Deflectable Spinal Implant Segmented Hinge Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive subcutaneous procedures face challenges in inserting large implants through small orifices due to size limitations, necessitating the development of implants that can be easily inserted and expanded at the implantation site.
Innovation Solution
A deflectable implant system comprising a base and a sequence of segments interconnected by hinges and sliding connections, allowing the implant to transition from a low-profile insertion state to a fully deflected state, forming a loop structure that can be filled with biocompatible materials for intervertebral fusion or motion preservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If traditional rigid implants are used, then structural stability is ensured, but insertion through small orifices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is divided into multiple segments that can articulate relative to each other through hinges and sliding interconnections. This segmentation allows the implant to be collapsed into a compact configuration for insertion through small orifices, while maintaining the ability to expand to full size for structural support
Solution Approach 2:
The implant transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic articulated structure. The hinges and sliding interconnections enable the implant to change its configuration between collapsed (for insertion) and expanded (for structural support) states, providing adaptability during the surgical procedure
2Ease of operation
If implant size is reduced for minimally invasive insertion, then ease of insertion is improved, but structural stability after deployment is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The implant segments are nested or folded together in a collapsed configuration that fits through small orifices. After insertion, the segments are deployed to form the full structural configuration, effectively transitioning from a nested compact state to an expanded stable state
Solution Approach 2:
The implant utilizes dimensional transformation by collapsing in one dimension (cross-section) for insertion while maintaining length, then expanding in the collapsed dimension after insertion to provide structural stability in three-dimensional space
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed hinge connections are used throughout, then structural rigidity is maintained, but adaptability to different spinal configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different interconnection characteristics are applied at different locations: fixed hinges provide rigidity where needed, while sliding interconnections provide adjustability where adaptability is needed. This local differentiation allows the implant to achieve both structural stability and configurational versatility
Data Source
AI summary
Deflectable implants, systems and methods for implanting deflectable implants are disclosed. The deflectable implant includes at least one sequence of segments, the sequence includes at least two segments, the segments being interconnected at effective hinges, the sequence assuming a straightened or low curvature insertion state for insertion into the body, the sequence being deflectable to a fully deflected state defined by abutment of abutment features of adjacent of the segments. The deflectable implant includes further a linkage mechanically linked to at least part of at least one of the sequences of segments for deflecting the at least one sequence of segments from the insertion state towards the fully deflected state wherein the at least one sequence is at least part of a loop structure assuming a low profile folded state with the at least one sequence in the insertion state, and wherein deflection of the at least one sequence towards the fully deflected state generates an open state of the loop structure and wherein the loop defines an enclosed volume.