Cervical Plumb Line Device for Spinal Alignment Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fusion procedures face challenges in acquiring accurate image-derived measurements, particularly for sagittal alignment, due to limitations in fluoroscope imaging capabilities and the need for precise geometric data and angulation measurements, which are essential for optimizing spinal fusion geometry and minimizing tissue disruption during surgery.
Innovation Solution
The development of cervical plumb line devices and patient-mounting systems that allow for the acquisition of radiographic images from multiple angles, combined with processing systems to generate geometric data and recommendations for optimized spinal fusion configurations, enabling precise measurements of sagittal vertical axis and angulation relative to a plumb line, and the use of trial instruments for controlled distraction during implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fluoroscope imaging is used to acquire sagittal alignment measurements, then imaging equipment is readily available, but accurate measurement of SVA and angulation cannot be obtained due to reduced C-arm height and inability to capture full spinal anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
A plumb line device is introduced as an intermediary tool between the fluoroscope and the patient's spine. The device includes a C-shaped configuration with a plumb line that hangs vertically to provide a gravity-referenced measurement standard, enabling accurate SVA measurement without requiring complex imaging system modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The plumb line device creates a visual reference copy of the vertical gravity line that can be captured in fluoroscopic images. This allows the measurement system to use standard fluoroscope imaging while overlaying a known reference (the plumb line) to derive accurate sagittal alignment measurements through image analysis
2Reliability
If interbody anterior height is increased to avoid PLL distraction, then safer implant placement is achieved, but ALL stretching or release may be required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurement and prediction of ligament tension before implant insertion. By using the plumb line device to establish accurate sagittal alignment and geometric data, the system can predict the required interbody height and anticipate ALL tension, allowing surgeons to plan accordingly and avoid excessive ligament stretching
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback during the surgical procedure by continuously monitoring geometric relationships and predicting ligament tension. This feedback loop allows dynamic adjustment of implant parameters to maintain safe operating ranges for both PLL and ALL, preventing harmful ligament stretching
3Manufacturing precision
If precise geometric data and angulation measurements are acquired to optimize spinal fusion geometry, then surgical outcomes are improved, but measurement and detection difficulty increases due to multiple imaging angles and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The plumb line device serves multiple functions: it provides a visual reference for vertical alignment, enables angulation measurements, facilitates SVA calculation, and supports geometric data acquisition. This single multi-functional tool simplifies the measurement process compared to requiring multiple specialized imaging systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical measurement approaches with image-based measurement. By capturing the plumb line in fluoroscopic images and using digital image analysis to derive geometric data and angulation, the system eliminates the need for complex physical measurement devices and manual measurement techniques
4Manufacturing precision
If controlled distraction is applied during implantation to ensure proper geometry, then implant placement accuracy is improved, but tissue disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary geometric planning and prediction before distraction is applied. By using the plumb line device to establish accurate baseline measurements and predict the required distraction magnitude, the system enables controlled, minimal distraction that achieves proper implant geometry while minimizing tissue disruption
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables precise control of distraction parameters (magnitude, direction, timing) based on real-time geometric feedback. By adjusting these parameters according to the measured sagittal alignment and predicted implant geometry, the system achieves accurate placement with minimal tissue disruption
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
These solutions enable accurate measurement of spinal anatomy alignment and angulation, optimize spinal fusion geometry, and minimize tissue disruption during surgery by providing precise geometric data and controlled distraction, thereby improving surgical outcomes and reducing the risk of complications.
Implementation Method 1
cervical plumb line device...produce a measurement of the sagittal vertical axis...measuring angulation of a patient's spinal anatomy relative to a cervical plumb line
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, tools and methods are disclosed during diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions. A cervical plumb line device is disclosed which can be used to produce a measurement of the sagittal vertical axis associated with a target part of a patient's cervical spinal anatomy from two or more radiographic images. Also disclosed is an apparatus for measuring the angulation of a patient's spinal anatomy relative to a cervical plumb line which uses a plurality of bolsters. A device that can be used to assist in implantation of an interbody device during spinal fusion device is also disclosed. Systems which produce geometric data describing optimized spinal fusion geometric at a spine level selected to receive spinal fusion.