Articulating Spinal Connector for Mixed Rod Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spinal surgeons face challenges in connecting spinal hardware across different spinal segments, particularly at the cervical-thoracic junction where hardware sizes differ, and in revision surgeries where existing hardware needs to be integrated with new fixation constructs without removal.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector system with clamping portions and securing mechanisms that allow for the secure attachment of rods of varying sizes, enabling rotation and translation while maintaining connection, thus accommodating different spinal hardware sizes and allowing direct attachment to existing constructs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing spinal hardware is removed to allow new fixation placement, then new fixation can be properly installed, but operating time increases and patient disruption is minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating connector serves as an intermediary component that bridges existing spinal hardware and new fixation constructs. It attaches to the existing rod or pedicle screw on one end and connects to the new fixation on the other end, allowing integration without removal of original hardware and reducing operating time
2Adaptability or versatility
If hardware size is standardized across all spinal regions, then manufacturing and inventory are simplified, but the connector cannot accommodate different spinal hardware sizes across cervical and thoracic regions
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating connector incorporates dynamic articulation capabilities with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing it to adapt to different hardware sizes and configurations. The connector can rotate and articulate to accommodate varying angles and dimensions between cervical and thoracic spinal hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a modular system with separate clamping portions for different rod sizes, allowing each segment to be independently configured for specific hardware dimensions while maintaining overall connectivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single connector design is used for all spinal levels, then device inventory is reduced, but the connector cannot accommodate varying anatomical configurations and existing constructs
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating connector is designed as a universal system that can function with multiple types of spinal hardware including rods, pedicle screws, and various fixation constructs. It provides multi-functional capability to address different anatomical configurations and surgical scenarios through adjustable articulation and multiple connection modes
Data Source
AI summary
Connector assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. An articulating connector has a first end that clamps to a first rod in an existing construct and a second end having a second end that clamps to a second rod in a new construct or such that the new construct can be extended from the existing construct. In the case of different sized constructs used in different areas of the spine, an articulating connector has a first end that clamps to a first rod in a new construct having rods of a first size and a second end having a second end that clamps to a second rod in a new construct having rods of a second size. The clamping portions are capable of translating and rotating with respect to each other.