Expandable Intervertebral Cage with Bone Graft Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lumbar interbody fusion systems lack the ability to effectively stimulate bone growth and provide adjustable support between vertebrae, as they typically inhibit normal movement and require additional instrumentation for stabilization.
Innovation Solution
An expandable intervertebral cage assembly with an elongate body and expander mechanism that allows selective expansion and inclusion of bone graft windows for receiving bone fusion material, promoting bone growth and fusion while providing adjustable support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed support systems are used to inhibit normal movement between vertebrae, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but bone growth stimulation is insufficient and additional instrumentation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single interbody device: the cage body provides structural support while simultaneously incorporating bone graft windows and an expandable mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate fixation instruments and bone grafting procedures, resolving the contradiction between achieving reliable stabilization and reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The interbody device is designed as a multi-functional component that can: (1) provide mechanical support and stabilization, (2) deliver bone graft material through integrated windows, and (3) enable adjustable expansion post-implantation. This universal design allows one device to replace multiple separate instruments and procedures
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional non-expandable cages are used, then simple structure is maintained, but adjustable support and bone growth stimulation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cage incorporates an expandable mechanism with movable walls that can transition from a compressed insertion state to an expanded support state. This dynamic capability allows the device to adapt to varying intervertebral space requirements while providing controlled expansion forces that stimulate bone growth, achieving adaptability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The bone graft windows are pre-formed in the cage structure before implantation, and the expandable mechanism is pre-assembled in a compact configuration. This preliminary preparation allows for simplified implantation procedures while maintaining the capability for post-implantation adjustment, balancing adaptability with device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable assembly for insertion into an intervertebral space is presented. The assembly, in particular aspects, includes an elongate body comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the elongate body defines an internal longitudinal channel extending from a proximal opening to a distal cavity. The assembly may include an expander that is sized and shaped for insertion into the distal cavity, thereby selectively expanding the upper portion away from the lower portion. The elongate body may also include one or more bone graft windows a cap that is sized and shaped for insertion into the proximal opening.