Expandable Corpectomy Implant With Gear-Lock Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical interventions for intervertebral disc deterioration, such as laminectomy and vertebral fusion, are highly invasive and require prolonged recovery, while current corpectomy devices lack precise adjustability and stability for optimal fit and alignment with varying vertebral geometries.
Innovation Solution
A longitudinally adjustable corpectomy device with a base member and expansion member, utilizing a gear mechanism for incremental expansion and a press fastener for locking, allowing precise customization and securement to vertebral endplates, promoting osseointegration and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional corpectomy device is used, then the device provides basic structural support, but the device lacks precise adjustability for optimal fit with varying vertebral geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The corpectomy device incorporates an expandable structure with multiple telescopic segments that can be adjusted in length post-implantation. The expansion mechanism includes a piston, cavity, and expansion hole system that allows the device to dynamically change its dimensions to achieve precise fit with varying vertebral geometries, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adjustable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into multiple telescopic segments or modules that can independently expand and contract. This segmentation allows for incremental adjustment of the overall device length, enabling precise customization to match specific vertebral spacing requirements while maintaining structural integrity through the modular design.
2Reliability
If surgical intervention is performed to distract the disc and vertebrae, then pressure on the spinal cord is relieved, but the procedure requires prolonged hospitalization and recovery
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable corpectomy device provides immediate spinal cord decompression upon implantation and allows for postoperative adjustment of the distraction force. The dynamic expansion capability enables surgeons to optimize the decompression effect after surgery without requiring prolonged immobilization or extended recovery periods, as the device can be adjusted to achieve optimal spinal alignment and cord relief.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-configured with an expandable mechanism that allows for controlled distraction of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc. By preparing the device with built-in expansion capability before surgery, the procedure can achieve immediate decompression effects, reducing the need for prolonged postoperative recovery compared to traditional fixed corpectomy devices that require extensive healing time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an expandable mechanism is added to the corpectomy device, then precise adjustability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable corpectomy device incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism featuring a piston, cavity, and expansion hole system that enables post-implantation length adjustment. This dynamic component allows the device to adapt to varying vertebral geometries and spacing requirements, providing precise adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of a straightforward hydraulic or mechanical expansion system.
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 precise adjustment and secure fixation within the intervertebral cavity, accommodating anatomical variations, ensuring optimal contact and load distribution, and facilitating bone growth for long-term stability and support.
Implementation Method 1
A gear member rotatably secured to the base member to engage the rack of the expansion member wherein rotation of the gear member allows for a raising or lowering of the expansion member
Implementation Method 2
A press fastener is operatively associated with the base member for use in coupling the reciprocal engagement surface to the engagement surface
Implementation Method 3
a lower section, the lower section being slidably insertable into the cavity of the base member
Data Source
AI summary
The instant invention is a longitudinally adjustable corpectomy device which fits within the intervertebral distracted channel. The device employs a base member constructed to receive an expansion member, the base member having an engagement surface formed on a back wall. The base member further includes a rack formed along an outer surface of the lower section and a reciprocal engagement surface on a back wall. A gear member is rotatably secured to the base member to engage the rack of the expansion member wherein rotation of the gear member allows a raising or lowering of said expansion member. A lock fastener is operatively associated with the base member for use in coupling the reciprocal engagement surface to the engagement surface arresting movement of said expansion member in relation to the base member. An upper endplate is angularly adjustable.