Articulating Spinal Implant Instrument with Universal Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current instruments for inserting spinal implants lack control and precision during the insertion process, affecting the biomechanics of the spine and potentially leading to further damage due to unpredictable shifts in the facet joints and reduced cushioning capability of intervertebral discs.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with an elongated body, tip assembly, handle assembly, articulation assembly, and driveshaft assembly, which includes a universal joint and torque limiter, allowing for controlled articulation and securement of the spinal implant, enabling precise placement and secure attachment to the intervertebral space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional spinal implant insertion instruments are used, then the insertion process is simple, but control and precision during insertion are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion instrument is divided into multiple functional segments including an elongated body for access, an articulation assembly with inner and outer shafts for positioning control, a tip assembly for implant engagement, and a driveshaft assembly for securement. This segmentation allows each component to contribute specifically to precision while maintaining overall instrument manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation assembly incorporates dynamic elements where the inner shaft can translate relative to the outer shaft, enabling the tip assembly to articulate at various angles. This dynamic capability provides real-time adjustment of the implant insertion angle and position, significantly improving placement precision without requiring a completely rigid complex structure.
2Reliability
If spinal fusion is performed to treat damaged disc or vertebra, then the affected vertebrae are held in place, but the natural biomechanics of the spine are affected in unpredictable ways
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument provides feedback mechanisms through its articulation and translation capabilities, allowing the surgeon to sense and adjust the positioning of the implant relative to the intervertebral space. The articulation assembly enables real-time adjustment based on anatomical feedback, ensuring proper biomechanical alignment while maintaining vertebrae stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument allows for parameter changes in implant placement including angle of articulation, depth of insertion, and orientation. By adjusting these parameters during the procedure, the surgeon can optimize both the stability of vertebrae placement and the preservation of natural spinal biomechanics.
3Length of stationary object
If the nucleus pulposus loses water content, then the intervertebral disc space narrows, but the cushioning capability is reduced and stresses on the annulus fibrosus increase
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument enables preliminary action by allowing precise placement of the spinal implant before final securing. The articulation assembly permits the surgeon to position the implant to maintain optimal intervertebral disc space height, preventing narrowing that would occur with nucleus pulposus collapse, thereby preserving both disc space length and cushioning capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An instrument for inserting a spinal implant into an intervertebral space is disclosed. The instrument includes an elongated body having inner and outer shafts configured to longitudinally translate with respect to each other, a holding tip which is configured to articulate with respect to the elongated body in response to the longitudinal translation of the inner and outer shafts, and a driveshaft assembly configured to cooperate with the articulation of the holding tip and secure a spinal implant to the instrument. A spinal implant and a system for inserting a spinal implant into an intervertebral space including an insertion instrument and a spinal implant are also disclosed.