U.S. patent application number 11/101607 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-01 for surgical retractor system.
Invention is credited to Hamel, Ross J., Kerr, Sean, Velikaris, James.
Application Number | 20050192486 11/101607 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32505880 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050192486 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hamel, Ross J. ; et
al. |
September 1, 2005 |
Surgical retractor system
Abstract
The present invention provides an improved surgical retractor
system useful for holding tissue away from a surgical site during a
medical or dental procedure. In one embodiment, the surgical
retractor system is comprised of a tubular member, such as a
cannula, and a retractor member. In an embodiment, the retractor
member may be ring shaped. The retractor member preferably may have
an opening therethrough for receiving the cannula. An engaging
member associated with the retractor member may be provided for
rotatably engaging the cannula. In one embodiment, the cannula may
have external threads that are releaseably engaged with the
engaging member and allows the degree or amount of tissue
retraction to be adjusted. The cannula may be configured to be used
with and secured to a handle to facilitate using the retractor
system. A method of using the retractor system is also
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Hamel, Ross J.; (West
Chester, PA) ; Velikaris, James; (Schwenskville,
PA) ; Kerr, Sean; (Oreland, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JONES DAY
222 EAST 41ST ST
NEW YORK
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
32505880 |
Appl. No.: |
11/101607 |
Filed: |
April 7, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11101607 |
Apr 7, 2005 |
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10315658 |
Dec 10, 2002 |
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10315658 |
Dec 10, 2002 |
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09742254 |
Dec 20, 2000 |
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6524238 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/226 ;
600/210 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/0042 20130101;
A61B 2017/0046 20130101; A61B 17/24 20130101; A61B 17/34 20130101;
A61B 17/3417 20130101; A61B 1/32 20130101; A61B 2017/3482 20130101;
A61B 17/17 20130101; A61B 2017/00265 20130101; A61B 2017/348
20130101; A61B 2017/00477 20130101; A61B 17/0218 20130101; A61B
2017/3492 20130101; A61B 17/0281 20130101; A61B 17/3421 20130101;
A61B 17/02 20130101; A61B 2017/349 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/226 ;
600/210 |
International
Class: |
A61B 001/32 |
Claims
1. A surgical retractor system comprising: an elongated tubular
member; a retractor member having a side surface and an opening
configured and adapted to receive the tubular member, and an
engaging member received in the side surface of the retractor,
wherein the engaging member engages the tubular member; wherein
rotation of one of the tubular member and the retractor member
rotatably engages the retractor with the tubular member.
2. The system of claim 1 further comprising the tubular member
having external threads disposed on at least part of the tubular
member for rotatably engaging the engaging member of the
retractor.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the engaging member is disposed in
a bore in the side surface of the retractor member, the bore
extending from an outer surface of the retractor member to and in
communication with the opening in the retractor member.
4. The system of claim 2 wherein the engaging member has a blunted
tip protruding at least partially into the opening of the retractor
member for engaging the external threads of the tubular member.
5. The system of claim 2 wherein the engaging member comprises a
screw and the retractor member has a threaded hole communicating
with the opening of the retractor member, the screw being disposed
in the threaded hole.
6. The system of claim 2 wherein the engaging member comprises
threads disposed on the retractor member adjacent the opening for
receiving the tubular member, the threads of the retractor member
engageable with the threads of the tubular member.
7. The system of claim 1 further comprising the tubular member
having a knob for rotating the tubular member.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein the tubular member is a
cannula.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the retractor member is shaped
substantially like a ring.
10. The system of claim 1 further comprising the retractor having
at least one hole configured to engage at least part of a surgical
instrument for manipulating the retractor member.
11. A cheek retractor system comprising: a cannula having threads
disposed on at least a portion of the cannula; a retractor member
having a side surface and an opening through the retractor member
for receiving the cannula; and an engaging member positioned within
the side surface of the retractor member, the engaging member
rotatably engaging the cannula.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein the engaging member is a screw
having a tip, the tip of the screw protruding at least partially
into the opening of the retractor for engaging the cannula.
13. The system of claim 11 wherein the engaging member comprises
threads disposed on the retractor member adjacent the opening for
receiving the tubular member.
14. The system of claim 11 further comprising the cannula having a
distal end, a proximal end, and a window at the proximal end for
facilitating observation or irrigation of the surgical site.
15. The system of claim 11 further comprising the retractor member
having a top surface, a bottom surface, and at least one hole
extending at least partially through the side surface for engaging
part of a surgical instrument to manipulate the retractor
member.
16. The system of claim 15 further comprising at least one hole
extending from the top surface to the bottom surface of the
retractor member for manipulating the retractor member.
17. The device of claim 11 further comprising at least two holes
extending at least partially through the retractor member, the at
least two holes each configured to receive part of a tool for
manipulating the retractor member.
18. The device of claim 11 wherein the engaging member comprises a
tip protruding at least partially into the retractor member
opening.
19. The device of claim 18 wherein the engaging member is a screw
that is threadably connected to the retractor member.
20. The device of claim 18 wherein the engaging member is a
pin.
21. The device of claim 18 wherein the engaging member comprises
threads disposed in the retractor opening.
22-38. (canceled)
39. A retractor system for insertion in a body for contacting and
moving body tissue comprising: an elongated tubular member made of
a biologically compatible material; and a retractor member having a
surface for contacting body tissue and an opening configured and
adapted to receive the tubular member, the retractor member further
having an engaging member for engaging the tubular member, wherein
rotation of one of the tubular member and the retractor member
rotatably engages the retractor with the tubular member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/742,254 filed Dec. 20, 2000, entitled "Universal
Handle," which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to surgical
instruments used in surgical procedures, and more particularly to
an improved handle that permits various instruments to be
releaseably attached for quicker and easier interchange.
[0003] The development of newer minimally invasive surgical
techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery, have allowed surgeons to
successfully perform numerous operative procedures in many
instances which in the past required the need for large surgical
incisions. In this newer procedure, one or several very small
incisions are made in the patient through which various surgical
instruments may be used to perform the required surgical procedure.
Minimally invasive surgery offers benefits which include creating
less trauma to the patient, reducing the risk of post-operative
infections, and allowing speedier recovery than conventional
surgery with its larger incisions.
[0004] Trocars are commonly used in minimally invasive surgeries.
They generally consist of a hollow cannula (tube) and an obturator
(bladed or pointed piercing device) which are used, in combination,
to make a small portal into a patient. The obturator is designed to
slide inside the cannula to create a single unit that may be used
to penetrate a small incision that has been previously made by a
surgeon. Once the trocar has penetrated the patient's body cavity,
the obturator is withdrawn while leaving the cannula in position.
Various surgical instruments can then be worked through the cannula
to perform whatever surgical technique is required.
[0005] Trocars are particularly useful in many types of surgery in
which a small incision will permit the required surgical procedure
to be completed. One such application is in maxillofacial surgery
where bone fractures occurring in the maxilla or mandible are
stabilized by bone screws and/or bone plates. In this trocar
application, drill guides can be inserted through the cannula which
allow the surgeon to pre-drill holes in the bone for receiving bone
screws. Trocars can also be used with soft tissue retractors, such
as cheek retractors which are employed to hold the tissue away from
the surgical site so that it does not interfere with fixation of
the facial fracture.
[0006] The cannula may be fastened or secured to a handle of some
type. This helps the surgeon control the trocar and facilitates the
process of both making the initial incision accurately and
subsequently working with various instruments in a manner which
reduces the chance of the cannula being pulled from the patient's
body cavity prematurely.
[0007] Handles of the past have typically employed various
approaches for coupling the cannula to the handle. For example,
cannulas were often attached in a permanent manner to the handle
such as by welding. Semi-permanent type couplings have also been
used such as threading the cannula head to the handle, or providing
set screws to hold both parts together. U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,721 to
Hearn discloses another semi-permanent type of coupling wherein a
retaining ring with an internal depression around its circumference
is provided that mates with a spring and ball detent on a surgical
instrument. The instrument is pushed into the retaining ring until
the detent is seated in the depression.
[0008] The handle designs of the past have several drawbacks. The
permanent type attachment does not allow the surgeon to interchange
different kinds or sizes of surgical instruments. This reduced
flexibility for the surgeon and increased prices for each trocar
unit which must contain both a handle and permanently affixed
cannula. Overall inventory costs are thereby also increased.
[0009] Although the semi-permanent type couplings offer
interchangeability of surgical instruments, they too have been
problematic. Using set screws or threaded coupling of the cannula
to the handle makes changing instruments cumbersome, especially
when it must be done during the exigencies of a surgical procedure.
While offering improvement, the coupling described in the Hearn
patent does not positively lock the cannula to the handle in a
manner that requires the surgeon to unlock the cannula from the
handle.
[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for a handle which allows for
improved releaseability and interchangeability of various surgical
instruments with the handle while overcoming the problems
associated with the foregoing prior art devices.
[0011] Retractor members, which in some embodiments may be
ring-shaped, may be used to withdraw or hold soft tissue away from
a surgical site to prevent injury to the tissue not directly
affected by the surgical procedure. For example, a retractor member
is sometimes used in maxillofacial medical and dental procedures to
retract the cheek of a patient to repair jaw bone fractures by
drilling holes in the damaged bone and implanting bone screws,
sometimes in combination with bone plates. Retractor members may be
mounted on a tubular member, such as a cannula. The cannula may be
inserted through an incision in the patient's cheek and the
retractor member is inserted through a second or other bodily
opening, such as the mouth or second incision, and then affixed
onto the cannula. The cannula/retractor member combination,
however, has proven difficult for the surgeon to assemble and
adjust in situ during the surgical procedure.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The invention is generally directed to a handle and system
of surgical tools which can be designed specifically to be
compatible and interchangeable with the handle.
[0013] In accordance with one embodiment, the handle is comprised
of a grasping portion and a handle lock assembly. The grasping
portion is used by the surgeon to hold and control the handle. The
handle lock assembly comprises a body with a top and a bottom, and
further includes a retractable slider pin which secures a surgical
instrument to the handle.
[0014] In another embodiment, the lock assembly body includes an
opening disposed in the body through which surgical instruments are
inserted. The opening, which is preferably circular in one
embodiment, extends from the top to the bottom of the lock assembly
body creating an opening passing completely through the body. The
retractable slider pin is movable from an extended position in
which the pin protrudes into the opening and secures the surgical
instrument to the handle, to a retracted position in which the pin
is withdrawn from the opening.
[0015] The slider pin may be connected to a handle slider which is
preferably a rectangular or square block in configuration, but is
not limited to those shapes. The slider pin may be integrally
connected with the handle slider such as by welding or the slider
pin and handle slider may be formed as an integral unit. Also
preferably, the handle slider is slidably mounted in a cavity or
other opening provided in the body of the handle lock assembly.
Alternatively, the handle slider may be mounted on the exterior of
the handle lock assembly which is a matter of design choice.
[0016] In one embodiment, the handle lock assembly of the handle
includes at least one handle release. The handle release is used to
move the retractable slider pin from the extended position to the
retracted position as discussed above. The handle release is
connected to the handle slider which is connected to the slider
pin, thereby moving the pin.
[0017] In accordance with another embodiment, at least one biasing
member is provided which biases the slider pin toward its extended
position. Preferably, the biasing member is a helical spring. In
one embodiment, the biasing member may be held by a recess provided
in the handle slider. The handle lock assembly may be attached to
the grasping portion of the handle by welding. The handle including
the grasping portion and handle lock assembly may be made of
stainless steel, however, it may be made of any material suitable
for the intended application. The grasping portion of the handle
may be hollow which reduces the cost and weight of the handle.
[0018] In accordance with one embodiment, the surgical instrument
that may be used with the handle of the invention is a cannula or
trocar assembly. The cannula, or different instrument as the case
may be, may include indentations which are designed to engage the
retractable slider pin thereby securing the cannula to the handle.
Preferably, the cannula or different instrument may further include
additional depressions which may be used to secure at least one
additional surgical device to the handle. In one embodiment, a soft
tissue retractor is an additional device that may be attached to
the handle. Preferably, the cannula or different instrument, and
additional devices that may be attached to the handle may be made
of stainless steel, however, they may be made of any material
suitable for the intended application. The cannula or different
instrument may further include a body portion and a head portion,
and preferably where these two portions are of different size
diameters, an inclined ramp may be included between the two
portions to facilitate insertion of the cannula into the handle as
discussed below. The cannula or different surgical instrument may
further comprise a knob connected to the cannula or different
instrument for grasping and rotating the cannula or different
instrument. At least one slot may be provided in the knob for
mating and engaging with at least one tab provided on a surgical
instrument intended to be inserted through the cannula or different
surgical instrument secured to the handle to prevent rotation of
the inserted instrument in the cannula or different instrument. An
obturator or a drill guide which are well known in the art may be
such an instrument provided with at least one tab which mates with
the at least one slot in the knob of the cannula or different
instrument.
[0019] In another embodiment, the handle lock assembly body of the
handle may include a transition portion between the handle lock
assembly and the grasping portion. The grasping portion preferably
may be angularly displaced, preferably about 30 degrees, from the
plane of the top of the handle lock assembly.
[0020] A handle lock system for performing a surgical procedure is
also provided. The system may comprise a handle which has a
grasping portion and handle lock assembly. The lock assembly
comprises a body with a top and a bottom, and a retractable slider
pin. The system further may include a cannula or different
instrument having indentations to engage the slider pin thereby
securing the cannula to the handle. In one embodiment, the handle
lock system may further include additional depressions for securing
an additional surgical instrument to the trocar handle. Preferably,
the additional surgical instrument may be a soft tissue
retractor.
[0021] A method of interchangeably using surgical instruments in a
handle lock assembly, and a trocar specifically, is also provided,
which may comprise the steps of: (a) providing a handle, the handle
having a grasping portion and a lock assembly, the lock assembly
comprising a body with a top and a bottom, a retractable slider
pin, and a passageway disposed in the body wherein the surgical
instruments are inserted for securing to the handle, the
retractable slider pin being movable from an extended position in
which the pin protrudes into the passageway to a retracted position
in which the pin is withdrawn from the passageway, (b) providing a
cannula having indentations to engage the retractable slider pin
thereby securing the cannula to the handle; (c) inserting the
cannula in the handle; (d) locking the cannula to the handle by
engaging the retractable pin in one of the indentations; (e)
retracting the retractable pin from the extended position to the
retracted position; and (f) removing the cannula from the handle.
The method may comprise inserting a different surgical instrument
having indentations into the passageway other than a cannula. The
method may further include inserting an obturator into the
cannula.
[0022] In another embodiment of the method, locking the cannula or
different surgical instrument to the handle may further include the
steps of withdrawing the slider pin from the passageway to the
retracted position by a user and inserting the cannula or different
instrument into the passageway before the slider pin engages one of
the indentations. The method may also further include the step of
rotating the cannula or different instrument to align the
indentations and sliding pin to lock the cannula or different
instrument to the handle.
[0023] The present invention provides an improved surgical
retractor system useful for holding tissue away from a surgical
site during a medical or dental procedure. In one embodiment, the
surgical retractor system is comprised of a tubular member, such as
a cannula, and a retractor member. In an embodiment, the retractor
member may be ring shaped. The retractor member preferably may have
an opening therethrough for receiving the cannula. An engaging
member associated with the retractor member may be provided for
rotatably engaging the cannula. In one embodiment, the cannula may
have external threads disposed on at least a portion thereof that
are rotatably and releaseably engaged with the engaging member and
allows the degree or amount of tissue retraction to be adjusted.
The cannula may be configured to be used with and secured to a
handle to facilitate using the retractor system.
[0024] In accordance with one embodiment, the tubular member
preferably has threads and the engaging member of the retractor
member engages the threads on the tubular member to adjust the
position of the retractor member along the axial length of the
tubular member. The engaging member may be disposed in a bore in
the retractor member that extends from the retractor member's outer
surface to and in communication with the opening in the retractor
member which receives the tubular member.
[0025] In an embodiment, the engaging member may have a blunted tip
protruding at least partially into the opening of the retractor
member for engaging the external threads of the tubular member. In
another embodiment, the engaging member may comprise a screw and
the retractor member may have a threaded hole communicating with
the opening of the retractor member for receiving the tubular
member. The screw preferably is disposed in the threaded opening.
In yet another embodiment, the engaging member comprises threads
disposed on the retractor member adjacent the opening for receiving
the tubular member, and the threads of the retractor member are
engageable with the threads of the tubular member. In another
embodiment, the engaging member is a pin.
[0026] In one embodiment, the tubular member is a cannula. In
another embodiment, the retractor member is shaped substantially
like a ring. The retractor member may have at least one hole
configured to be engaged by at least part of a surgical instrument
or tool for manipulating the retractor member.
[0027] A cheek retractor system is provided which may comprise a
cannula having threads disposed on at least a portion of the
cannula, a retractor member having an opening therethrough for
receiving the cannula, and an engaging member associated with the
retractor member. The engaging member may rotatably engage the
cannula. In one embodiment, the cannula comprises a distal end and
a proximal end. A window may be provided at the proximal end of the
cannula. The window may be used for facilitating observation and/or
irrigation of the surgical site.
[0028] In one embodiment, the retractor member has a top surface, a
bottom surface, and a side surface. The retractor member may
further comprise at least one hole extending at least partially
through the side surface for engaging part of a surgical instrument
or tool used to manipulate the retractor member. In another
embodiment, at least two such holes may be provided for engaging a
surgical instrument or tool. A hole extending from the top surface
to the bottom surface of the retractor member may also be provided
for manipulating the retractor member.
[0029] A system for retracting tissue is provided comprising a
cannula having an external surface and an axial length. At least a
portion of the cannula may have external circumferential threads. A
retractor member may be included in the system and have an opening
configured to receive the cannula therethrough, and an engaging
member associated with and protruding at least partially into the
opening for engaging the threads on the cannula. The retractor
member may be adjustable along the axial length of the cannula.
[0030] A handle may also be provided with the system which is
configured to releasably secure the cannula to the handle. The
handle may have a retractable slider pin for securing the cannula
to the handle. The cannula may have a circumferential groove
configured and adapted to engage the slider pin. In one embodiment,
the cannula may be capable of being rotated while being secured to
the handle. In another embodiment, the groove prevents the cannula
from moving axially along its longitudinal length while the pin is
engaged with the groove.
[0031] A method of retracting tissue for a surgical procedure is
provided comprising the steps of: providing a cannula having a
distal end and a proximal end; providing a retractor member having
an opening therethrough for receiving the cannula, the retractor
member having an engaging member for engaging the cannula;
inserting the cannula through a first bodily opening; inserting the
retractor member through a second bodily opening; guiding the
distal end cannula into the opening of the retractor; and rotating
the cannula or the retractor member to engage the retractor member
and the cannula. The tissue may be adjustably withdrawn from the
distal end of the cannula. In one embodiment, the retractor member
and the cannula are rotatably engaged. In another embodiment, the
method further comprises the cannula having an external surface
with circumferential threads disposed on at least a portion of the
external surface and the retractor member further comprises threads
disposed on a surface of the retractor member surrounding the
opening for receiving the cannula. In one embodiment, the cannula
is rotated to threadably engage the retractor member and the
cannula. In another embodiment, the retractor member is rotated to
threadably engage the retractor member and the cannula. In another
embodiment, the first bodily opening is an incision in the tissue
of a patient and the second bodily opening is a second incision in
the tissue of a patient. In yet another embodiment, the first
bodily opening is an incision in the tissue of a patient and the
second bodily opening is the mouth of a patient.
[0032] A retractor kit is also provided comprising: a cannula
having external threads on at least a portion thereof and a
retractor member having an opening configured and adapted to
receive the cannula. The retractor member may have an engaging
member that is engageable with the external threads of the cannula.
The kit may also include a handle having a grasping portion and a
handle lock assembly for holding the cannula. Rotation of the
tubular member or the retractor member rotatably engages the
retractor with the tubular member. An obturator may also be
provided in one embodiment that is configured and adapted to be
inserted into the cannula.
[0033] It will be appreciated that the tissue retractor is
particularly useful for maxillofacial surgical procedures. However,
use of the tissue retractor is not limited to maxillofacial surgery
alone and it may be used with and in any type of medical or dental
procedure where it is desirable to releaseably attach medical or
dental instruments to a handle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] The features and advantages of the present invention will
become more readily apparent from the following detailed
description of the invention in which like elements are labeled
similarly and in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of the handle of the present
invention;
[0036] FIG. 2A is a side elevation view of the handle lock assembly
of the handle of FIG. 1 shown with the handle release removed;
[0037] FIG. 2B is a bottom plan view of the handle lock assembly of
the handle of FIG. 1 shown with the handle release removed;
[0038] FIG. 2C is an isometric view of the handle lock assembly of
the handle of FIG. 1 shown with the handle release removed;
[0039] FIG. 2D is a plan view of the handle slider of the handle
lock assembly of the handle of FIG. 1;
[0040] FIG. 2E is a view of the slider pin of the handle lock
assembly of the handle of FIG. 1;
[0041] FIG. 2F is an isometric view of the handle release of the
handle lock assembly of the handle of FIG. 1;
[0042] FIG. 2G is a top cross-sectional view of the handle lock
assembly of the handle of FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a cannula which may be used
interchangeably with the handle 1 of FIG. 1;
[0044] FIG. 3B is a 90 degree rotated plan view of the cannula of
FIG. 3A;
[0045] FIG. 4A is a top plan view of a soft tissue C-retractor
which may be used with the handle of FIG. 1 shown with the sliding
C-retractor releases partially removed;
[0046] FIG. 4B is a side elevation view of a soft tissue
C-retractor which may be used with the handle of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 4C is an isometric view of a soft tissue C-retractor
which may be used with the handle of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 5 illustrates the cannula of FIGS. 3A & 3B with an
inserted obturator which may be used with the handle of FIG. 1;
[0049] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the handle of FIG. 1 with
an inserted cannula and obturator,
[0050] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of a tissue retractor member
which may be used with a cannula that may be used interchangeably
with the handle of FIG. 1;
[0051] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional top view of the tissue retractor
member of FIG. 7;
[0052] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the tissue
retractor member of FIG. 7;
[0053] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of the tissue retractor member
of FIG. 7;
[0054] FIG. 11 is a side view of a screw that may be used with the
tissue retractor member of FIG. 7;
[0055] FIG. 12 is an end view of the screw of FIG. 11;
[0056] FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the tissue
retractor member of FIG. 7 showing a pin or screw that may be used
with the retractor;
[0057] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of a cannula that may
be used with the tissue retractor member of FIG. 7;
[0058] FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of a cannula that may be
used with the tissue retractor member of FIG. 7;
[0059] FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional top view of a tissue
retractor member having a threaded opening;
[0060] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of the tissue
retractor member of FIG. 16;
[0061] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional partial side view of the
threads of the tissue retractor member of FIG. 16;
[0062] FIG. 19 is a isometric view of the tissue retractor member
of FIG. 16; and
[0063] FIG. 20 is a side elevation view showing a tissue retractor
member installed on the cannula of FIG. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0064] Referring to FIG. 1, the handle 1 is depicted in one
embodiment as including a handle lock assembly 2 and a grasping
portion 3. Handle lock assembly 2 may include a transition portion
4 connected to grasping portion 3 as shown; however, lock assembly
2 may be attached directly to grasping portion 3 with minimal or no
transition depending on the shape and design of the handle 1
desired. It will further be readily apparent that the shape of the
grasping portion 3 is a matter of ergonomic design choice and is
not limited to the embodiment shown. Furthermore, grasping portion
3 may be formed of one or more pieces secured together in any
manner commonly used in the art (e.g., welding, set screws, etc.)
and may be either solid or hollow. It will also be appreciated that
the size, shape, and position of the lock assembly 2 on the
grasping portion 3 is a matter of design choice and is similarly
not limited to the preferred embodiment shown.
[0065] FIGS. 2A-2G depict the handle lock assembly 2 of the handle
1 in more detail (for clarity, the same numerical designations are
used for same parts in every figure contained herein). Referring to
FIG. 2A, the handle lock assembly 2 comprises a body 7, a
retractable slider pin 5, and a handle slider 6 which is slidably
mounted within a cavity provided in body 7. Preferably, handle
slider 6 is a rectangular or square block in which various recesses
have been made to accommodate other components of the handle lock
assembly 2 (best seen in FIG. 2D). Pin 5 (FIG. 2E) is rigidly
connected to handle slider 6, preferably by press fitting the pin
into recess 40 provided in slider 6 (FIG. 2D). Alternatively, the
pin S may be attached to the handle slider 6 in any manner commonly
known in the art, and may in fact be an integral part of the slider
6 formed during manufacture of the slider. Pin 5 as shown
preferably has rounded edges to facilitate engaging the
indentations provided in surgical instruments as will be described
below.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 1 and best seen in FIGS. 2F & 2G, a
sliding handle release 9 is provided in the preferred embodiment
shown which is U-shaped and wraps around the bottom of the handle
lock assembly body 7. Handle release 9 has a base 47 with sidewalls
48 projecting upwards and connected to the base. In one embodiment
shown, handle release 9 has a flattened surface 45 which mates with
and slides on a flat landing 44 (FIG. 2B) formed or machined on the
body 7 of the handle lock assembly 2. Handle release 9 may be
attached to each side of the handle slider 6 in any number of ways
commonly used in the art. For example, the handle release 9 may be
attached to the handle slider 6 with press-fit dowel pegs 10 as
shown or with set screws (not shown) which fit into recesses 41
provided in the handle slider 6 (FIG. 2D) and pass through openings
46 in each side of the handle release 9. Preferably, the handle
release 9 also has a ribbed or other non-slip surface 50 which will
allow the surgeon to securely grip the release. A flange 51 also
may be provided to assist gripping and retracting handle release 9.
Although handle release 9 is depicted as U-shaped, the handle
release is not limited to this embodiment and any shape or number
of handle releases may be employed, the shape and number being a
matter of ergonomic and/or design preference.
[0067] The handle lock assembly body 7 of handle lock assembly 2
may further contain an opening 8, preferably circular as depicted,
extending completely through the body from the top 11 to the bottom
12 (FIGS. 2A and 2C). Retractable slider pin 5 protrudes into
opening 8 in the body 7 through a side window 13 formed or cut into
the side of the opening (best seen in FIG. 2C). This position is
referred to as the "extended" position of the retractable slider
pin 5.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 2C, the body 7 of the handle lock assembly
2 in one embodiment contains a transition portion 4 as discussed
above and a handle attachment end 15 for connecting the handle lock
assembly 2 to the grasping portion 3 (see also FIG. 1). Preferably,
the attachment end 15 may be configured for welding to the grasping
portion 3 as depicted, but is not limited in that regard. Thus, the
handle lock assembly 2 may be connected to grasping portion 3 in
any suitable manner commonly known in the art including
semi-permanent connections such as threading the lock assembly to
the handle grasping portion, the use of screws, fasteners, etc.
Preferably, the attachment end 15 comprises a tapered cylindrical
end designed to be inserted into a hollow handle grasping portion 3
which may be permanently connected to the handle lock assembly 2 by
welding. As explained above, the handle lock assembly 2 may be
designed with a minimal or no transition portion 4 of any type, the
transition portion being strictly a matter of design choice.
Moreover, enumerable possible shapes for the body 7 of handle lock
assembly 2 and accompanying means of attaching the body to the
grasping portion 3 are possible as will be evident without
departing from the invention described herein; the shape and
attachment means being a matter of design choice.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 2A, the gripping portion 3 may be angularly
displaced from the plane of top 11 of the handle lock assembly body
7 as measured by an angle .theta. between the top 11 and a
longitudinal centerline axis X-X drawn through the transition
portion 4 (see FIG. 2B). Angle .theta. is preferably 0 degrees to
90 degrees, most preferably about 30 degrees. However, it will be
readily apparent that angle .theta. may be varied to whatever angle
is desired and necessary depending upon the particular intended
surgical application and the configuration of the body 7,
transition portion 4, and grasping portion 3 of the handle 1.
[0070] In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, biasing members,
which in this embodiment comprise springs 14, are provided within
the handle lock assembly body 7 to hold the handle slider with
retractable slider pin 5 in the "extended" position wherein the pin
protrudes into the circular opening 8. The springs 14 may be
confined on one end within recesses 15 (best seen in FIG. 2D) made
in the handle slider 6. The other end of the springs 14 may contact
the interior wall of the handle lock assembly body 7 located
opposite the recesses 15.
[0071] The surgeon operates the handle lock assembly 2 by moving
the handle release 9 in a direction which retracts the pin 5 from
the circular opening 8 against the force of the springs 14. This
position is referred to as the "retracted" position of the
retractable slider pin 5. When the surgeon releases the handle
release 9, the retractable slider pin 5 is automatically returned
to its initial "extended" position (i.e., protruding into circular
opening 8) by the springs 14. It will be appreciated that the
present invention may be constructed with other forms of biasing
members and with only one spring or any number of springs, the
number and type of biasing members being strictly a matter of
design choice.
[0072] Although helical springs are depicted, it will further be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not
limited with regard to the style, size, or spring force constant
(k) of the spring or springs that are used which will depend on the
particular intended application. For example, leaf springs, torsion
springs, cantilevered bending members, and other biasing members
may be used. A spring force (k) should be selected which is
sufficient to positively hold the retractable slider pin 5 in the
"extended" position described above (i.e., the pin extending into
the circular opening 8) to securely hold the cannula or other
surgical instrument in the handle, while at the same time not being
so great that it would be unduly difficult for the surgeon to
retract the pin to the "retracted" position for changing or
rotating the cannula or other surgical instrument. The springs 14
may be made of any suitable material commonly used for such
members, and for the intended application of the device shown
should be suitable for a surgical device. It should also be noted
that the design of the recesses 15 provided in the handle slider 6
maybe varied in any number of ways to accommodate the specific
number, size, and style of biasing members employed. Alternatively,
the springs 14 may engaged with the handle slider 6 or body 7 by
other means commonly known in the art with and without the use of
any recesses 15 whatsoever. For example, the body 7 may contain the
recesses or other means to hold the springs 14.
[0073] The operation of the handle will be further understood by
reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B which depict a cannula that may be
used with the invention. Cannula 16 is a hollow tube-like structure
that has a circular cross section comprising a body portion 17 and
a head portion 18. In one embodiment, an inclined ramp portion 19
is provided which transitions the preferably smaller diameter body
portion 17 to the larger diameter head portion 18. The shape of the
ramp portion 19 causes the retractable slider pin 5 to
automatically retract when the surgeon pushes the cannula 16
through the circular opening 8 of the handle lock assembly 2, the
body portion 17 of the cannula being inserted first through the
circular opening 8. This conveniently allows the cannula 16 to be
inserted into the handle lock assembly 2 without the surgeon having
to use the handle release 9. However, it should be noted that no
ramp portion 19 is necessary with the present invention which is
not limited in that regard. Accordingly, the body portion 17 and
the head portion 18 may be of the same diameter and the surgeon
would use the handle release 9 to insert the cannula 16 into the
handle lock assembly 2, as explained more fully below, and then
release the handle release to lock the cannula into position.
[0074] Still referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the cannula, or other
surgical instrument designed to be used with the handle 1 may be
provided with locking indentations 20. The indentations 20 may be
provided around the circumference of the head portion 18 as shown
to mate with the retractable slider pin 5 of the handle lock
assembly (FIG. 2A). The shape and size of the locking indentations
20 may vary and are configured to mate with the retractable slider
pin 5. In operation, the retractable slider pin 5 engages one of
the locking indentations 20 when the cannula 16 is in position
after it has been inserted through the circular opening 8 of the
handle lock assembly 2 (FIG. 2A). Preferably, the retractable
slider pin 5 mates with the indentations 20 in a manner so that the
cannula 16 is positively locked in the handle 1 and cannot be
inadvertently dislodged or withdrawn. Preferably, in order to
remove or rotate the cannula, or other surgical instruments that
may be used, the surgeon takes the positive step of using the
handle release 9 to first retract the retractable slider pin 5. A
knob 22 is formed on the end of head portion 18 of the cannula 16
and provides a structure for the surgeon to grasp while inserting
or rotating the cannula. Preferably, the knob 22 has a knurled or
similar non-slip surface 52.
[0075] Operation of the handle 1 of the present invention is best
described by reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3A. The surgeon first
selects the proper size cannula 16 for the particular surgical
procedure involved. Cannula 16 having ramp portion 19 is inserted
in the circular opening 8 in the handle lock assembly 2 of handle 1
until the retractable slider pin 5 engages one of the locking
indentations 20 of the cannula, thereby locking the cannula in the
handle. In this scenario, the ramp portion 19 causes pin 5 to
automatically retract as described above by inserting the cannula
into the handle 1. Alternatively, if a cannula 16 is used that does
not have a ramp portion 19 (i.e., the diameter of the cannula body
portion 17 equals the diameter of the head portion 18), the surgeon
preferably first moves the sliding handle release 9 to retract pin
5 before inserting the cannula in the handle 2. After the cannula
16 is inserted in the handle 1, handle release 9 is released by the
surgeon so that pin 5 engages one of the locking indentations 20
thereby locking the cannula into the handle. This latter procedure
of using the handle release 9 to retract pin 5 while inserting a
cannula 16 may also be used with a cannula that has a ramp portion
19. Depending on the circumferential alignment of the retractable
slider pin 5 with the locking indentations 20 when the cannula is
inserted into the handle 1, it may be necessary to turn knob 22 on
the head portion 18 of the cannula 16 to rotate the cannula until
the pin and one indentation properly align and are engaged.
[0076] To remove cannula 16 from the handle 1, the surgeon moves
the sliding handle release 9 to retract pin 5 and then withdraws
the cannula. The handle release 9 may also be used in this same
fashion to rotate a cannula 16 while it is inserted in the handle 1
if the surgeon prefers a different rotational position for the
cannula.
[0077] The cannula 16 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B
may preferably be provided with accessory depressions 21 which
allow other surgical devices to be attached to the cannula which
may utilize projections designed to mate with the depressions 21,
thereby locking the devices to the cannula. One such device is a
soft tissue retractor, such as cheek C-retractor 49 as shown in
FIGS. 4A-4C, which is commonly used in maxillofacial surgery. The
cheek retractor is often used for surgery involving the mandible or
jawbone near the ear. In FIG. 4A, the cheek retractor 49 in one
embodiment includes locking end portion 29 on one end of the
C-retractor and a forked end portion 30 on the opposite end.
Locking end portion 29 further comprises a retractable slider
projection 31, a projection-carrying slider 32, at least one
biasing member which preferably is a spring 33 as shown, and
press-fit dowel pegs 34. An opening 36, preferably circular or
oval, is also provided in locking end portion 29 along with an open
keyway 35, preferably rectangular. Both opening 36 and keyway 35
extend completely through the locking portion 29. Also preferably,
the open keyway 35 intersects the opening 36 to form a single
contiguous opening wherein sits the retractable slider projection
31, projection-carrying slider 32, and spring 33. The projection 31
may be attached to the slider 32 in any manner commonly known in
the art, and may in fact be an integral part of the slider formed
during manufacture of the slider.
[0078] Still referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, the retractable slider
projection 31 is held in an "extended" position by the spring 33
whereby the projection protrudes into opening 36. One end of spring
33 rests in a recess 43 provided in the rear of projection-carrying
slider 32 while the other end of the spring contacts the back wall
of keyway 35. The spring force of spring 33 should be selected to
provide sufficient force to hold projection 31 into the "extended"
position, while at the same time the force should not be so great
that it would be unduly difficult for the surgeon to retract the
projection. At least one groove or channel 42 may be provided in
one or both sides of projection-carrying slider 32 which is closed
at the rear near the spring 33. Press-fit dowel pegs 34 may be
furnished which ride in the groove or grooves 42 and pass through
openings 53 in the sides of the locking end portion 29.
Alternatively, set screws or other means well known in the art may
be used in lieu of dowel pegs 34. The dowel pegs 34 serve to hold
the projection-carrying slider 32 in the locking end portion 29 of
the C-retractor 49 by contacting the closed end of grooves 42 to
prevent the spring 33 from pushing the projection-carrying slider
into opening 36.
[0079] As best seen in FIGS. 4B and 4C, preferably two sliding
C-retractor releases 38 may be provided for retracting slider
projection 31 against the force of spring 33 to a "retracted"
position whereby the projection is withdrawn from opening 36 into
keyway 35. The retractor releases are attached to the top and
bottom of projection-carrying slider 32 by an means commonly known
in the art and may in fact be an integral part of the slider 32
formed during the manufacture of the slider. When the releases 38
are in place, the releases serve as a closure for the top and
bottom of keyway 35. The retractor releases 38 preferably have a
ribbed or other non-slip surface 54 which may be readily gripped by
the surgeon. The retractor releases 38 may also be contoured and
shaped to assist a surgeon in retracting the slider projection
31.
[0080] The forked end portion 30 of the C-retractor 49 includes two
prongs 39; preferably, the prongs are curved away from the
C-retractor 49 as shown. Alternatively, the shape of prongs 39 may
be straight.
[0081] Use of the cheek C-retractor 49 can best be explained by
reference to FIGS. 3A and 4A-4C. After the cannula 16 of handle 1
has been inserted through a patient's cheek, the forked end portion
is inserted through a patient's mouth such that the body portion 17
of the cannula (inside the mouth) becomes situated between the two
prongs 39. The locking end portion 29 is then affixed to the handle
1 (which is outside the patient's mouth) by using the sliding
retractor releases 38 to retract projection 31, slipping opening 36
of the C-retractor 49 over knob 22 on the back of the cannula head
portion 18 until the retractable slider projection 31 of the
C-retractor aligns with one of the accessory depressions 21 of the
cannula, and then releasing the releases 38 to engage the
projection in one of the accessory depressions. The C-retractor is
thereby secured to the handle 1. The slider projection 31 may also
be retracted while the C-retractor 49 remains in position on the
handle 1 in order to rotate the C-retractor to a number of
positions around and in relation to the handle that may be desired
by the surgeon.
[0082] Numerous surgical instruments can also be inserted and used
through the cannula 16. Referring to FIG. 5, for example, an
obturator 55 which is commonly used in minimally invasive surgical
procedures is shown as being inserted in the cannula 16. The
obturator in the embodiment depicted consists of a solid round
shaft 23 (partially visible at the distal end of the cannula body
portion 17) with a conically pointed tip 24 at one end and an
enlarged, round head 25 at the opposite end. The shaft 23 is
rigidly attached to head 25 in any manner commonly known in the
art, such as by welding, set screws, threaded attachment, etc. In
the embodiment shown, the obturator head 25 has at least one tab 26
which is designed to mate with at least one slot 27 provided in the
knob 22 of cannula 16. This prevents the obturator 55 from rotating
once it has been inserted through the cannula 16. Drill guides (not
shown) which are also commonly employed in surgery for fracture
fixation may also be used with the cannula 16 of handle 1. These
drill guides may be designed to be compatible for use with cannula
16 and may also include at least one tab on a enlarged, round head
like the obturator 55 which mates with at least one slot 27
provided in the knob 22 of the cannula.
[0083] FIG. 6 depicts a fully assembled handle 1 with a cannula 16
inserted and locked in place by the handle lock assembly 2. An
obturator 55 is shown inserted in the handle 1 with its pointed tip
24 protruding from the end of the cannula 16 and the obturator's
enlarged, round head 25 visible at the opposite end of the
cannula.
[0084] A tissue retractor system comprising a tubular member,
preferably a cannula, with a mating tissue retractor member that is
rotatably and releasably engageable with the cannula is shown in
FIGS. 7-20. The retractor member may be used, for example, as a
cheek retractor which is commonly employed in maxillofacial
surgical procedures to hold the soft cheek tissue away from an
operative site on the jaw bone where drilling, implantation of bone
screws, and/or other procedures are occurring. In the embodiment
shown in the foregoing referenced drawings, the retractor member
and cannula may be used with the handle 1 disclosed herein;
however, use of the retractor member and cannula are not limited in
this regard and the retractor member and cannula may be used with
handles of other design.
[0085] Referring to FIGS. 7-10, a retractor member 71, having an
outer periphery that is preferably disk-like or circular in shape,
has a top surface 76, a bottom surface 77, and side surface 78.
Other shapes may also be used for the retractor member. An opening
75, also preferably circular in shape and preferably located near
the center of the retractor member 71, extends through the
retractor member 71 from the top surface 76 to the bottom surface
77 for receiving a cannula, such as, for example, the cannula 90
shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. The overall shape of the retractor member
71 is preferably ring shaped. A chamfer 79 (best seen in FIG. 9)
may be provided at the transition from the top surface 76 and
bottom surface 77 of the retractor member 71 to the central opening
75. The size of the opening 75 is preferably cooperatively sized
with a cannula 90 to be used with and inserted through the
retractor member 71, as explained in detail below.
[0086] In one embodiment, a ring-shaped retractor member 71 has an
outer diameter of about 17 mm with an opening 75 of about 7 mm in
diameter.
[0087] One or more holes may be provided in the retractor member 71
to allow a surgeon to hold the retractor member 71 with a surgical
instrument including, but not limited to forceps, hooks, or
surgical pliers. In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-10, holes 72
may be provided through the side surface 78 of the retractor member
71 to receive the two prongs of a forceps (not shown), for example,
to hold the retractor member 71. Preferably, at least two holes 72
are provided. The holes 72 may extend partially through the
retractor member 71, as shown in FIG. 8, without intersecting the
central opening 75. Alternatively, the holes 72 may be deep enough
to intersect the opening 75.
[0088] A hole 74 may also be provided that passes from the top
surface 76 to the bottom surface 77 of the retractor member 71, as
shown, for assisting with the insertion and retrieval of the
retractor member from a patient. For example, a hook may be
inserted in hole 74 to prevent the retractor member from rotating
while the ring is threaded onto the cannula 90. A hook may also be
used in hole 74 to retrieve the retractor member 71. Alternatively,
a suture may be fastened through hole 74 to assist with retrieving
the retractor member 71. The uses for the foregoing holes are
described below.
[0089] One embodiment of a cannula 90 that may be used with the
retractor member 71 is shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. Cannula 90
comprises a body portion 91 and a head portion 97. In one
embodiment, the cannula 90 is provided with an inclined ramp
portion 95 (whose function is described above in connection with
FIGS. 3A and 3B) which transitions the preferably smaller diameter
body portion 91 to the preferably larger diameter head portion 18.
However, it will be appreciated that a ramp portion 95 is not
necessary for operation of the retractor member 71 and cannula 90,
and hence need not be provided.
[0090] The cannula 90 may preferably be secured to the handle 1 via
a retractable slider pin 5 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2E)
associated with the handle 1 and that engages the cannula. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the head portion 97 of the
cannula 90 includes a circumferential channel or groove 98 to
engage a slider pin 5 (not visible in FIGS. 7-10) and to secure the
cannula 90 to the handle 1. The groove 98 is configured and adapted
with the pin 5 to allow the cannula 90 to be rotated with the
cannula inserted in the handle 1, but also to preferably prevent
the cannula from moving axially with respect to the handle 1. The
groove 98 is preferably formed in an enlarged boss or portion 105
provided towards the proximal end 110 of the cannula 90.
[0091] It should be noted that many types of design approaches may
be used to secure a cannula to a handle, and the handle and/or
cannula is not limited to the use of retractable slider pins in
that regard.
[0092] The cannula 90 has a longitudinal internal passage 96 that
extends from a proximal end 110 (closest to the surgeon) to a
distal end 93 (farthest from the surgeon and nearest the surgical
site). The longitudinal passage 96 defines a longitudinal axis
through the cannula 90. Passage 96 is preferably circular in
cross-sectional shape and allows various surgical instruments
(e.g., obturators, drill bits, etc.) and implants (e.g., bone
screws, etc.) to be inserted through and used with the cannula
90.
[0093] The proximal end 110 of the cannula 90 may have a knob 112.
Knob 112, which may be provided with a textured or knurled surface
(best seen in FIG. 15) to facilitate grasping by the surgeon, may
be used to rotate the cannula 90 as explained below.
[0094] The proximal end 110 of the cannula 90 may have a snap ring
99 (see FIG. 14) for securing other surgical instruments, such as
an obturator, drill guide, or drill, for example, to the cannula
90.
[0095] The distal end 93 of the cannula 90 may have a window 94
that is used to observe and/or irrigate the surgical site while
drilling holes and installing screws in the bone.
[0096] At least part of the body portion 91 of the cannula 90
preferably has external threads 92 for rotatably and releasably
engaging an engaging member 80 associated with the opening 75 of
the retractor member 71. The engaging member 80 preferably
rotatably and releaseably engages the cannula 90. The threads 92
are preferably rounded, but are not limited in that regard. The
external threads 92 may be located anywhere along the length of the
cannula and is a matter of design choice. Accordingly, the
invention is not limited in that regard.
[0097] The engaging member 80 may be a pin, screw, or other
structure or member associated with the retractor member 71 that
provides threadable engagement between the threads 92 of the
cannula 90 and the retractor member 71. Preferably, the engaging
member is a ball tip screw 80 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. A
threaded hole 73 (see, e.g., FIGS. 8, 9, and 13) is provided in the
side surface 78 of the retractor member 71 to receive the ball tip
screw 80. The screw 80 has external threads 84 for engaging the
threaded hole 73 of the retractor member 71. Threaded hole 75
extends completely through the side surface 78 of the retractor
member 1 and communicates with the central opening 75. Screw 80 has
a conical end 82 terminating in a preferably rounded tip 83 for
engaging the preferably rounded threads 92 of the cannula 90. The
tip 83 of screw 80 acts as the mating thread for the threads 92 of
the cannula 90. Accordingly, the screw 80 is preferably positioned
in the threaded hole 73 so that the tip 83 of the screw protrudes
into the central opening 75 of the retractor member 71 a sufficient
amount to positively engage the threads 92 of the cannula 90.
During the manufacturing of the retractor member 71, after screw 80
has been inserted to the desired depth in hole 73, the screw is
preferably affixed permanently to the retractor member 71 to hold
its position. Fabrication methods such as spot or tack welding,
soldering, stacking, bonding, shrink fitting, etc. may be used to
fix the screw 80 in position.
[0098] It should be noted that neither the engaging member, nor
hole 75 need necessarily be threaded, and the invention is not
limited in that regard. Accordingly, other embodiments may be used.
For example, hole 75 could be unthreaded and an unthreaded pin or
similar member could be used.
[0099] It should further be noted that the engaging member may be
formed as an integral part of the retractor member. For example, in
the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16-19, internal threads 121 may be
formed in the central opening 122 of the retractor member 71 for
engaging the threads 92 of the cannula 90, thereby eliminating the
need for a threaded hole 73 and a separate engaging member such a
ball tip screw or pin.
[0100] Referring again to FIGS. 11 and 12, the ball tip screw 80
has a tooling end 85 opposite the conical end 82 for engaging a
screwdriver or other driver to insert the screw into the threaded
hole 73 of the retractor member 71. A tool engagement recess, such
as slot 81 as shown, is provided to engage the driver. Although a
slot 81 is preferably provided, the tool engagement recess may be
some other shape such as, for example, a phillips head recess, hex
socket, etc.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 15, the cannula 90 and retractor member 71
may be used with an obturator 100 that has been inserted in the
cannula 90. Such an obturator 100 preferably has conical end 101
with a blunt tip 114 (shown near distal end 93 of the cannula) that
extends beyond the end of the cannula 90 when the obturator is
fully inserted in the cannula. The obturator 100 may have a knob
113, which may be similar to the knob 112 of the cannula 90. The
obturator 100 may be rotationally fixable in position in relation
to the cannula 90 through a locking mechanism, such as the tab 103
and slot 104 arrangement as shown. With this arrangement, the
cannula 90 may be rotated by turning the obturator knob 113.
[0102] In a maxillofacial surgical procedure, the retractor member
system may be operated by first inserting the cannula 90/obturator
100 combination (shown in FIG. 15) through a first bodily opening,
such as an incision that has already been made through the cheek or
other part of a patient. With the cannula 90/obturator 100
inserted, the retractor member 71, preferably held by a forceps,
surgical pliers, or other tool, may be inserted through a second or
other bodily opening and moved toward the cannula 90/obturator 100.
For example, the retractor member 71 may be is inserted
intra-orally through the open mouth of the patient. Alternatively,
the retractor member 71 may be inserted through an opening or
portal created by a second incision in the patient. Next, the
central opening 75 of the retractor member 71 (through which ball
tip screw 80 slightly protrudes) is aligned with and slid over the
distal end 93 of the cannula 90/obturator 100 until resistance is
met by the threaded portion 92 of the cannula 90. The
cannula/obturator is then rotated via knobs 112 and/or 113, thereby
engaging the retractor member 71 with the cannula 90. The cannula
90/obturator 100 is rotated until the surgeon achieves the desired
degree of cheek retraction so that the cheek does not interfere
with the surgical site procedures, such as drilling holes and
inserting screws into the bone. FIG. 20 depicts the cannula
90/obturator 100 with the retractor member engaged thereon.
[0103] It should be noted that in lieu of rotating the cannula
90/obturator 100 to engage the retractor member 71, the
cannula/obturator may be held stationary and the retractor member
may be rotated to engage the retractor member with the cannula.
Preferably, the cannula 90/obturator 100 is rotated and the
retractor member 71 remains substantially stationary. Also
preferably, the retractor member 71 is held.
[0104] With the cannula 90 remaining in place and near the surgical
site on the bone, the obturator 100 may be withdrawn. Other
surgical instruments and implants, such as drills and bone screws
for example, may be inserted and used through the cannula 90 to
complete the surgical procedure.
[0105] After the surgical procedure is completed, the retractor
member 71 is once again grasped with a forceps or surgical pliers,
and the cannula 90 is rotated to unscrew and remove the retractor
member 71 from the cannula. The retractor member 71 is then
retrieved from the patient through the second bodily opening.
[0106] Because either the retractor member or the cannula may be
rotated to thread the retractor member onto the cannula, it will be
apparent that a retractor member of any desired shape may be used.
Accordingly, although a circular or ring-shaped retractor member is
preferred, the retractor member may be configured to suite a
particular type of surgical procedure.
[0107] It should be noted that although a maxillofacial surgical
procedure has been described above, the retractor system may be
used in any type of surgical procedure where tissue retraction is
desired.
[0108] The handle including all of the forgoing components
described (i.e., the cannula, obturator, drill guides, C-retractor,
retractor member, etc.) may be constructed of any material suitable
for use in surgical procedures. For example, the handle and its
components may preferably be made of stainless steel which is
commonly used; however, the invention is not limited in the type of
materials employed which would be a matter of design choice.
[0109] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the
details of the handle and all of the foregoing components described
herein are a matter of design choice, and that the invention is not
limited to the particular embodiments or those features described.
Accordingly, numerous modifications may be made to the handle and
its components without departing from the spirit of the invention
and scope of the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *