Dynamic Interbody Fusion Lattice for Controlled Graft Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal implants used for interbody fusion often require stiff cages to prevent subsidence, which hinder the beneficial effects of vibrational waves and graft strain on bone growth, leading to non-union of adjacent vertebrae.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic spinal implant with a deformable structure that generates a modified strain tensor on bone grafts, incorporating lattice patterns and resonating elements to control and enhance mechanical load application, promoting bone growth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If stiff interbody cages are used to prevent subsidence, then structural stability is improved, but the beneficial effects of vibrational waves and graft strain on bone growth are negated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static, stiff cage structure to a dynamic, adaptable structure. The interbody device incorporates a deformable lattice inner structure that can dynamically adjust its mechanical properties to transmit beneficial vibrational waves and strain to the bone graft while maintaining structural stability through controlled deformation rather than rigid resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the mechanical properties of the cage structure. The inner structure uses a lattice pattern with controlled stiffness parameters that allow it to deform within specific ranges, transmitting vibrational energy and strain to the bone graft. The structure's elastic modulus and damping characteristics are optimized to balance stability with bone growth promotion.
2Strength
If stiff interbody cages are used to prevent subsidence, then mechanical support is improved, but graft strain and vibrational wave effects are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible shell principles through the deformable lattice inner structure that acts as a flexible yet load-bearing component. This lattice structure can flex and deform under physiological loads, maintaining mechanical support while transmitting controlled strain and vibrational forces to the bone graft, unlike traditional rigid cages that absorb or dissipate these forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material principles by combining the outer cage structure with an inner deformable lattice structure. This composite design allows the device to exhibit both the mechanical strength needed for initial stability and the flexibility required to transmit beneficial forces to the bone graft, achieving a dual-function material system.
3Reliability
If traditional rigid cages are used, then implant stability is maintained, but bone growth promotion through mechanical stimulation is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent directly applies mechanical vibration principles by designing the inner lattice structure to transmit and amplify vibrational waves to the bone graft. The lattice geometry and material properties are optimized to resonate at frequencies beneficial for bone growth, converting the device into an active bone stimulation system rather than a passive structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by optimizing the lattice structure's geometric and material parameters to control its mechanical response. The structure's stiffness, damping, and resonant frequency parameters are tuned to maintain implant stability while maximizing bone growth promotion through controlled mechanical stimulation during the healing process.
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
The dynamic spinal implant effectively promotes intervertebral bone growth by modulating mechanical loads, enhancing graft strain within a desired range, thereby improving fusion rates and reducing non-union complications.
Implementation Method 1
the inner structure is configured to generate a modified strain tensor on bone graft and/or bone substitute material disposed within the dynamic spinal implant
Implementation Method 2
The stiff nature of these interbody cages generally negates any potentially beneficial effects of vibrational waves and/or graft strain on the bone growth process
Implementation Method 3
incorporating lattice patterns and resonating elements to control and enhance mechanical load application
Implementation Method 4
The dynamic spinal implant effectively promotes intervertebral bone growth by modulating mechanical loads, enhancing graft strain within a desired range
Implementation Method 5
require relatively stiff interbody cages to minimize stress shielding of ingrown bone
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The present disclosure provides dynamic interbody fusion devices and methods of making and using same.