Adjustable Interlaminar Spinal Stabilization System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization systems fail to provide comprehensive stability to the spinal column, as they primarily focus on stabilizing adjacent vertebrae without addressing the instability in the remaining portions of the spinal column, and do not effectively manage 'transition syndrome' or enhance existing spinal hardware for improved stability and intervertebral distraction.
Innovation Solution
A spinal stabilization system comprising interlaminar members and support structures that can be adjusted and fixed to stabilize vertebrae above and below the treatment area, including adjustable cross-linking members and variable shape components to conform to individual anatomy, providing enhanced stability and movement control between adjacent vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If interspinous or intra-laminar spacers are inserted to control relative motion between two vertebrae, then stabilization between adjacent vertebrae is achieved, but the remaining portions of the spinal column remain unstable and subject to damaging motion
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal stabilization system is divided into multiple independent stabilizable segments along the spinal column. Each segment can be stabilized individually with interlaminar devices, allowing comprehensive stabilization of multiple vertebral levels while maintaining the ability to address specific unstable regions without affecting the entire spine.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlaminar stabilization device is designed to perform multiple functions: it stabilizes adjacent vertebrae, prevents spinal canal narrowing, and can be extended to stabilize multiple segments of the spinal column. The system combines features of interspinous and intra-laminar spacers while adding capabilities to address overall spinal stability and transition syndrome prevention.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fusion techniques using bone grafts or synthetic implants are used to fuse vertebrae, then spinal stability is achieved, but vertebral range of motion is significantly altered and the procedure is irreversible
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization system employs dynamic interlaminar devices that can accommodate physiological motion while providing stability. The devices are designed to allow controlled movement between vertebrae within safe ranges, preventing pathological motion while preserving normal spinal mechanics. This dynamic approach contrasts with static fusion constructs that eliminate motion entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of stabilization parameters such as device positioning, spacing, and engagement force to optimize both stability and range of motion. By modifying these parameters, the system can be tailored to provide appropriate stability while preserving necessary vertebral mobility, avoiding the irreversible motion loss associated with fusion.
3Stability of the object's composition
If pedicle screw systems are installed to fixate vertebrae, then spinal stability is achieved, but the procedure is intricate, time consuming and highly invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the essential stabilization function from complex pedicle screw constructs and implements it through simpler interlaminar devices placed between vertebrae. This eliminates the need for intricate pedicle screw insertion, rod placement, and multi-component assembly, reducing surgical complexity and invasiveness while maintaining stabilization efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlaminar stabilization devices are designed as relatively simple, potentially disposable components that can be quickly implanted and removed if necessary. This contrasts with permanent, complex fusion hardware that requires extensive surgery for implantation and cannot be easily adjusted or removed. The simpler design reduces surgical time and invasiveness.
4Stability of the object's composition
If fixed interlaminar devices are used to stabilize vertebrae, then stabilization is achieved, but the devices cannot be adjusted to enhance existing spinal hardware or manage transition syndrome
Solution Approach 1:
The interlaminar devices incorporate adjustable and dynamic features that allow modification of stabilization characteristics after implantation. This enables enhancement of existing spinal hardware and adaptation to address transition syndrome by adjusting device parameters such as spacing, engagement force, and positional orientation to optimize overall spinal stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to perform multiple stabilization functions simultaneously: it can enhance existing spinal hardware, manage transition syndrome by stabilizing adjacent segments, and provide primary stabilization for unstable vertebral levels. This multi-functionality is achieved through adjustable components that can be configured for different clinical scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable spinal stabilization system for maintaining preselected spacing and movement between adjacent vertebrae in a spinal column and for providing overall stability thereto. The system includes at least one interlaminar member positioned in the spaces intermediate a first vertebra and the vertebrae positioned immediately above or immediately below and adjacent to the first vertebra. The interlaminar member is operatively connected to an adjustable support structure and cooperates therewith to maintain the preselected spacing between adjacent vertebrae and to provide overall stability to the spinal column.