Cranial Clamp Fixation for Poor Bone Quality Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal fixation systems are inadequate for patients with poor bone quality or bone defects, as they lack sufficient surface area for anchorage and are unsuitable for conditions like Chiari malformation, where bone defects and limited bone availability hinder effective stabilization of the craniospinal junction.
Innovation Solution
A cranial attachment device with a clamp system that includes a first member for the upper cranial bone, a second member for the lower cranial bone, and a third member for the cranial edge, along with a fastener to anchor a spinal stabilization rod, allowing for secure fixation and stabilization even in cases of poor bone quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional spinal fixation systems are used, then the procedure can be performed with standard equipment, but the systems lack sufficient surface area for anchorage and are inadequate for patients with poor bone quality or bone defects
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into multiple separate components: a cranial attachment device with multiple engagement members, a rod member, and a vertebral attachment device. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific anchorage requirements, enabling sufficient surface area contact even in patients with poor bone quality or bone defects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional single-plane fixation to a multi-dimensional approach by engaging bone structures at multiple spatial levels - the cranial attachment device engages the skull base, the rod provides intermediate support, and the vertebral attachment device engages the vertebrae. This multi-dimensional engagement creates sufficient anchorage surface area regardless of bone quality.
2Reliability
If extensive surgical correction is performed to stabilize the craniocervical junction, then stabilization can be achieved, but the surgical complexity and morbidity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical procedure is segmented into distinct stages: first the cranial attachment device is secured to the skull base, then the rod member is positioned and secured to the vertebrae, with the vertebral attachment device providing final stabilization. This segmentation allows for a more controlled, less complex surgical approach compared to traditional single-stage extensive correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod member acts as an intermediary element connecting the cranial attachment device and the vertebral attachment device. This intermediary component simplifies the overall surgical procedure by providing a straightforward mechanical connection between the cranial and vertebral structures, reducing the complexity of direct extensive correction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixation devices are used in patients with limited bone availability, then the procedure can be performed, but the devices cannot be effectively anchored due to inadequate bone surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system applies local quality by concentrating anchorage engagement at specific optimal locations on the cranial bone and vertebral structures. The cranial attachment device engages at the skull base while the vertebral attachment device engages at the vertebrae, creating localized high-strength anchorage points that compensate for limited overall bone surface area available for fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system employs composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties - the cranial attachment device and vertebral attachment device are secured to bone structures, while the rod member provides intermediate mechanical support. This composite approach creates a multi-material fixation system that achieves sufficient anchorage strength in patients with limited bone availability by utilizing the strength characteristics of each material and its optimal engagement location.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal stabilization system that may be used to fix craniocervical junction. The system includes a cranial spinal attachment system that anchors one or more surgical instruments to a cranial surface using at least one cranial clamp and cranial fastener. The cranial spinal attachment system may be positioned along a perimeter of a cranial defect.