Decorticating Screw With Joint Compression for SI Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SI joint fusion hardware inadequately addresses the SI joint space, leading to deficient joint fusion and continued pain due to insufficient decortication and compression.
Innovation Solution
A decorticating screw device with a rotatable central ring and blades to decorticate the joint space, combined with a cap for compression, allowing for effective fusion by anchoring into bones and facilitating graft material integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing SI joint fusion hardware is used, then the procedure is simple, but the joint space is not adequately decorticated and compressed, resulting in deficient fusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (decortication, compression, and stabilization) into a single integrated screw device. The screw includes integrated decortication elements on its surface and a compression mechanism with a nut and washer assembly, eliminating the need for separate decortication tools and compression devices while ensuring reliable joint fusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw device serves multiple purposes: it provides mechanical stabilization through threading, performs decortication via integrated cutting elements on the screw surface, and applies compression through the nut and washer assembly. This multi-functional design addresses all requirements for successful SI joint fusion in a single device.
2Force
If existing SI joint fusion hardware is used, then the device is easy to operate, but compression force on the joint space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compression washer and nut assembly as intermediary components between the screw and the joint space. The washer distributes the compression force evenly across the joint surface, while the nut provides mechanical advantage for applying sufficient compression force. This intermediary mechanism enables strong compression without requiring excessive operational complexity.
3Reliability
If the screw includes decortication elements, then joint space decortication is improved, but the screw structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The decortication elements are localized to specific regions of the screw surface where they are most needed for effective joint space preparation. The cutting elements are strategically positioned on the cylindrical portion of the screw, concentrating the decortication function where it directly impacts fusion success while minimizing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Decortiating screws and insertion tools for implanting the decorticating screws including screws that anchor into a first and a second bone to fuse the two bones together. The screws include a rotatable bladed section to decorticate a joint space between the first and second bone. The screws also optionally include a cap to secure the screws in the bone and apply compression to the joint to be fused. In some embodiments, the decorticating screws are useful for sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion.