Adjustable Spinous Process Stabilizer with Single-Action Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae by clamping spinous processes between plates face challenges in applying the right amount of compressive force, risking damage to the bone or allowing slippage, and require multiple devices with varying spacers for different thicknesses, lacking an adjustable and easily lockable solution.
Innovation Solution
A spinous process device with a first element gripping one side of the spinous processes, a spacer element with adjustable separation bars, and a second element gripping the other side, featuring a clamping feature that can be locked into position with a single action, allowing for adjustable spacing and secure immobilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plates apply sufficient compressive force to clamp spinous processes, then the spinous processes are prevented from slipping, but there is a risk of damage to the bone of the spinous processes
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates an adjustable spacer that allows dynamic adjustment of the clamping force. The spacer can be positioned at different heights to provide the exact separation needed, enabling the plates to apply sufficient force to prevent slippage without excessive force that could damage the bone. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by allowing optimization of the force applied based on specific anatomical requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of spacer height to control the clamping force. By selecting spacers with different heights, the device can accommodate variations in spinous process anatomy and provide appropriate separation, thereby preventing both slippage and bone damage. This parameter adjustment allows the system to adapt to different clinical scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices with varying spacers are provided for different thicknesses, then adaptability to different anatomical conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device design integrates multiple spacer heights into a single universal device platform. The adjustable spacer mechanism allows one device to perform the function of multiple fixed-spacer devices, eliminating the need to stock and manage multiple different devices. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability to different anatomical conditions while maintaining a simple, unified device design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable spacer is provided, then the need for multiple devices with a range of thicknesses is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into modular components including the main plate structure and a separate adjustable spacer element. This segmentation allows the spacer to be independently adjusted and positioned without complicating the overall device structure. The modular design enables easy adjustment while maintaining structural simplicity, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
4Ease of operation
If a single action locking mechanism is provided, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of locking may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-locking through a ratchet or friction-based system that automatically secures the spacer in position once adjusted. This self-service locking mechanism eliminates the need for multiple locking actions or complex procedures, providing both ease of operation and reliable locking in a single action. The design ensures that the locked position is maintained securely without requiring additional steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes can comprise a first element, a second element, and a spacer element. The first element can have a side configured to grip first sides of the adjacent spinous processes and a first separation bar that extends between the adjacent spinous processes when the first element and the spinous processes are engaged. The spacer element can have an adjustment bar and a second separation bar. The second element can have a side configured to grip second sides of the adjacent spinous processes and a clamping feature configured to selectably lock the first separation bar and the adjustment bar in place. The second separation bar can extend between the adjacent spinous processes when the second element and the adjacent spinous processes are engaged.