Driver Bit for the Removal of a Stripped Pedicle Screw (20110225, Dr. David Nuckley)

Removal of Stripped Pedicle Screws

Pedicle screw fixation is used for spinal stability in patients with spinal fractures, degeneration, or scoliotic deformity, but the heads often become stripped due to the combination of strong bone and the desire to obtain the greatest insertional torque possible. A device has been designed that will enable the removal of pedicle screws with stripped heads by taking advantage of the existing screw tulip to engage and remove the screw. There is a need for such a device because currently existing tools are not able to advance or remove the screw once the head has been stripped.

Pedicle Screw Removal that does not Increase Surgical Exposure Time

Current methods of stripped pedicle screw removal use an apparatus to try and provide a reliable amount of torque to the screw to try to advance or remove the screw. A problem with this technique is that it greatly enhances surgical exposure time. The new device provides a method to advance or remove the screws completely and is a safer and more effective method. This device also has potential applications in spinal fusion surgery and spinal reconstruction surgery.

BENEFITS AND FEATURES OF DRIVER BIT FOR THE REMOVAL OF A STRIPPED PEDICLE SCREW:

• Allows for advancement or removal of pedicle screws once head has been stripped
• Safer and more effective method compared to current techniques used
• Takes advantage of existing screw tulip in order to engage the screw and enable removal
• Potential application in spinal fusion surgery and spinal reconstruction surgery

Fulfillment Details Licensee will receive rights to practice the intellectual property (patent application) for the purposes of developing and manufacturing a commercial product.

Phase of Development In vitro data and in vivo efficacy data available.