Coronal Angulating Connector for Spinal Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal implant fixation systems lack effective stabilization and adjustment capabilities, particularly in addressing spinal disorders such as degenerative disc disease, osteoporosis, and curvature abnormalities, where existing surgical treatments may not adequately relieve symptoms or provide sufficient mobility.
Innovation Solution
A spinal implant connector system that includes a first member with a U-shaped cavity for a fixed rod and a second rotatable member with a splined washer, allowing for 360-degree adjustment and locking of a second rod at various coronal angles, facilitating stabilization and alignment of vertebral rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed connector design is used to stabilize vertebral rods, then stabilization is provided, but adjustability for coronal angulation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a static fixed design to a dynamic adjustable design by incorporating a second member that can rotate about a transverse axis, allowing the system to adapt to different coronal angulation requirements while maintaining stabilization through locking mechanisms
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple connector design is used to reduce complexity, then ease of manufacture is improved, but stabilization and adjustment capabilities are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a first member for receiving the first rod, a second member for receiving and rotating the second rod, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standardized interfaces while providing complex stabilization and adjustment capabilities when assembled
3Ease of operation
If existing surgical treatments are used, then initial symptom relief is achieved, but sufficient mobility and stabilization are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The connector provides dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow surgeons to optimize both symptom relief and long-term mobility/stabilization by adjusting the coronal angulation of the second rod to match the patient's specific spinal anatomy and disorder requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is provided for linear implants such as spinal rods which are disposed within the coronal plane of a body. The connector includes a first portion having a first cavity for disposal therethrough of a first spinal rod. A second portion has a second cavity for the disposal therethrough of a second spinal rod. The second portion is rotatable relative to the first portion. Methods of use are disclosed.