Convex-Concave Articulation Disc Replacement for Spinal Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interbody disc devices fail to effectively maintain or reestablish proper spacing between vertebral bodies, leading to potential neurological and structural impairments due to damaged or diseased discs, and lack sufficient mobility and stability.
Innovation Solution
A disc replacement device with a convex articulation surface and a concave articulation surface, along with bone fasteners, that allows for translation and rotation, and includes a locking mechanism to secure the device between vertebral bodies, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed rigid interbody device is used to maintain spacing between vertebral bodies, then structural stability is improved, but mobility and range of motion deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The interbody device incorporates a dynamic articulation mechanism between the first and second body members, allowing relative motion through convex-concave surface engagement. This enables the device to provide both structural stability through its rigid construction and mobility through controlled articulation between components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile interbody device is used to provide range of motion between vertebral bodies, then mobility is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a purely mobile configuration to a controlled dynamic system where the articulation between body members provides range of motion while the overall structural framework maintains stability. The convex-concave engagement allows motion within defined parameters while preventing excessive movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows parameter changes in the degree and type of motion through the articulation mechanism, enabling adaptation to different physiological conditions while maintaining structural integrity. The convex-concave surfaces can accommodate varying ranges of motion while preserving structural stability.
3Reliability
If bone fasteners are added to secure the device to vertebrae, then fixation stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: the first and second body members for spacing and articulation, and the bone fasteners for fixation. This segmentation allows the fasteners to be added as a separate fixation system without fundamentally altering the core interbody device design, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through modular architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A disc replacement device including a first body member with a convex articulation surface and a second body member with a concave articulation surface is disclosed. When operably positioned, the convex articulation surface engages the concave articulation surface to provide for movement therebetween. The disc replacement device also includes a first opening in the first body member and a second opening in the second body member, wherein the openings are angled and extends from the front aspects of the body members through the external surfaces. The disc replacement device further includes at least two bone fasteners for insertion into the first and second openings to secure the disc replacement device to a first and second vertebra. An interbody motion device and fusion implant, as well as a surgical method for implantation are also disclosed.