Elastomeric Facet Augmentation Device for Spinal Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization procedures for damaged facet joints are invasive and require lengthy recovery times, as they often involve resection of damaged facets to accommodate stabilizing instruments, which limits the minimally invasive approach needed for effective spinal articulation restoration.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using first and second plates secured to adjacent vertebrae with an elastomeric member between them to mimic natural articulation, allowing for relative movement and promoting bone ingrowth, thereby augmenting or replacing facet joints without the need for facet resection, utilizing biocompatible materials like titanium alloys and silicone-polycarbonate-urethane copolymers for the plates and elastomeric member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If facet resection is performed to accommodate stabilizing instruments, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but invasive procedure and lengthy recovery time occur
Solution Approach 1:
The facet joint replacement device is divided into separate components: a superior articulating surface mounted on the superior vertebra, an inferior articulating surface mounted on the inferior vertebra, and an elastomeric member connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while avoiding the need for extensive facet resection.
Solution Approach 2:
An elastomeric member is introduced as an intermediary element between the superior and inferior articulating surfaces. This elastomeric member deflects under tension, compression, or shear without plastic deformation, mimicking natural spinal movement and reducing the need for invasive facet resection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional stabilizing instruments are used, then spinal stability is provided, but natural articulation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic elements that allow for natural spinal movement. The elastomeric member deflects under tension, compression, or shear without plastic deformation, and the articulating surfaces are configured to mimic the natural geometry and range of motion of the original facet joint, enabling dynamic movement while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric member's material properties are specifically selected to change its mechanical parameters (deflection characteristics) under different loading conditions (tension, compression, shear). This allows the device to maintain stability under load while permitting natural articulation during movement.
3Ease of manufacture
If facet resection is performed, then space for instruments is created, but structural integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into separate mounting components and an elastomeric member, the invention avoids the need for extensive facet resection. The superior and inferior articulating surfaces can be mounted on the vertebrae with minimal bone removal, preserving structural integrity while providing adequate space for the stabilizing instruments.
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 solution enables minimally invasive restoration of spinal articulation, reducing recovery time by sharing articulating forces with the elastomeric member, which deflects under tension, compression, or shear without plastic deformation, effectively mimicking natural spinal movement and providing structural augmentation or replacement of damaged facets.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric member disposed between the first and second plates. The elastomeric member is fixed to both the first plate and the second plate to provide relative movement between the first and second plates to mimic the natural articulation between the adjacent vertebrae
Data Source
AI summary
A method for augmenting or replacing a spinal facet (24) includes the steps of providing a first plate (40) and a second plate (50). An elastomeric member (70) is secured between and to the first plate (40) and the second plate (50). The first plate (40) is secured to a first vertebra (20). The second plate (50) is secured to a second vertebra (30) adjacent the first vertebra (20) for mimicking natural articulation between the first and second vertebrae (20, 30).