire 190, maintaining the tension and preventing slippage of the guidewire 190. The rotation of the second gear 120 in the anticlockwise direction causes the connector 20 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction and provides torque on the guidewire 190 to move in the backward direction, thereby retracting the guidewire 190.
Similarly, when the user presses the second control element 250b, the motor 200 rotates in the anticlockwise direction. This causes the first gear 110 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction and the second gear 120 and the third gear 130 rotates in the clockwise direction. The rotation of the axle 132 in the clockwise direction causes the fourth gear 154 to rotate in the clockwise direction. In response to which, the belt 160 rotates in the clockwise direction and transfers the tension to the fifth gear 158, causing the fifth gear 158 to rotate in the clockwise direction. The guidewire 190 (that is in contact with the moving belt 160) is pulled in the forward due to the frictional force exerted by the belt 160. The sixth gear 180 presses against the guidewire 190, maintaining the tension and preventing slippage of the guidewire 190. The rotation of the second gear 120 in the clockwise direction causes the connector 20 to rotate in the corresponding direction and provide torque for the guidewire 190 to move in the forward direction, thereby advancing the guidewire 190.
The feed rate of the guidewire 190 depends upon the rotational speed of the belt 160, which in turn depends upon the rotational speed of the third gear 130, which eventually depends upon the rotational speed of the motor 200. Further, the torque provided to the guidewire 190 depends upon the rotational speed of the second gear 120, which in turn depends upon the rotational speed of the motor 200. Hence, the feed rate and/or the rotational speed of the guidewire 190 can be controlled by controlling the rotational speed of the motor 200. In an embodiment, the control unit 300 determines the torque on the guidewire 190 and adjusts the rotational speed of the motor 200 based upon the measured torque in a similar manner as described earlier to achieve a desired feed rate of the guidewire 190.
The fourth gear 154, the fifth gear 158 and the sixth gear 180 may be made of a material including, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the fourth gear 154, the fifth gear 158 and the sixth gear 180 are made of stainless steel. The belt 160 may be made of a material, such as, stainless steel, titanium, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, belt 160 is made of stainless steel.
Fig. 7 depicts a flowchart for a method 700 of operating the device 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
At step 702, a desired surgical instrument (e.g., reamer, rasps, etc.) is coupled to the device 10. The desired surgical instrument is inserted through the hole 56 of the device 10 and is removably coupled to the connector 20, as described earlier. For coupling a guidewire (e.g., the guidewire 106) to the device 10, the guidewire is inserted into the device 10 from a hole 70 provided in the proximal side 10a and is placed between the belt 160 and the sixth gear 180.
At step 704, a power supply is connected to the power connector 280 of the device 10 for power supply.
At step 706, the user presses an appropriate control element of the one or more control elements to rotate the motor 200 in a desired direction. For example, the user presses the first switch 250a to rotate the motor 200 in the clockwise direction. This causes the connector 20 to rotate in the anticlockwise direction, thereby providing torque to the coupled surgical instrument. The user may keep the first switch 250a pressed.
As explained earlier, the device 10 automatically controls the rotational speed of the motor 200 and hence, the torque provided to the desired surgical instrument based upon the sensed values from one or more sensors.
Optionally, at step 708, the user may press another appropriate control element to reverse the motion of the surgical instrument as needed during the surgical procedure.
At step 710, the user may de-coupled the surgical instrument and couple another surgical instrument to the device 10. The steps 706 and 708 may be repeated as needed to operate the other surgical instrument.
At step 712, the power supply is disconnected from the device 10 once the surgical procedure is completed.
The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention is/are used. , Claims:WE CLAIM
1. A device (10) for driving multiple surgical instruments, the device (10) comprising:
a. a motor (200) comprising a shaft (210);
b. a first gear (110) rotatably coupled to the shaft (210) and, in response to the rotation of the shaft (210), the first gear (110) is configured to rotate in the same direction as that of the shaft (210);
c. a second gear (120) rotatably coupled to the first gear (110) and, in response to the rotation of the first gear (110), the second gear (120) is configured to rotate in an opposite direction as that of the first gear (110), a rotational axis of the second gear (120) is perpendicular to a rotational axis of the first gear (110); and
d. a connector (20) rotatably coupled to the second gear (120) and removably coupled to a surgical instrument (102, 104, 106), wherein the connector (20) is configured to provide torque to the surgical instrument (102, 104, 106).
2. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (10) comprises:
a. one or more sensors, each sensor of the one or more sensors configured to measure a corresponding parameter of one or more parameters and generate an electrical signal corresponding to the measured parameter; and
b. a control unit (300), electrically coupled to the motor (200), configured to receive the one or more electrical signals and adjust a rotational speed of the motor (200) based upon the received one or more electrical signals.
3. The device (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more sensors comprises a torque sensor electrically coupled to one of: the shaft (210), the first gear (110) or the second gear (120), the torque sensor configured to generate an electrical signal corresponding to an associated torque; wherein the control unit (300) is configured to:
a. determine a bone density based upon the electrical signal corresponding to the torque; and
b. adjust the rotational speed of the motor (200) based upon the bone density.
4. The device (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more sensors comprises at least one of: a speed sensor, a torque sensor, a feed rate sensor, a feed direction sensor, and rotation per minute (RPM) sensor.
5. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (10) comprises at least one control element (250a, 250b) electrically coupled with the motor (200) and configured to control a rotational direction of the motor (200).
6. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (10) comprises a control unit (300) configured to set a rotational speed of the motor (200) depending upon the surgical instrument (102, 104, 106) coupled to the connector (20).
7. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (10) comprises a screen (60) configured to display one or more operating parameters.
8. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (10) comprises a guide assembly configured to a guidewire (106), the guide assembly comprising:
a. a third gear (130) rotatably coupled to the first gear (110) and, in response to the rotation of the first gear (110), the third gear (130) is configured to rotate in an opposite direction as that of the first gear (110), a rotational axis of the third gear (130) is perpendicular to a rotational axis of the first gear (110);
b. a fourth gear (154) rotatably coupled to the third gear (130);
c. a fifth gear (158);
d. a belt (160) partially wrapped around the fourth gear (154) and the fifth gear (158); the belt (160) configured to move in response to the rotation of the fourth gear (154) and rotate the fifth gear (158); and
e. a sixth gear (180) mounted on an inner surface of a body (52) of the device (10), the sixth gear (180) and the belt (160) defining a gap therebetween, the gap configured to hold the guidewire (106).
9. The device (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the third gear (130) and the fourth gear (154) are coupled using an axle (132).
10. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the surgical instrument (102, 104, 106) comprises a reamer, a hip-cup reamer, a surgical drill, a screw driver, a rasp, a bone mill, a guidewire.
11. The device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connector (20) comprises a hole (22) provided at a distal end of the connector (20) and extending at least partially through the length of the connector (20), the hole (22) is configured to receive a first coupling portion (102, 104c) of the surgical instrument (102, 104, 106), thereby coupling the connector (20) with the surgical instrument (102, 104, 106).