Intelligent Lateral Retractor System for Enhanced Surgical Outcomes
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel lateral retractor system integrating AI, IoT, blockchain, and advanced biomaterials to optimize surgical corridor formation, tissue manipulation, and patient outcomes in lateral spine surgical procedures.
Background and Problem Solved
Current lateral retractor systems for spine surgical procedures lack real-time feedback, secure data tracking, and adaptive tissue manipulation. The original patent addressed some limitations, but the proposed inventive concept further enhances the system by incorporating advanced technologies to improve surgical outcomes and reduce complications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Intelligent Lateral Retractor System consists of a retractor device with pivotable armatures and blades, an artificial intelligence module for real-time analysis of surgical corridor formation and tissue manipulation, an IoT-enabled sensor array for real-time monitoring, a blockchain-based data storage system for secure and transparent tracking of surgical outcomes, and modular, interchangeable blades and armatures made from novel biomaterials. The system enables surgeons to optimize surgical procedures, reduce tissue damage, and improve patient outcomes.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The integration of AI, IoT, blockchain, and advanced biomaterials with a lateral retractor system is novel and non-obvious, as it combines distinct technologies to create a more powerful and effective system for lateral spine surgical procedures.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in sensor array configurations, AI algorithm designs, blockchain architecture, and biomaterial compositions. Additional features, such as augmented reality visualization or robotic assistance, could be integrated to further enhance the system.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Intelligent Lateral Retractor System has significant commercial potential in the spine surgery market, with potential applications in hospitals, surgical centers, and medical research institutions. The system's ability to improve surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and enhance patient safety could lead to widespread adoption and market growth.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0206 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/025 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/7079 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0256 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Surgical Instrumentation, specifically lateral spine surgical retractor systems, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, medical device design, and minimally invasive surgical techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or surgical instrument designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in orthopedic/spinal surgical device development, familiar with mechanical design, sensor integration, and emerging medical technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating digital technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain with existing surgical retractor systems represents a predictable technological evolution. The core mechanical design of pivotable armatures remains consistent with the source patent, while added digital layers provide enhanced functionality. These technological integrations represent incremental improvements using known techniques in medical device design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,173 |
|---|---|
| Title | Lateral retractor system and methods of use |
| Assignee(s) | Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc. |