Adjustable Spinal Fulcrum for Vertebral Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical systems for correcting spinal disorders lack precision and adjustability in compressing or distracting vertebrae, which can lead to inadequate alignment and stabilization of the spine, particularly in cases of kyphotic deformities and other curvature abnormalities.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument featuring an adjustable compression and distraction fulcrum with a lock mechanism, including a clamp screw and spring-loaded pressure plate, allows for precise positioning and fixation of screw extenders, enabling controlled compression or distraction of vertebrae, and can be used in conjunction with multi-axial screws and reinforcement sleeves for sagittal deformity correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed fulcrum is used for compression and distraction of vertebrae, then the device structure is simple, but the precision and adjustability of vertebral alignment are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum is designed with an adjustable width that can be dynamically changed during the surgical procedure. The fulcrum width adjustment mechanism allows the surgeon to modify the fulcrum dimensions to match the specific anatomical requirements of different patients and surgical scenarios, thereby achieving precise vertebral alignment while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fulcrum incorporates adjustable parameters including width and position along the implant support. By changing these physical parameters, the device can adapt to various vertebral configurations and surgical needs, improving manufacturing precision without requiring a completely complex device architecture.
2Reliability
If manual compression and distraction methods are used, then the surgical procedure is simple, but the control and stability of vertebral positioning are inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The compression and distraction function is segmented into distinct components: the fulcrum for positioning, the implant support for structural backing, and the locking mechanism for fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, providing reliable vertebral positioning without requiring an overly complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism provides immediate feedback when the fulcrum is positioned correctly, allowing the surgeon to confirm proper vertebral alignment and stabilization. This feedback mechanism enhances reliability by ensuring that the vertebral positioning is secure before proceeding with the surgical procedure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a non-adjustable fulcrum is used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but it cannot adapt to different surgical approaches and patient positions
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum is designed with adjustable width and position capabilities, making it a universal tool that can be used across different surgical approaches (anterior, posterior, lateral) and patient positions. This multi-functionality is achieved through relatively simple manufacturing techniques, maintaining ease of production while significantly improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fulcrum's adjustable characteristics allow it to adapt dynamically to various surgical scenarios. The adjustment mechanisms are designed to be straightforward to operate during surgery while requiring minimal complex manufacturing processes, thus balancing adaptability with ease of manufacture.
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
The system provides precise control and adjustment for correcting spinal deformities, allowing for effective restoration of spinal alignment and balance, addressing issues of kyphosis, hyper-kyphosis, and other curvature abnormalities, while being adaptable for various surgical approaches and patient positions.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded pressure plate
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical instrument comprises a fulcrum including a first surface that defines a cavity configured for disposal of a first implant support. A second surface is movable relative to the fulcrum and engageable with the support to fix the first surface with the support. A third surface is connected with the second surface such that the second surface is translatable relative to the support and the third surface is engageable with a second implant support. In some embodiments, spinal constructs, implants, systems and methods are disclosed.