Patent Publication Number: US-2022218326-A1

Title: Expandable retractor blade assembly

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present application relates to a medical device, and more particularly to a medical device inserted into the body operable in relation to the spine and neighboring tissue. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Retractors are commonly used medical devices, or surgical instruments, which are used to separate the edges of a surgical incision or wound so as to hold back underlying organs and tissue. This is necessary to permit access to body parts under the skin layer. These are typically simple handheld tools that possess a curved or angled blade and are fitted with a handle. Often the blades are located on opposing arms and are separated by a spring or gear. The arms are used to direct the location of the blade. Each blade is a singular member having a set width and length. When in place, the static blades apply pressure within the body to hold back tissue and other organs. 
     A disadvantage of conventional retractors and the corresponding blades is that it is desirable to maintain as minimal of an incision as possible. Blades are generally fixed in width and thickness therefore, the size of the incision and the size of the blade correspond to one another. When within the body it is often desired to have a blade hold back more area of tissue and organs. However, this is not possible unless the incision is increased to facilitate a larger blade. This has obvious disadvantages. 
     Although strides have been made in surgical procedures, shortcomings remain. It is desired that an assembly be provided that allows for the size of the blades to be selectively expanded and retracted within the body so as to maintain minimal incision sizes. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present application to provide an expandable blade for use with retractors in the medical and surgical field. The expandable blade assembly is configured to selectively increase and decrease in width inside the body. A medical professional is able to operate the blade assembly from outside the body. The adjustable width of the blades permit incisions to remain and minimal as possible while maximizing the amount of tissue that can be displaced within the body. 
     It is a further object of the present application that a plurality of blades are aligned in a stacked configuration such that they are oriented in an overlapping manner when closed. When opened, the blades fan out radially in a relatively planar manner. This would allow each arm of a retractor to operate a blade assembly that is expandable in width. One or more contoured areas, such as bends, in the assembly may be used to enhance visibility by more readily holding back internal tissue. 
     Additionally, the blade assembly is configured to be coupled to one or more types of retractors. A gear is used to operate the blades wherein the blades are configured to open and close as a gear is rotated. The blades themselves optionally include gear teeth to engage the gear so as to facilitate operation between the closed and open positions. The particular design of the expandable blade assembly is equally suitable for applications outside the medical industry and may be used in such manners as deemed useful. 
     Ultimately the invention may take many embodiments. In these ways, the present invention overcomes the disadvantages inherent in the prior art. The more important features have thus been outlined in order that the more detailed description that follows may be better understood and to ensure that the present contribution to the art is appreciated. Additional features will be described hereinafter and will form the subject matter of the claims that follow. 
     Many objects of the present application will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views. 
     Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The embodiments are capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the various purposes of the present design. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a front view of an expandable blade assembly according to an embodiment of the present application, aligned in a closed position. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 1  aligned in an open position. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the expandable blade assembly of  FIGS. 1 and 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is an alternate perspective view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 3  without an attachment member and keyed tool. 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 5  in a closed position. 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 6  in an open position. 
         FIG. 8  is a rear view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of the expandable blade assembly of  FIG. 5 . 
     
    
    
     While the embodiments and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 
     In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the embodiments described herein may be oriented in any desired direction. 
     The embodiments and method in accordance with the present application overcomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonly associated with the prior art discussed previously. In particular, the expandable blade assembly of the present application is configured to operate between an open and closed position wherein a plurality of blades are selectively overlapped so as to minimize an overall width. In operation the blades, either simultaneously or individually, may be rotated about an axis to increase the collective width of the plurality of blades when opened. One or more blades may be operated. The movement of each blade may take place along a single plane or in a nonplanar displacement. These and other unique features are discussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
     The embodiments and method will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the assembly may be presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless otherwise described. 
     Referring now to the Figures wherein like reference characters identify corresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout the several views. The following Figures describe embodiments of the present application and its associated features. With reference now to the Figures, embodiments of the present application are herein described. It should be noted that the articles “a”, “an”, and “the”, as used in this specification, include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 and 2  in the drawings, an expandable blade assembly is illustrated. Expandable blade assembly  101  is configured to permit the selective widening and narrowing of the collective width of a plurality of blades which are selectively nestled together in an overlapping manner. Assembly  101  is configured to operate in a closed position and an open position. When in the closed position, a series of blades are overlapped as seen in the front view of  FIG. 1 . The collective width is minimized. When in the open position, a series of blades are pivoted relative to each other so as to expand the collective width as seen in  FIG. 2 . 
     Assembly  101  is configured to nestle together in a closed position and pass through an incision in a body. The minimal width of the closed position allows the incision to remain as minimal as possible. Once inserted, the pivoting blades of assembly  101  may be pivoted into an open position. In this position, the collective width is increased. This benefits a medical professional as a singular blade/blade assembly can expand in width greater than the length of the incision so as to displace or move more tissue of the body compared to a static blade only. Greater visibility is provided to the medical professional all while maintaining a narrower shorter incision. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , assembly  101  includes a first blade  103 , a first pivoting blade  105  and a second pivoting blade  107 . The first pivoting blade  105  pivots about an axis  106  and the second pivoting blade  107  pivots about an axis  108 . The points of rotation (i.e. pivoting) of blades  105  and  107  are at different locations. Each blade  105 / 107  is coupled to blade  103  and permitted to rotate about its respective axis. The rotation of each blade may occur independent of the other or as a collective group of blades  105 / 107 . Rotation of blades  105 / 107  may be done either in opposing directions from the other pivoting blades or in the same direction. 
     To facilitate the overlapping orientation of blades  105 / 107 , each blade  105 / 107  is offset from a front surface  109  of blade  103 . Either blade  105 / 107  may be located adjacent to or closest to front surface  109 . It is important that the blades  105 / 107  overlap at some point. 
     It is understood that the width of blade  103  may be set and any width. In some embodiments blades  105 / 107  do not have to overlap. For example, each blade  105 / 107  may be equal to or less than half the width of blade  103 , such that in a closed position no overlapping occurs and the collective width is no larger than the width of the first blade  103 . In such an embodiment, the offset nature of blades  105 / 107  are not needed. Naturally this decreases the overall achievable width of assembly  101 , however, it is conceivable for operational purposes herein. An advantage of overlapping permits a maximum width when in the open position. It is understood that  FIG. 1  illustrates blades  105 / 107  as extending outward beyond the width of blade  103 . Blade shape has a bearing on overall width in both closed and open positions and the blade shape herein is not meant to be limiting, but merely exemplary in nature. 
     Blades  105 / 107  and first blade  103  are typically relatively thin pieces of material that are hardened into a particular shape. The width of each is considerably larger than the thickness. Blades  105 / 107  pivot along a set plane. As noted above, blades  105 / 107  may share the same plane or may be pivotal along different planes of rotation. Other embodiments may permit nonplanar rotations. 
     In particular with  FIGS. 1 and 2  specifically, assembly  101  includes first blade  103  with blades  105 / 107  coupled thereto in a manner permitting pivoting about different axis. The pivoting blades operate between the closed and open positions so as to collectively increase the width of the entire assembly. Each blade is selectively offset from front surface  109  a set distance. Assembly  101  is coupled to a retractor in operation along an exterior surface, for example upper surface  110  could be feasible. 
     Referring now also to  FIGS. 3-9  in the drawings, views of an expandable blade assembly  201  is illustrated. Assembly  201  is similar in form and function to that of assembly  101  except as herein identified. The functional operation is similar with respect to the pivoting blades and first blade. Similar numbering will be maintained with respect to Assembly  201  as seen with assembly  101  so as to assist in identifying similar components in form and function. 
     Expandable blade assembly  201  is configured to permit the selective widening and narrowing of a collective width of a plurality of blades which are selectively nestled together in an overlapping manner. Assembly  201  is configured to operate between a closed position and an open position. When in the closed position (see  FIG. 6 ), a series of pivoting blades are oriented in front of a first blade in a manner that allows the series of blades as a whole to have a collective width a smaller than when in an open or partially open position (see  FIG. 7 ). The collective width therefore is minimized. The operation and function is similar to that of assembly  101  noted above. 
     Assembly  201  includes a first blade  203 , a first pivoting blade  205 , a second pivoting blade  207 , and a gear  211 . First blade  203  includes a front surface  209  and a rear surface  213  (see  FIG. 4 ). Each of blades  205 / 207  are coupled to first blade  203 , such as at front surface  209 . Gear  211  is coupled to front surface  209  and in threaded communication with blades  205 / 207  so as to facilitate operation between the open position and the closed position. As gear  211  is activated, blades  205 / 207  are selectively pivoted so as to influence the collective width of assembly  201 . 
     Referring now in particular to  FIGS. 6 and 7  in the drawings. Assembly  201  is configured to nestle together in a closed position ( FIG. 6 ) and pass through an incision in a body. The minimal width of the closed position allows the incision to remain as minimal as possible. Once inserted, the pivoting blades of assembly  201  may be pivoted into an open position ( FIG. 7 ). In this position, the collective width is increased. This benefits a medical professional as a singular blade/blade assembly can expand in width greater than the length of the incision so as to displace or move more tissue of the body compared to a static blade only. Greater visibility is provided to the medical professional all while maintaining a narrower shorter incision. 
     The first pivoting blade  205  pivots about an axis  206  and the second pivoting blade  207  pivots about an axis  208 . The points of rotation (i.e. pivoting) of blades  205  and  207  are at different locations on blade  203 . Each blade  205 / 207  is coupled to blade  203  and permitted to rotate about its respective axis. The rotation of each blade may occur independent of the other or as a collective group of blades  205 / 207 . Rotation of blades  205 / 207  may be done either in opposing directions from the other pivoting blades or in the same direction. 
     To facilitate the overlapping orientation of blades  205 / 207 , each blade  205 / 207  is offset from a front surface  209  of blade  203 . Either blade  205 / 207  may be located adjacent to, or closest to, front surface  109 . It is important that the blades  205 / 207  overlap at some point in this embodiment. 
     In some embodiments blades  205 / 207  do not have to overlap. For example, each blade  205 / 207  may be equal to or less than half the width of blade  103 , such that in a closed position no overlapping occurs, and the collective width is no larger than the width of the first blade  203 . In such an embodiment, the offset nature of blades  205 / 207  are not needed. Naturally this decreases the overall achievable width of assembly  201 , however, it is conceivable for operational purposes herein. An advantage of overlapping permits a maximum width when in the open position. It is understood that  FIG. 1  illustrates blades  205 / 207  being confined within the width of blade  203  in an overlapping configuration. It is understood that blade shape has a bearing on overall width in both closed and open positions and the blade shape herein is not meant to be limiting, but merely exemplary in nature. The width of any of blades  205 / 207  may be larger, smaller, or the same as the width of blade  203 . 
     Blades  205 / 207  and first blade  203  are typically relatively thin pieces of material that are hardened into a particular shape. The width of each is considerably larger than the thickness. Blades  205 / 207  pivot along a set plane. As noted above, blades  205 / 207  may share the same plane or may be pivotal along different planes of rotation. Other embodiments may permit nonplanar rotations. 
     Gear  211  is coupled to front surface  209 . In operation, rotation of gear  211  induces movement of blades  205 / 207  between positions. Gear  211  may be aligned in various ways and orientations. As depicted in the Figures, Gear  211  is aligned vertically wherein gear  211  rotates about an axis that is parallel to front surface  209 . An upper mount  215  and a lower mount  217  are used to secure gear  211  in place. Each mount is also secured to blade  203  at surface  209 . Although a single gear  211  is shown, it is understood that one or more gears may be used and aligned in different orientations to permit movement of blades  205 / 207  (i.e. linear or radial movements). 
     Blades  205 / 207  are configured similarly and are shown to have mirrored shape in the Figures. It is understood that blades  205 / 207  may be of similar shape or different shapes as needed. Blades  205 / 207  may be detachable from first blade  203  in some embodiments to permit a user to select a size and blade shape useful for a desired procedure. Blades  205 / 207  have a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to have an engagement member  219 / 221 . Each engagement member is pivotally coupled to blade  203  and rotates about axis  206 / 208  respectively. Each engagement member also includes one or more surface treatments to selectively engage with gear  211 . The surface treatments may be slots, grooves, or a series of teeth. The surface treatments are along an outer surface of the engagement members. As depicted, engagement members  219 / 221  are cylindrical in nature and are also partially smooth on the outer surface to facilitate attachment for the blades  205 / 207 . In operation, as gear  211  rotates, the surface treatments of the engagement members rotated counter-clockwise or clockwise about its respective axis. 
     Assembly  201  also includes an activator tool  222  configured to seat within a portion of gear  211  to facilitate activation or rotation of gear  211 . This is seen clearly in  FIGS. 3, 5, and 9 . An aperture is formed in mount  215  to permit access to a keyed slot  223  in gear  211 . Tool  222  includes a matching keyed protrusion to match that of slot  223 . Tool  222  may be selectively removed at any time. Gear  211  may be configured to latch at select rotational positions so as to maintain the open position of blades  205 / 207 , wherein tool  222  may be removed while assembly  201  is in use. 
     First blade  203  is configured to attach to a retractor tool commonly used in medical procedures, such as surgeries. One or more surfaces of blade  203  may be modified or aligned to facilitate attachment and function. As seen in the Figures, blade  203  may include an upper tab  225  which is angled from front surface  209 . As shown it is orthogonal to front surface  209  but any angle may be used. Blade  203  may be bent over to form upper tab  225 . This is similarly possible and applicable with assembly  101 . An attachment device  227  can then releasably couple to a surface  229  of upper tab  225 . Surface  229  can be any surface but is depicted as an upper surface for clarity purposes. Moreover, attachment device  227  is removed from  FIGS. 5-9  for clarity purposes as well. 
     It should be known as well that blade  203  may further include a lower tab  231  also angled relative to front surface  209 . The angle can be any desired. A purpose of lower tab  231  is to hold the tissue back and allows for increased visualization as a medical professional is looking downward from above. It assists in angling the tissue further rearward away from blades  205 / 207 . Assembly  101  may have a similar lower tab as seen with assembly  201 . 
     The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.