Expandable Fusion Device Endoscopic Spinal Implant
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intervertebral fusion devices require vertebral body distraction for implantation, making it difficult to install them in the distracted intervertebral space and maintaining normal disc spacing post-implantation.
Innovation Solution
An expandable fusion device with a central ramp and endplates that can be inserted in a minimally distracted or non-distracted state, expanding to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, allowing for endoscopic placement and adjustable expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fusion devices are used, then vertebral body distraction is required to install the device, but this makes it difficult to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device incorporates an expandable structure that transitions from a compressed insertion state to an expanded functional state. The body includes expandable elements that can be inflated or extended after implantation to achieve the desired disc spacing and spinal stability, eliminating the need for pre-distribution while ensuring proper positioning and support.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with a nested configuration where the expandable structure is contained within a delivery system or outer housing during insertion. The inner expandable components are compressed within the delivery catheter, allowing minimally invasive insertion, then deployed to expand to their functional dimensions once positioned in the intervertebral space.
2Length of stationary object
If the fusion device is dimensioned larger than the initial distraction height to maintain height, then disc spacing can be maintained, but this makes installation difficult in the distracted intervertebral space
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes a dynamic expandable structure that allows the operator to insert the device in a compressed state through a smaller access path, then expand it in-situ to the required height to maintain proper disc spacing. This eliminates the contradiction by separating the insertion dimension from the functional dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs parameter changes in its dimensional characteristics during the implantation process. The physical state of the device transitions from a compressed configuration during insertion to an expanded configuration after implantation, allowing the same device to satisfy both the small insertion aperture requirement and the large final disc spacing requirement.
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
Facilitates intervertebral fusion by maintaining normal disc spacing and restoring spinal stability without the need for initial distraction, enhancing surgical ease and implantation accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The central ramp may be capable of moving in a first direction to push the first and second endplates outwardly and into an unexpanded configuration
Implementation Method 2
The expandable fusion device may be capable of being placed into the disc space down an endoscopic tube and then expanded into an expanded configuration
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube.