Adjustable-Angle Cervical Spine Distractor for Vertebral Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Caspar distractors lack adjustability, which limits their ability to adapt to individual anatomical variations in the cervical spine, leading to challenges in achieving optimal vertebral alignment, increased risk of complications, and suboptimal fusion outcomes.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable mechanism is introduced to the Caspar distractor, allowing independent angulation of vertebral bodies through each pin, enabling real-time adjustments to customize the distraction angle based on patient-specific anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed-angle Caspar distractor is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to individual anatomical variations in the cervical spine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed-angle arm structure with an adjustable-angle mechanism. Each arm can be independently adjusted to different angles using a adjustment mechanism comprising a adjustment hole, adjustment screw, and locking nut, allowing the distractor to adapt to various anatomical configurations while maintaining structural control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by enabling continuous adjustment of the arm angle parameter. The adjustment screw moves the arm relative to the vertical rack through threaded engagement, changing the distraction angle parameter to match patient-specific anatomy, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If a fixed distraction angle is used, then the device is easy to operate, but optimal vertebral alignment cannot be achieved for all patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-designing the adjustment mechanism with clearly marked angular positions and intuitive screw-nut coupling. The surgeon can pre-adjust the arm angle before insertion and make fine-tuned adjustments intraoperatively without complex procedures, achieving precise vertebral alignment while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism allows self-service adjustment through the screw-nut coupling system. The adjustment screw directly engages with the threaded hole to move the arm, and the locking nut secures the position, enabling the surgeon to independently adjust and lock the angle without requiring additional tools or assistants
3Reliability
If no angle adjustment mechanism is provided, then the device is reliable and simple, but surgical complications increase due to suboptimal alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the adjustment function into distinct modular components: the adjustment hole providing the threaded path, the adjustment screw providing the actuating force, and the locking nut providing the securing mechanism. This segmented design enhances reliability by allowing each component to be optimized independently while controlling overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A cervical distractor is provided having an elongated rigid member having a plane and an axis in the plane; a plurality of arms supported by the elongated rigid member, at least one of the arms having an adjustable position along the axis of the elongated rigid member, and being lockable in position; and a pin-holder on each arm, the pin holder being continuously deflectable over a range about a pivot by a mechanism which is locked or frictionally-engaged in position, the mechanism being separated along the arm from the elongated rigid member by a hinge.