Decoupled Intervertebral Spacer and Plate Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intervertebral spacer and plate assemblies in spinal fusion procedures are typically rigidly connected, limiting flexibility and requiring separate installation methods for the spacer and plate, which complicates surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method and assembly where the intervertebral spacer and plate are coupled to a single insertion tool for delivery to the surgical site, allowing decoupling post-installation, enabling independent implantation or combined use of the spacer and plate as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the spacer and plate are rigidly connected as a standalone assembly, then the structural stability is improved, but the flexibility and adaptability of the surgical procedure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the implant system into separate spacer and plate components that can be independently manipulated. The spacer can be inserted into the intervertebral disc space first, then the plate can be separately positioned and secured to the vertebrae, allowing surgical flexibility while maintaining structural stability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic assembly process. The spacer and plate are designed to be temporarily coupled during insertion via the insertion tool, then can be separated or independently adjusted after implantation, providing adaptability during surgery while ensuring stability in the final configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spacer and plate are installed as separate components, then the surgical flexibility is improved, but the procedural complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool serves as an intermediary device that temporarily couples both the spacer and plate during the surgical procedure. This mediator allows both components to be delivered and positioned with coordinated precision, reducing the complexity of manual separate installation while preserving surgical flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the delivery mechanism for both spacer and plate into a single integrated insertion tool assembly. This merging of delivery functions simplifies the surgical procedure by reducing the number of separate installation steps and tools needed, while the spacer and plate remain separable components for flexible positioning.
3Ease of manufacture
If a rigid standalone spacer/plate structure is used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the patient flexibility at the implant site deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By manufacturing the spacer and plate as separate components with standardized interfaces, the invention maintains ease of manufacture through modular production while allowing the final assembly to accommodate natural spinal movement and patient flexibility requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows for parameter adjustments in the final assembly configuration, such as varying the orientation and positioning of the plate relative to the spacer, enabling customization that preserves patient flexibility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized component designs.
Data Source
AI summary
Intervertebral spacer assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. A method of insertion includes inserting an intervertebral spacer and plate together using an insertion tool and, upon removal of the insertion tool, the intervertebral spacer and plate are no longer considered connected/coupled and act as separate components.