Band Clamp Implant Assembly for Flexible Spinal Band Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation techniques using metal wires or pedicle screws for cervical spine stabilization are prone to wear or loosen over time, posing a risk of neurological injury, especially in cases with low bone mineral density or fractured anatomy, and there is a need for improved band clamp implants to secure flexible bands effectively.
Innovation Solution
A band clamp implant assembly is provided, comprising a band clamp with a main body, locking members, and a flexible band system that includes a leader, anchor, and a mating recess, allowing secure attachment to bone and tensioning to achieve spinal fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal wires are used for cervical spine fixation, then fixation can be achieved, but the wires may wear through bone or loosen over time leading to neurological injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal wire to flexible band, and changes the fixation mechanism parameter from direct bone penetration to wrap-around configuration with band clamp engagement. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining fixation stability while eliminating the wear-through and loosening problems inherent to metal wires.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite system combining flexible band material with band clamp implant components. The flexible band provides continuous contact and distribution of forces, while the band clamp provides rigid anchoring to the spinal rod, creating a composite fixation system that overcomes the limitations of single-material metal wire fixation.
2Reliability
If pedicle screws are used for spinal fixation, then stable fixation is achieved, but placement is difficult or impossible in patients with low bone mineral density or fractured anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the anchoring mechanism parameter from screw-threaded engagement requiring strong bone purchase to band-wrap configuration that distributes forces across a larger surface area. The band clamp engages the flexible band through friction and mechanical interlocking rather than relying on bone density, enabling use in patients with weak or fractured anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible band instead of rigid screw constructs. The flexible band can conform to the anatomy and distribute loads across a broader area, reducing stress concentration on weak bone structures while still achieving effective fixation when combined with the band clamp mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible bands are used for spinal correction, then correction of deformity can be achieved, but secure attachment to bone and maintenance of tension requires improved band clamp implants
Solution Approach 1:
The band clamp incorporates a self-tensioning mechanism where the flexible band passes through the clamp structure and is secured by a locking member that engages with the band's own geometry. The band serves both as the corrective element and as part of the anchoring system, eliminating the need for separate bone anchors.
Solution Approach 2:
The band clamp design allows for dynamic adjustment of band tension during the procedure. The locking member can be engaged at different positions along the band to achieve the desired tension and correction, providing versatility in treating different deformity patterns while ensuring secure attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
Implants, systems, and methods for securing a flexible band, thereby providing a desired correction to the spine. The implant may secure the flexible band to patient anatomy without the use of pedicle screws or spinal rods. The implant may include a locking member configured to secure the band. The band may be looped around bony anatomy and tensioned to achieve correction and provide fixation as an alternative to pedicle screws and spinal rods during spinal deformity surgery.