Adjustable Intervertebral Disc Replacement Center of Rotation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current artificial intervertebral disc replacement devices have limitations in reproducing the natural range of motion and load-bearing mechanics of the native intervertebral disc joint.
Innovation Solution
A total intervertebral disc replacement device with adjustable components that allow for dynamic positioning of the articular surfaces, mimicking the natural 'floating' center of rotation of the intervertebral disc.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed center of rotation is used in artificial disc replacement, then the device structure is simplified, but the range of motion and load-bearing mechanics cannot reproduce natural IVD joint behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing an adjustable body that can move relative to the base body along an anteroposterior axis. This creates a dynamic center of rotation that can be positioned at multiple locations rather than being fixed, allowing the device to adapt to different anatomical requirements and reproduce more natural IVD joint motion patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into a base body and a separate adjustable body that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the center of rotation to be adjusted to different locations along the anteroposterior axis, providing versatility in range of motion while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added to the disc replacement device, then adaptability to patient requirements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable body provides dynamic adaptability along the anteroposterior axis, allowing the center of rotation to be positioned at multiple locations. This single adjustable component provides significant adaptability without requiring multiple separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable body serves multiple functions: it positions the center of rotation, allows adjustment for different patient anatomies, and enables customization of range of motion. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single adjustable component rather than multiple separate mechanisms, improving adaptability while controlling device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the center of rotation is fixed, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but the device cannot optimize load distribution for individual patients
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable body is designed to be pre-assembled with the base body, but its position along the anteroposterior axis can be adjusted after implantation or during surgery. This preliminary assembly simplifies manufacturing while allowing post-assembly adjustment to optimize load distribution for individual patient requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic positioning capability of the adjustable body allows the device to be manufactured with a standard configuration but then adjusted during or after implantation to optimize load distribution. This maintains ease of manufacture while enabling customization for individual patient needs.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an implantable artificial intervertebral disc joint replacement device for implantation between adjacent vertebral bodies. The device allows selective positioning of a disc implant element and comprises translatable surfaces, a mechanism for translation, a means for bone attachment, and an integrated disc implant. The device can be used in the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical regions of the spine in single or multi-level configurations. When implanted in a patient, the device includes an upper (cranial) component and a lower (caudal) component attached to the vertebral body above and below the replaced intervertebral disc respectively, with the joint implant integrated into the translatable surfaces. Following implantation, precise positioning of the joint implant within the intervertebral space with respect to the spinal axis is then adjusted based upon the particular anatomical and functional needs of the individual patient to satisfy spinal range of motion and stability requirements.