Expandable Fusion Implant for Low-Distraction Spinal Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fusion devices require vertebral body distraction for implantation, leading to difficulties in installing the device due to height discrepancies between the distracted and final dimensions, potentially causing damage during insertion.
Innovation Solution
An expandable fusion device that can be installed at a minimum distraction height, capable of expanding to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, utilizing a drive screw mechanism for expansion and a lock to prevent rotation, and an inserter instrument for precise implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional fusion devices are used, then vertebral body distraction is required to restore disc space height, but this creates a size mismatch between the distracted space and the implant, making accurate installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device incorporates an expandable structure that transitions from a compressed implantable configuration to an expanded deployed configuration. The body includes expandable walls with outwardly directed expansion surfaces that allow the device to increase in height after insertion, enabling accurate placement in a minimally distracted space while maintaining normal disc spacing once deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into distinct functional components: an endoscope for visual guidance, a distractor for minimal space creation, and an expandable fusion device with separate endplates and a body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, with the expandable body adapting to the prepared space
2Manufacturing precision
If the fusion device is dimensioned larger than the initial distraction height to maintain normal disc spacing, then disc spacing is maintained, but the device becomes difficult to install in the distracted intervertebral space
Solution Approach 1:
The fusion device utilizes a dynamic expansion mechanism where the body transitions from a compressed state during insertion to an expanded state after implantation. The expandable walls with outwardly directed surfaces allow the device to increase in height within the intervertebral space, achieving normal disc spacing without requiring the device to be pre-sized larger than the distracted space
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable fusion device can be inserted in a compressed, space-efficient configuration and then expanded within the intervertebral space to achieve its final, larger dimensions. This nesting approach allows the device to pass through the preparation instruments and insert through a minimally distracted space while still achieving the required final height for maintaining normal disc spacing
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 safe and efficient implantation without vertebral body distraction, maintaining disc spacing and promoting intervertebral fusion by expanding to fit the disc space, reducing the risk of damage during insertion.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the drive screw is configured to increase or decrease a distance between the first endplate and the second endplate
Implementation Method 2
the lock is configured to stop rotation of the drive screw
Implementation Method 3
In a locked position, the second ring may be configured to rest in the circumferential groove of the head portion
Data Source
AI summary
Expandable fusion devices, systems, instruments, and methods thereof. The expandable fusion device is capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. The fusion device may include a body, a first endplate, and a second endplate. A drive screw may be rotated to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. Instruments may be provided to ensure the implant is inserted safely and as intended.