Adjustable Orthopedic Interconnection Device for Spinal Rod Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In orthopedic surgery, there is a need for adjustable and versatile mechanisms to connect elongated members like rods to bones at varying heights and orientations, as patient anatomy and surgical requirements can vary significantly.
Innovation Solution
The use of a receiver member with a U-shaped channel and a bone-engaging member, such as a screw, that allows for 360-degree rotation and adjustable positioning along the elongated member, combined with a lock member for secure attachment, enables flexible and precise placement of orthopedic implants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-position connection mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different anatomical needs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic repositioning of the elongated member relative to the bone anchor. The adjustment mechanism enables the rod to be positioned at different heights and orientations along the screw body, transforming a static fixed-position connection into a dynamic adjustable system that adapts to various anatomical configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal adaptability features including a bone anchor that can engage with different bone structures, a screw with multiple engagement positions along its body, and a rod that can be positioned at various orientations. This multi-functional design allows a single device to serve multiple surgical scenarios and anatomical variations
2Manufacturing precision
If a simple connection mechanism is used, then the device complexity is low, but the positioning precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into distinct functional segments: a bone anchor portion for skeletal engagement, a screw body with defined engagement zones, and an elongated rod. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while providing precise positioning capabilities through the defined interaction zones between segments
Solution Approach 2:
The screw acts as an intermediary component between the bone anchor and the elongated rod. It provides a structured interface with defined engagement positions that enable precise positioning of the rod relative to the bone, while the bone anchor serves as the fixed reference point, creating a controlled positioning system
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable connection mechanism is used, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a nested structure where the elongated rod is positioned within or alongside the screw body, and the bone anchor is integrated with the screw structure. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional components to be compactly organized while maintaining adjustability, reducing the overall spatial complexity despite the increased functional versatility
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanisms for connecting an elongated member for orthopedic support or therapy to bone or other tissue are disclosed. Embodiments may include a receiver member with a channel for accommodating an elongated member such as a spinal rod and a channel for accommodating a bone-engaging member, a bone-engaging member that is insertable into the channel in the receiver member, and a lock member for locking the receiver member, bone-engaging member, and elongated member together. The channels may be variously oriented with respect to each other. Methods for using such embodiments are also disclosed.