Anterior Clivus Plate for C1-C2 Vertebrae Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a fixation device that provides structural stability to adjacent vertebrae, particularly in the C1-C2 articulation, which is often weakened by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis leading to basilar invagination, and existing devices may not adequately address the need for immobilization and realignment in this specific region.
Innovation Solution
A bone plate with a base portion and an angled portion, featuring openings and holes for screw fixation, designed to be implanted between the clivus and C1-C2 vertebrae, allowing for realignment and immobilization, potentially used in conjunction with decompression techniques and bone grafts to enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional plate systems are used to fuse vertebrae, then structural stability is improved, but the device complexity increases and may not adequately address C1-C2 articulation weaknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate is divided into distinct functional segments: a base portion for contacting the clivus and C1 vertebra, an extended portion for contacting C2 vertebra, and an angled portion for additional fixation. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bone plate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, immobilizes adjacent vertebrae, facilitates realignment, and enables bone graft placement through its openings. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices, thereby reducing device complexity.
2Reliability
If existing fixation devices are used for C1-C2 articulation, then some stabilization is achieved, but immobilization and realignment effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the bone plate have different properties optimized for their specific locations: the base portion has a specific configuration for clivus and C1 contact, the extended portion is designed for C2 contact, and the angled portion provides additional fixation capability. This local optimization enhances both immobilization and realignment effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The bone plate incorporates an angled portion that extends at an angle relative to the base portion, adding a dimensional aspect that allows fixation in multiple planes. This angular configuration enhances the device's ability to provide stable immobilization and facilitate realignment in complex three-dimensional space.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a complex plate system with multiple components is used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of operation during implantation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate combines multiple functional components into a single integrated structure: the base portion, extended portion, and angled portion are unified into one piece that can be implanted as a single unit. This merging simplifies the implantation procedure while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single bone plate structure performs multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices: fixation, stabilization, realignment facilitation, and bone graft placement. This multi-functionality in a single device greatly enhances ease of operation during surgery.
4Reliability
If a bone plate with multiple openings and portions is designed, then immobilization capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate is segmented into distinct portions (base, extended, angled) with specific openings in each section. This segmentation allows for optimized immobilization capability in each region while enabling modular manufacturing approaches that can simplify production.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to a fixation device for positioning and immobilizing at least two adjacent vertebrae. In particular, in one or more embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an anterior clivus plate that immobilizes at least two adjacent vertebrae.