Laser length discrepancy device
US6383149B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 5, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 7, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 5, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/4528
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A simple hand-held length discrepancy device in the form of a pair of laser diodes separated a fixed distance within a console determines the length of a patient's leg after hip replacement surgery. A self-tapping first indication screw is partially inserted within the patient's pelvis prior to surgery, the first laser beam is directed on the screw and the second laser beam is directed on the patient's leg. The location of the second laser beam is recorded by means of a second indelible ink mark or a second drill hole. After surgery, the first and second laser beams are again directed on the first indication screw on the hip and the second mark or drill hole on the leg to determine any change in distance there between.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.