Expandable Intervertebral Fusion Device with Selective Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intervertebral fusion devices require vertebral body distraction and are difficult to install due to size discrepancies, necessitating additional fixation methods, which can complicate the fusion process.
Innovation Solution
An expandable fusion device with a selective height mechanism, comprising endplates and a side wall with engagement rails and grooves, allowing for in-situ expansion and secure fixation without the need for posterior fixation, incorporating a drive plate with spikes for vertebral body engagement and an end cap for height retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a fusion device is dimensioned larger in height than the initial distraction height to maintain normal disc spacing, then spinal stability is restored, but the device becomes difficult to install in the distracted intervertebral space
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device incorporates an expandable structure with a collapsible body that can be compressed to a reduced height for insertion, then expanded in-situ to the desired height to maintain disc spacing and provide spinal stability. This dynamic transformation allows the device to be installed in a compact state and then expanded to its functional size within the intervertebral space.
Solution Approach 2:
The fusion device features a collapsible body with nested or telescoping components that allow the structure to be compressed into a smaller configuration for delivery through the intervertebral space, then expanded to its full height to provide the necessary spinal support and maintain proper disc spacing.
2Shape
If vertebral body distraction is performed to restore disc space height prior to implantation, then normal disc spacing is achieved, but additional fixation methods are required to maintain the distraction
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device combines the disc space maintenance function with the fixation function into a single integrated structure. The expandable body provides the necessary height to maintain disc spacing, while the endplates with bone engagement features (such as spikes or teeth) provide simultaneous fixation to the vertebral bodies, eliminating the need for separate fixation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fusion device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains disc space height through its expandable structure, provides fixation to the vertebral bodies through its endplates with bone engagement features, and facilitates bone growth through the hollow portion that can be filled with bone graft material. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional fixation devices or procedures.
3Ease of operation
If the fusion device is inserted in a compressed state, then ease of installation is improved, but the device requires additional mechanisms for in-situ expansion and height retention
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device incorporates a self-expanding mechanism where the collapsible body automatically returns to its expanded configuration after being inserted in a compressed state, or can be easily expanded using a simple actuation mechanism. The endplates with engagement features automatically lock into position to maintain the expanded height, reducing the need for complex external fixation devices or prolonged manual manipulation during implantation.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments of apparatuses and methods of an expandable fusion device are provided. In one embodiment, an intervertebral implant can be provided, having a first endplate having an upper surface and a lower surface, a second endplate having an upper surface and a lower surface. A first side wall extends from the first endplate and a second side wall extends from the second endplate and are configured to engage one another to provide a selective variable height between the first endplate and the second endplate. The first side wall and the second side wall form a substantially hollow portion substantially enclosed by the first endplate, second endplate and the side walls. The substantially hollow portion is configured to receive bone growth inducing material.