Adjustable Cross-Connector for Spinal Rod Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cross-connectors for spinal fixation constructs lack adjustability in length and flexibility to accommodate anatomical variations, limiting their placement in the body where anatomical features impede movement.
Innovation Solution
A cross-connector design featuring a first and second coupling assembly with a connecting device, allowing adjustable length adjustment by rotating a pin within a camming assembly and a screw mechanism, enabling placement above and around spinous processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If cross-connectors are made with fixed configurations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-connector employs an adjustable length mechanism that allows the distance between the two rods to be modified after implantation. The connecting device can be extended or retracted to accommodate different anatomical requirements, transforming a static fixed-configuration connector into a dynamic adjustable one that maintains manufacturing precision while achieving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the key parameter of cross-connector length from a fixed value to an adjustable range. By incorporating a telescoping or extendable connecting device, the cross-connector can be configured to different lengths to match various anatomical spacings between spinous processes, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If cross-connectors are made movable in lateral direction only, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-connector is designed with multi-directional adjustability, allowing movement not only in the lateral direction but also in angular orientations. This dynamic capability enables the connector to be positioned around anatomical features such as spinous processes from various angles, maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving adaptability to different anatomical configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds angular adjustment capability as another dimension of freedom beyond lateral movement. The connecting device can be oriented at different angles relative to the vertical axis, allowing surgeons to position the cross-connector around anatomical structures that may not be accessible through lateral movement alone, thereby enhancing placement flexibility without compromising ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cross-connectors use complex adjustable mechanisms, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-connector is divided into distinct modular components: two rod interfaces, a connecting device with adjustment mechanism, and locking features. Each segment performs a specific function, and the modular design allows for independent optimization of each component. This segmentation enables complex adjustability while managing overall device complexity through standardized interfaces and interchangeable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary adjustment mechanism that mediates between the simple rod interfaces and the complex adaptability requirements. This intermediate component provides the length and angle adjustment functionality while maintaining relatively simple rod connection interfaces, thereby achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
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
Enables optimal spacing between spinal rods, accommodating anatomical features and providing added rigidity and stability for spinal fixation constructs.
Implementation Method 1
adjustable length adjustment by rotating a pin within a camming assembly
Implementation Method 2
screw mechanism, enabling placement above and around spinous processes
Data Source
AI summary
A cross-connector, sized and dimensioned to stabilize the distance between a pair of rods in the spine. The cross-connector includes a first coupling assembly, a second coupling assembly, and a connecting device, extending therebetween. Each coupling assembly further includes a coupler, which attaches to a tulip head, and a camming assembly. The connecting device further includes a first arm element, a second arm element, and a screw. The arm elements move within the ball joints of the couplers and pivot around the screw, allowing a surgeon to adjust the length of the cross-connector and place the cross-connector above and around features within the body. The camming assemblies lock the tulip heads and the arm elements in place on the couplers. The screw locks the center rotation of the cross-connector.