Synergistic Suture Placement System for Spinal Surgery
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present disclosure relates to a novel system for suture placement in spinal surgery, combining a suturing device with advanced technologies such as computer vision, AI, IoT, and blockchain to improve surgical outcomes and provide real-time feedback to surgeons.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent relates to devices and methods for suture placement, specifically addressing the challenge of durotomy during spinal surgery. However, the original patent's limitations lie in its reliance on manual operation and lack of real-time feedback. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating advanced technologies to provide a more efficient, accurate, and secure system for suture placement.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The synergistic suture placement system comprises a suturing device with a curved needle, an actuator, and a needle holder. The system integrates a computer vision module to track tissue movement and provide real-time feedback to the surgeon. An AI-powered algorithm predicts optimal suture placement based on real-time tissue movement data. Additionally, an IoT sensor is embedded in the curved needle holder to monitor needle movement and provide real-time feedback to the surgeon. The system also utilizes a blockchain-based data storage system to securely store surgical procedure data. The inventive concept enables real-time guidance for optimal suture placement, reducing the risk of durotomy and improving surgical outcomes.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel combinations of advanced technologies, such as computer vision, AI, IoT, and blockchain, which are not obvious from the original patent. The integration of these technologies with the suturing device provides a non-obvious solution to the problem of durotomy during spinal surgery.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include integrating the suturing device with a robotic surgical system, utilizing different types of sensors or algorithms, or incorporating additional features such as real-time suture tension monitoring or automated suture material selection.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The synergistic suture placement system has significant commercial potential in the spinal surgery market, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. The system's ability to improve surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and provide real-time feedback to surgeons could lead to increased adoption and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0625 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/0469 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/062 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/06004 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/06066 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/06109 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/06114 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00738 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00867 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00946 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0472 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0474 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0608 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/06052 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/06057 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Surgical instrumentation and medical device technologies, specifically focused on minimally invasive surgical techniques for suture placement and tissue repair, with expertise in biomechanical design, medical imaging, and surgical robotics
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or surgical device designer with advanced degrees in bioengineering, mechanical engineering, or medical technologies, possessing comprehensive knowledge of surgical instrumentation, computer-assisted medical technologies, and advanced sensing systems
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that integrating computer vision, AI, and IoT technologies into existing surgical suturing devices represents a predictable technological evolution. The source patent's detailed suture placement methodology provides a clear foundation for enhancing surgical precision through advanced monitoring and guidance technologies. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements using well-established technological integration strategies common in medical device development.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,179 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices and methods for suture placement |
| Assignee(s) | DURATAP LLC |