Curable Nucleus Implant Balloon Curing Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for replacing the nucleus pulposus in intervertebral discs face challenges in accurately determining the size and shape of the disc space during discectomy, leading to potential improper placement and expulsion of implants, which can cause further pain and tissue irritation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a catheter-delivered expandable balloon with inlet and outlet ports, where a radiopaque solution is used to assess the disc space, followed by the injection of a curable nucleus replacement material, ensuring accurate filling and minimizing tissue damage, and the balloon is designed to maintain constant pressure to prevent volume change during curing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a curable implant material is injected into the disc space, then the disc space can be filled to restore cushioning and shock absorption, but volume expansion during curing can cause annular fissures and lead to implant expulsion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the curing process under constant pressure conditions. The implant material is cured while maintaining isobaric conditions, which prevents volume expansion and the associated harmful effects of annular fissure formation and implant expulsion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs beforehand cushioning by using a compliant balloon as a containment structure during the curing process. The balloon absorbs and accommodates any volume changes that occur during curing, preventing direct transmission of expansion forces to the annulus fibrosus and eliminating the risk of fissure formation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the disc space is accurately determined and filled, then implant placement precision is improved, but the complexity of the implantation procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional catheter system that combines several functions in a single device: the catheter serves as both the delivery conduit for the implant material and the pressure control mechanism. The compliant balloon also serves dual purposes as both the implant containment structure and the volume displacement mechanism, simplifying the overall procedure while maintaining precision.
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
This approach allows for precise determination and filling of the disc space, reducing the risk of implant expulsion and tissue irritation, while maintaining the structural integrity of the annulus fibrosus, thereby providing a stable and effective nucleus replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The implant material is introduced into the balloon in a first state and cured to a second state
Data Source
AI summary
A method of replacing a nucleus pulposus material wherein curable nucleus pulposus material is injected into a balloon in an intervertebral space.