Connectable Intervertebral Implant for Rotational Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interbody implants used for spinal fusion in the lumbar region, especially when approached posteriorly, face challenges with stability and safety due to the need for bilateral small-sized implants that can displace or expel, as they are less stable and more prone to rotational instability compared to larger implants.
Innovation Solution
The development of interbody implants consisting of multiple parts that can be connected in situ, featuring a male and female design with protrusions and receivers, or elastic tabs, allowing for secure connection and forming a stable, integrated platform without the disadvantages of single monobloc implants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two small sized interbody implants are used symmetrically arranged relative to the axis of the spine, then the medullary canal can accommodate the implants, but the implants are less stable and more prone to rotational displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent connects two separate interbody implants together using a connection element that bridges them, forming a unified structure. This merging of two small implants into a connected pair resolves the rotational instability issue while maintaining the space-saving advantage of small individual implants.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element is designed to be attached to both implants before final insertion into the medullary canal. This preliminary connection ensures that the implants are already stabilized against rotational displacement before being placed in the confined space, preventing instability issues.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate interbody implants are used, then the medullary canal can accommodate them, but there is a risk of relative displacement or expulsion of the implants
Solution Approach 1:
By connecting the two separate implants with a rigid connection element, they function as a unified assembly rather than independent components. This prevents relative displacement between implants and reduces the risk of expulsion, as the connected structure presents a more stable configuration within the medullary canal.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element features a curved or arcuate shape that conforms to the natural curvature of the medullary canal. This curved geometry allows the connected implant assembly to better fit the anatomical space, improving retention while maintaining compatibility with the canal's geometry.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a single large interbody implant is used, then rotational stability is improved, but it cannot be accommodated in the medullary canal by posterior approach
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large implant, the invention divides the implant volume into two smaller implants that can individually fit within the medullary canal. By connecting these segmented implants, the system achieves stability comparable to a large implant while maintaining the size constraints necessary for posterior approach surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element adds a new dimensional aspect to the implant configuration, creating a three-dimensional connected structure. This spatial arrangement allows two small implants to function collectively as a stable unit, achieving the stability of a large implant without requiring increased volume of individual components.
Data Source
AI summary
An intersomatic implant (1a, 1b) maintains bone graft material in a receiving cavity formed in a disc in order to obtain intervertebral fusion. The implant (1a, 1b) includes of a plurality of parts provided with means for in situ connection of two consecutive parts. Instruments (33) are used to connect these implants (1a, 1b) and a tool assists in introducing these implants (1a, 1b) into the cavity formed in the disc.