University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a new drill called the Sidewinder Drill for Craniosynostosis – the first of its kind to be specifically designed for endoscopic craniosynostosis procedures.
Description
Craniosynostosis is a condition characterized by the premature fusion of the cranial sutures, leading to abnormal skull growth in children. Endoscopic approaches have become popular for the correction of craniosynostosis, but the tools currently used are not suitable for the limited space available during the procedure and has the potential to damage the surrounding tissue. This novel design pushes the soft tissue away when the drill is advanced through bone, avoiding damage and allowing for procedural work to be completed in multiple directions.
Applications
• Craniosynostosis
Advantages
The Sidewinder Drill is specifically designed for endoscopic craniosynostosis work. It features a contoured shape that matches the curvature of the skull and allows for the use of drill bits in a way that avoids damage to soft tissues. Unlike existing drills, the cutting edge is only in contact with the bone, while the drill nose pushes soft tissues away from the area being drilled.
Invention Readiness
The development status of this invention is currently in the design stage.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2023183067A1
