Dynamic Cervical Plate With Sliding Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed cervical plates resist the natural subsidence of the spinal column, leading to stress and discomfort due to their unalterable dimensions, while adjustable plates require subsequent surgical procedures for adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic cervical plate system with sliding sections and support bars that accommodate vertebral subsidence without invasive procedures, allowing for adjustable length to match the natural changes in the spinal column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fixed cervical plates are used, then the plate provides stable structural support, but the plate resists natural spinal subsidence causing stress and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical plate incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism with a screw that allows the axial length to be modified post-implantation. This enables the plate to adapt to natural spinal subsidence over time, reducing stress and discomfort while maintaining structural support. The mechanism transforms a static structure into a dynamically adjustable one.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable cervical plates are used, then the plate can accommodate spinal subsidence, but subsequent surgical procedures are required for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The plate includes a self-adjustment mechanism that can be operated by the patient or physician without requiring surgical intervention. The screw mechanism allows for non-invasive adjustment of the axial length, eliminating the need for subsequent surgical procedures while maintaining adaptability to spinal subsidence.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed axial length is maintained, then the plate structure remains stable, but the spinal column cannot undergo natural subsidence
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical plate is divided into multiple sections with a adjustable intermediate portion. This segmentation allows different parts of the plate to serve different functions: the end sections provide stable structural support while the intermediate section with the screw mechanism allows for axial length adjustment to accommodate spinal subsidence.
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic cervical plate includes a first end section and a second end section. In embodiments, the dynamic cervical plate may include one or more middle sections positioned between the first and second end sections. Each section may be longitudinally repositionable. Each section may include a plurality of openings for receiving threaded fasteners such as a self-starting screw or a self-tapping screw. In addition, each section may include an orifice for releasably mating with a drill guide. Each of the end sections may include a notch at one end for aligning with the drill guide or fixation pins. In one embodiment, a pin is used to interconnect the sections. In other embodiments, support bars are used to limit flexure between sections. In embodiments, one or more locking elements and/or one or more support bars may operably interconnect each section.