Dynamic Spinal Stabilization Device with Multi-Layered Longitudinal Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spine stabilization methods, such as fusion and fixation, often result in reduced motion and flexibility, leading to complications like nerve damage and extended recovery times due to the invasive nature of open spine surgery.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive system using a dynamic stabilization device with a multi-layered longitudinal member comprising elongated load-bearing elements, allowing relative motion between vertebrae while providing stability, and featuring a clamping mechanism to secure the member to fasteners, which are designed to maintain spinal alignment without fusing vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If fusion and fixation procedures are performed to stabilize the spine, then spinal stability is improved, but motion between vertebrae is eliminated reducing patient flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic stabilization device that allows controlled motion between vertebrae while maintaining stability. The device includes a rod connecting two pedicle screws with adjustable clamps that permit physiological movement ranges, enabling the spine to dynamically adapt to various positions and loads rather than being rigidly fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization device allows adjustment of motion parameters through configurable clamps and rod positioning. The system can be customized to permit specific ranges of motion in different directions (flexion, extension, rotation) while maintaining stability, changing the mechanical parameters of the spinal connection from rigid to semi-rigid.
2Ease of operation
If open spine surgery is performed to access the troubled area, then direct access to vertebrae is achieved, but significant trauma is caused including scarring, pain, and nerve damage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical approach is segmented into multiple small incisions rather than one large incision. Each incision is used to insert specific instruments (cannulae, screws, rods) through separate access points, minimizing the size of each individual incision and reducing overall tissue trauma while still providing adequate access to the spinal structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary instruments such as cannulae and retractors that provide controlled access to the surgical site. These intermediaries allow surgeons to reach the vertebrae through minimal incisions while protecting surrounding tissues from direct exposure and damage, reducing trauma to muscles, nerves, and skin.
3Length of moving object
If a constant diameter cannula is used to reduce incision length, then incision size is minimized, but the cannula becomes very narrow providing minimal space for observation and instrument manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical system uses nested cannulae where smaller-diameter cannulae are inserted through larger-diameter cannulae. This allows the initial large cannula to be used for establishing access and inserting smaller instruments, while the smaller cannulae provide precise delivery paths for screws and other implants. The nested structure maintains adequate working space while minimizing the visible incision.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for stabilizing vertebrae while permitting a range of motion therebetween may include first and second fasteners for engaging adjacent vertebrae and a motion preserving device that can be coupled to the first and second fasteners. The motion preserving device may include a longitudinal member that includes an array of load-bearing elements. The longitudinal member may be configured to permit the load-bearing elements to move relative to each other and/or relative to other portions of the member. In some embodiments, the longitudinal member is relatively inflexible along a longitudinal axis and relatively flexible in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.