Creating a new tool to help surgeons avoid damaging nerves during spinal surgery
Development of a Multispectral Kerrison Rongeur for Dura and Nerve Root Detection
This study is working on a new tool for spinal surgery that helps doctors see important areas like nerves and protective layers in real-time, making surgeries safer and reducing the chances of complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Briteseed, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11008491 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a specialized surgical instrument called a Kerrison rongeur that includes an optical sensor to detect delicate structures like the dura and nerve roots during spinal surgery. By integrating this sensor, surgeons will be able to visualize these critical areas in real-time, reducing the risk of accidental damage that can lead to complications. The project involves designing a miniaturized optical subsystem that will be incorporated into the rongeur, enhancing its functionality and safety during procedures. The ultimate goal is to improve surgical outcomes and reduce the need for additional surgeries caused by nerve or dura injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing spinal surgery who are at risk of nerve or dura injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing spinal surgery or those with conditions that do not involve the dura or nerve roots may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of nerve and dura damage during spinal surgeries, leading to better patient outcomes and fewer complications.
How similar studies have performed: While the integration of optical sensors in surgical instruments is a novel approach, similar technologies have shown promise in enhancing surgical precision in other fields.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Briteseed, LLC — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Throckmorton, Graham Adair — Briteseed, LLC
- Study coordinator: Throckmorton, Graham Adair
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.