Adjustable Rod-to-Rod Connector for Spinal Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal rods used in fusion surgery are non-adjustable, limiting post-surgical correction and growth in pediatric patients, necessitating the development of improved rod-to-rod connectors that allow for in vivo adjustment of spinal rods.
Innovation Solution
A rod-to-rod connector with a body having spaced apart ends and adjustment openings along its length, allowing for the connection and adjustment of two spinal rods through a passage, facilitated by closure mechanisms and an adjustment instrument for securing the rods in the desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single spinal rod is used in fusion surgery, then the surgical procedure is simple and the device structure is straightforward, but the rod length cannot be adjusted after implantation to accommodate patient growth or gain additional correction
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal rod system is divided into multiple rod segments connected by a connector, allowing independent adjustment of each rod segment relative to the connector. This segmentation enables length adjustment while keeping individual rod components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates adjustment mechanisms that allow the rod segments to be dynamically repositioned relative to the connector body. The system transitions from a fixed configuration to an adjustable one, enabling post-implantation length changes without requiring complete removal and reimplantation.
2Loss of time
If traditional non-adjustable spinal rods are used, then the initial surgical procedure is straightforward, but additional surgeries are required to correct spinal issues or accommodate growth
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-contained within the connector, allowing surgeons to perform adjustments during the same surgical procedure without requiring additional surgeries. The system enables in-vivo adjustment capabilities that eliminate the need for separate correction procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-designed with multiple adjustment openings and mechanisms that anticipate future adjustment needs. The structure is prepared in advance with built-in adjustment capabilities, allowing for easy modification during or after the initial implantation without requiring complex additional procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable rod-to-rod connectors are implemented, then post-surgical correction and growth accommodation are enabled, but the risk of tissue trauma and infection from additional surgical access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the connector structure, allowing adjustments to be made through the existing connector without requiring additional surgical incisions or tissue disruption. The system extracts the adjustment function from the surgical procedure itself, enabling modifications through the already-established access path.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connecting a first spinal rod to a second spinal rod includes a body having a first end and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The first end of the body has a first rod opening formed therein for receiving the first spinal rod and the second end has a second rod opening formed therein for receiving the second rod. The body of the connector has a passage extending between the first opening and the second opening. The body of the connector has a plurality of spaced apart adjustment openings oriented along the length of the body between the first end and the second end, the adjustment openings communicating with the passage to facilitate adjustment of the first and second spinal rods within the passage.