Endplate Punch Template for Vertebral Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for treating spinal disorders, such as degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis, face challenges in effectively penetrating and stabilizing vertebral endplates to secure interbody implants, leading to potential slippage and instability.
Innovation Solution
An endplate punch template with complementary extension templates is used to penetrate and create cavities in vertebral endplates, allowing for secure fixation of interbody implants with matching extensions, thereby preventing slippage and providing stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surgical methods are used to penetrate and stabilize vertebral endplates, then the procedure can be performed with simpler tools, but the implant stability and prevention of slippage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The template is divided into multiple plates (first plate, second plate, third plate) with distinct functions: the first plate creates cavities in the endplate, the second plate provides support, and the third plate facilitates implant insertion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall implant stability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The template performs preliminary actions by creating cavities and channels in the endplate before implant insertion. The extensions on the first plate pre-form receptacles that guide and secure the implant extensions, ensuring proper positioning and stability from the outset. This preliminary preparation prevents slippage by establishing a mechanical interlock before the final implant is placed
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single plate template is used, then the device is simpler, but it cannot effectively penetrate both endplates of adjacent vertebrae simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-plate template structure provides universal functionality for different surgical needs. The first plate with extensions can penetrate and create cavities in multiple endplates simultaneously, while the second and third plates provide support and guidance functions. This multi-functional design allows a single template system to address various vertebral conditions and anatomical variations, improving adaptability without requiring multiple separate instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The template plates are arranged in a nested configuration where the first plate with extensions is positioned within or alongside the second and third plates. This nesting allows the extensions to reach and penetrate endplates while the outer plates provide structural support and alignment. The nested structure enables simultaneous multi-vertebra penetration while maintaining a compact, manageable device form factor
3Reliability
If the template extensions do not have a complementary design, then the template is easier to manufacture, but the implant can slip after insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The extensions on the template plates are designed with asymmetric, complementary geometries that match corresponding cavities in the endplate. The first plate extensions create specific-shaped receptacles, while the second plate extensions provide matching support surfaces. This asymmetric complementary design ensures that the implant extensions fit precisely into the prepared cavities, preventing slippage through geometric interlocking rather than relying on friction alone
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the template have locally optimized qualities: the first plate extensions have sharp leading ends for penetrating dense endplate bone, while the trailing ends have complementary shapes for creating precise cavities. The second plate extensions provide localized support in critical load-bearing areas. This local quality optimization ensures both effective penetration and secure fixation, with each region of the template designed for its specific functional requirement
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument for penetrating an endplate of a vertebra having a first plate including a first endplate engaging surface and a second surface. The first endplate engaging surface and the second surface are oriented so as to face in opposing directions. The first plate has a plurality of extensions projecting from the first endplate engaging surface to form a first extension template. The first extension template includes a centrally disposed extension and at least one extension radially disposed about the centrally disposed extension. The first extension template is configured to penetrate an endplate surface of a first vertebra when advanced into the endplate surface of the first vertebra.