Adaptable Interbody Implant Viscoelastic Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal implant technologies face challenges in providing stable fusion and preventing subsidence and expulsion in intervertebral disc spaces, especially with uneven or curved vertebral endplates, leading to inadequate contact and stability.
Innovation Solution
An adaptable interbody implant system that deforms under axial loading, utilizing viscoelastic properties to self-adjust and maintain contact with vertebral endplates, featuring a configuration that allows for flexibility and strength to resist subsidence, with cut-outs and posts to maintain height and facilitate fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid interbody implant is used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to uneven vertebral endplates deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implant transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adaptable structure through the inclusion of a viscoelastic core that allows controlled deformation. The flexible walls enable the implant to dynamically adjust its shape to match uneven vertebral endplates while maintaining structural integrity through the viscoelastic material properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant employs a composite structure combining flexible walls with a viscoelastic core material. This composite design integrates the strength and shape-maintenance capabilities of the wall structure with the adaptability and deformation capabilities of the viscoelastic core, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the implant body is made flexible to adapt to endplates, then adaptability is improved, but resistance to subsidence and expulsion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The viscoelastic core material exhibits time-dependent parameter changes, transitioning from a more compliant state during insertion and initial loading to a progressively stiffer state as it densifies and adapts to the vertebral endplates. This parameter evolution allows the implant to be adaptable initially while developing resistance to subsidence and expulsion over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant's mechanical properties are dynamic rather than static, with the viscoelastic core providing time-varying support characteristics. The flexible walls maintain structural boundaries while the viscoelastic material dynamically adjusts its resistance properties based on loading history and deformation, enabling both adaptability and progressive strength development.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the implant deforms under axial loading, then adaptability to vertebral surfaces is improved, but manufacturing precision control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The viscoelastic core's deformation characteristics are controlled through material parameter selection and formulation. By carefully selecting viscoelastic materials with specific flow properties, relaxation times, and density transition characteristics, the implant achieves predictable deformation behavior that conforms to vertebral surfaces while maintaining sufficient manufacturing control through established material science principles.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adaptable interbody implant system effectively stabilizes vertebrae by conforming to uneven endplates, reducing subsidence and expulsion, and allowing for successful fusion through adjustable deformation, enhancing spinal treatment outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
An adaptable interbody implant system that deforms under axial loading, utilizing viscoelastic properties to self-adjust and maintain contact with vertebral endplates
Implementation Method 2
The adaptable interbody implant system effectively stabilizes vertebrae by conforming to uneven endplates, reducing subsidence and expulsion, and allowing for successful fusion through adjustable deformation
Data Source
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AI summary
An intervertebral fusion implant comprises a body defining a longitudinal axis and extending between a first end and a second end. The body defines a first wall configured for engaging a first vertebral surface and a second wall configured for engaging a second vertebral surface. The first wall is connected to the second wall. The first wall is movable relative to the second wall such that the body is deformable from a first, initial implanted configuration such that the body is disposed between the first vertebral surface and the second vertebral surface for fixation thereof and a second configuration such that the body is deformed relative to the first configuration to adapt to an orientation of the first vertebral surface and the second vertebral surface. Methods of use are disclosed.