Bone Anchoring Device Variable Configuration Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bone anchoring devices for spinal stabilization lack versatility in accommodating different rod diameters and locking mechanisms, which limits their adaptability for various spinal deformities and growth needs, particularly in pediatric patients.
Innovation Solution
A bone anchoring device with a variable configuration member, such as an outer ring, that allows for adjustable functionality by changing the positional relationship of rod contact surfaces, enabling both fixed and slidable connections with rods of different diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bone anchoring device uses a fixed structure for rod engagement, then the device is simple in design, but it cannot accommodate different rod diameters or provide adjustable locking configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the outer ring movable relative to the receiving part. The outer ring can slide along the longitudinal axis to adjust its position, thereby accommodating different rod diameters. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the device to adapt to various rod sizes without requiring multiple fixed configurations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality through a single bone anchoring device that can accommodate multiple rod diameters and provide different locking configurations (fixed and slidable connections). The movable outer ring and configurable contact surfaces enable one device to serve multiple functions across different surgical scenarios, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bone anchoring device allows adjustable configuration, then it can accommodate growth and varying anatomical needs, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The movable outer ring that can slide along the longitudinal axis provides dynamic adaptability for accommodating spinal growth. This single dynamic element enables the device to adjust to varying anatomical needs without requiring complex multi-component systems, thus achieving growth accommodation with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the outer ring to move along the longitudinal axis, changing the positional parameter of the rod contact surface relative to the receiving part. This parameter adjustment enables the device to adapt to different rod diameters and growth stages, providing versatility through a simple positional change rather than complex reconfiguration.
3Reliability
If the device provides multiple locking configurations, then it reduces the frequency of surgical adjustments, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The movable outer ring enables the device to provide multiple locking configurations (fixed and slidable) through a single dynamic mechanism. The ring can be positioned to engage different contact surfaces, allowing the rod to be locked in various configurations without requiring multiple separate locking mechanisms, thus achieving reliability with minimal complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality through a single bone anchoring device that can provide different locking configurations (fixed and slidable connections) depending on the position of the outer ring and engagement of contact surfaces. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized locking mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable locking capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A bone anchoring device for anchoring a rod to a bone or vertebra includes a receiving part with two legs defining a channel for the rod and a variable configuration member with a first rod contact surface configured to extend axially above a bottom of the channel to contact the rod. When a rod is inserted in the channel, the variable configuration member is adjustable from a first configuration where the first rod contact surface is at a first axial position relative to the receiving part and blocks the rod from contacting a second rod contact surface below the first rod contact surface, and a second configuration where the first rod contact surface is at a second axial position below the first axial position relative to the receiving part to permit the rod to contact the second rod contact surface.