Dynamic Spinal Rods for Deformity Correction and Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal deformity correction methods often rely on rigid stabilization systems that limit spinal motion, which can hinder natural curvature and movement, and may not effectively promote vertebral fusion or long-term correction.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of a first rod secured on one side of the spine with anchors that allow axial sliding and changes in pitch, yaw, and roll, coupled with a second rod on the opposite side for secondary stabilization, facilitating derotation and translation to correct spinal deformities while allowing for natural spinal motion and potential vertebral fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid stabilization systems are used to correct spinal deformities, then immediate correction and stability are achieved, but natural spinal motion is limited and vertebral fusion may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a rigid stabilization system to a dynamic one. The first rod is designed to be movable relative to the anchors, allowing it to slide axially and change in pitch, yaw, and roll about pivot points. This dynamic capability enables the rod to accommodate natural spinal motion while still providing correction and stability, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the rod-anchor interaction by allowing axial sliding and rotational movement about pivot points. Instead of fixing the rod rigidly to the anchors, the system permits controlled changes in position and orientation parameters, enabling natural spinal motion while maintaining correction stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If anchors allow axial sliding and rotational changes to permit natural motion, then adaptability is improved, but lateral stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the degrees of freedom allowed at different locations and in different directions. The anchors permit axial sliding and rotational changes (pitch, yaw, roll) to accommodate natural motion, while simultaneously constraining lateral translation to maintain stability. This localized control of movement parameters resolves the contradiction between adaptability and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic design allows the rod to move freely in directions that accommodate natural spinal motion (axial sliding, rotation about pivot points) while maintaining constraint in directions that require stability (lateral translation). This selective dynamics approach resolves the contradiction between adaptability and stability.
3Device complexity
If a single rod system is used for correction, then device complexity is reduced, but secondary stabilization and long-term correction effectiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the stabilization function into two distinct rod systems: a first rod for primary correction that allows natural motion, and a second rod for secondary stabilization that provides additional support. This segmentation enables each rod to perform its specific function optimally, improving long-term correction effectiveness while maintaining reasonable device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of correcting a spinal deformity include securing a first rod on a first side of a spine, securing a second rod on a second side of the spine, and securing a lateral coupling between the first rod and the second rod to facilitate derotation and translation of the spinal deformity and further provide stabilization of the corrected spine.