Compressible Core Spinal Spacer for Dynamic Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization methods, such as spinal fusion and facet joint replacement, either limit spinal motion or fail to address pathologies effectively, leading to inadequate pain relief and instability in the spine.
Innovation Solution
An inter spinous process spacer device with a compressible core assembly, made of physiologically acceptable polymers and fibers, that stabilizes the spine by restoring disc height, allowing for rotation, lateral bending, and shock absorption, while being minimally invasive and adaptable to various spinal conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spinal fusion is performed to eliminate pain, then pain relief is achieved, but the range of motion for the affected joint is limited and stress on adjacent non-fused motion segments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer divides the stabilization function into segments: the rigid end plates provide structural support and pain relief, while the compressible core allows controlled motion. This segmentation enables simultaneous achievement of stability and mobility that spinal fusion cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where the compressible core adapts to varying loads and motions. The core compresses under axial load and allows flexion-extension, rotation, and lateral bending, providing dynamic stabilization that maintains range of motion while relieving pain.
2Reliability
If facet joints are removed to provide pain relief, then pain is reduced, but natural spinal movement is corrupted and spinal stability is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer acts as an intermediary structure that replaces the removed facet joints. The rigid end plates provide the missing structural support and stability, while the compressible core restores natural spinal movement, thereby simultaneously achieving pain relief and maintaining stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid spacers are used to provide structural support, then stability is improved, but natural spinal motion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer combines rigid end plates with a compressible core material, creating a composite structure. The rigid end plates provide structural stability and support, while the compressible core (made of elastomeric materials, hydrogels, or foams) allows natural spinal motion through compression and deformation, resolving the contradiction between stability and motion.
4Ease of operation
If compliant spacers are used to preserve natural motion, then range of motion is maintained, but the spacer may be displaced or migrate over time
Solution Approach 1:
The composite structure of rigid end plates attached to a compressible core provides both compliance for natural motion and rigidity for positional stability. The rigid end plates anchor securely to the spinous processes, preventing displacement, while the compressible core maintains range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible core acts as a flexible element that deforms under load rather than transmitting rigid forces that could cause displacement. This flexibility allows the spacer to conform to natural spinal motion while the rigid end plates maintain positional stability.
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
The device provides dynamic stabilization, reduces nerve impingement, and maintains near-normal spinal motion, effectively alleviating pain and promoting natural spinal biomechanics without the invasive risks associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible core member positioned between those end plates
Implementation Method 2
the described devices are compressible spacers that may be situated between the spinous processes
Implementation Method 3
a fibrous component that may be wound around at least a portion of each of the top and bottom endplates
Data Source
AI summary
The described devices are useful in the treatment of spinal disorders and pain. In particular, the described devices are designed to stabilize a portion of the spine by restoring and maintaining spacing between two adjacent vertebrae. The devices are compressible spacers that may be situated between the spinous processes of those adjacent vertebrae. The described inter spinous process spacers also allow a range of spinal motion and mimic the motion of a normally functioning spine.