Spinal Derotation Instrumentation for Vertebral Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vertebral column manipulation systems are cumbersome and not suitable for minimally invasive procedures, requiring complex instrumentation that hinders the precise alignment and stabilization of vertebrae during surgery, and fails to effectively control stress on vertebral bodies and implants.
Innovation Solution
A derotation instrumentation system with elongated extensions and a transverse linking assembly, including movable joints and cam assemblies, allows for controlled manipulation and stabilization of vertebrae, enabling precise alignment and distribution of forces across multiple vertebral levels using a single-handled approach.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If complex manipulation systems with multiple components are used to achieve vertebral alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulation system is divided into separate functional modules: derotation instrumentation with extensions and linking assemblies for alignment, and stabilization constructs for maintenance. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining alignment precision through specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The derotation instrumentation is designed as a separate, removable system that can be applied temporarily during the procedure to achieve alignment, then removed before final stabilization. This extraction of the manipulation function from the permanent implant system reduces the complexity of the overall device set while preserving alignment capabilities.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex manipulation systems with multiple components are used to achieve vertebral alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple alignment functions are merged into integrated derotation instrumentation assemblies that combine extensions, linking members, and adjustment mechanisms into single operational units. This merging reduces the number of separate components the surgeon must handle, improving ease of operation while maintaining alignment precision through the integrated design.
3Manufacturing precision
If instrumentation is used to achieve alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but the instrumentation hinders placement of stabilization constructs
Solution Approach 1:
The derotation instrumentation is designed to achieve alignment as a preliminary step before stabilization construct placement. The system allows alignment to be established and maintained temporarily, then the stabilization constructs are placed to lock in the corrected position. This sequential approach ensures alignment precision is achieved without permanent interference from manipulation instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The derotation instrumentation serves as a temporary tool that is discarded after achieving its alignment purpose, while the stabilization constructs remain as permanent implants. This approach allows the temporary instrumentation to provide precise alignment control without permanently hindering the placement or function of the stabilization system.
4Manufacturing precision
If forces are applied to vertebral bodies for alignment, then alignment is achieved, but stress concentrations on vertebral bodies and implants increase
Solution Approach 1:
The derotation instrumentation incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow forces to be applied gradually and controlled during the alignment process. The movable connections and adjustment mechanisms enable progressive correction rather than sudden force application, reducing stress concentrations on vertebral bodies and implants while achieving the required alignment.
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
Facilitates efficient and precise surgical correction of vertebral alignment, reduces stress concentrations on implants and vertebrae, and allows for the use of stabilization constructs to maintain corrected positioning, making the procedure more manageable and effective.
Implementation Method 1
a cam assembly for securing the mounting assembly in position relative to the link member and to fix the movable joint in position relative to the link member and to the extension
Implementation Method 2
Each of the mounting assemblies includes a movable joint for receiving the proximal end of a respective one of the extensions
Data Source
AI summary
Vertebral column manipulation systems include spinal derotation instrumentation to affect one or more derotation maneuvers on a scoliotic spine or on a spine having one or more displaced, misaligned or curved vertebral levels. Derotation instrumentation is attached to at least one vertebral body, with the instrumentation including at least two elongated extensions mounted to and extending proximally from the at least one vertebral body. A linking assembly extends between and links proximal ends of the extensions to one another. The linking assembly includes first and second mounting assemblies movably engaged to an elongate link member extending transversely to the extensions. Each of the mounting assemblies includes a movable joint for receiving the proximal end of a respective one of the extensions and a cam assembly for securing the mounting assembly in position relative to the link member and to fix the joint around the extension.