Expandable Lumbar Fusion Implants for Precise Robotic Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedures face challenges such as iatrogenic pathologies from improper implant placement, radiation exposure, and prolonged surgical times due to the need for multiple radiographic imaging, which can lead to misplacement of implants and screws.
Innovation Solution
A bi-portal lumbar interbody fusion procedure using a robotically-enabled system with intelligent instrumentation for precise placement of an expandable interbody implant and pedicle-based intradiscal fixation, allowing for minimally invasive stabilization without violating the superior facet joint, utilizing a three-legged expandable interbody implant and nitinol rods for controlled sagittal and coronal corrections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedures are used with multiple radiographic imaging, then implant placement can be achieved, but surgical time increases and radiation exposure increases leading to potential misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical radiographic imaging guidance with a robotically-enabled navigation system that provides real-time, radiation-free guidance for implant placement. The robotic system uses intelligent instrumentation and imaging integration to achieve precise placement without the time-consuming repeated radiographic imaging required in traditional procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robotic navigation system as an intermediary between the surgeon and the implant placement process. This intermediary provides real-time guidance and feedback, eliminating the need for repeated radiographic imaging while maintaining or improving placement precision, thereby reducing surgical time.
2Reliability
If traditional pedicle screw fixation is used, then stabilization can be achieved, but iatrogenic pathologies may occur including facet violation and muscle disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixation system into multiple components including pedicle screws, rods, and an expandable interbody implant. This segmentation allows for distributed stabilization that reduces the burden on individual fixation points, enabling reliable stabilization while using smaller, more precise components that minimize tissue disruption and facet violation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using a minimally invasive percutaneous approach for pedicle screw insertion that preserves surrounding muscle and ligament structures. The expandable interbody implant provides localized support at the disc level, reducing the need for extensive facet joint violation while achieving reliable stabilization through targeted fixation.
3Reliability
If expandable interbody implant is used to increase surface area contact, then stabilization improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic expandable interbody implant that can be inserted in a compact state and then expanded post-insertion to increase surface area contact with the vertebral endplates. This dynamic design allows the implant to adapt to the anatomical space available while providing enhanced stabilization, balancing the increased structural complexity with significant functional benefits.
4Manufacturing precision
If robotically-enabled procedure is used for precise placement, then implant accuracy improves, but device complexity and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the robotic navigation system, combining pre-operative planning, real-time navigation, imaging integration, and guidance for both interbody implant and pedicle screw fixation. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated platform, reducing overall procedural complexity while maintaining high placement accuracy.
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
The system provides safe, repeatable, and precise implant placement, reducing surgical time and radiation exposure while ensuring anatomical alignment and stability, thus minimizing iatrogenic complications.
Implementation Method 1
The rod may have a naturally curved state and the rod may be straightened for deployment. The curved state of the rod may be an arc up to 180°.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2D
AI summary
Orthopedic implants, systems, instruments, and methods. A bi-portal lumbar interbody fusion system may include an expandable interbody implant and minimally invasive pedicle-based intradiscal fixation implants. The interbody and intradiscal implants may be installed with intelligent instrumentation capable of repeatably providing precision placement of the implants. The bi-portal system may be robotically-enabled to guide the instruments and implants along desired access trajectories to the surgical area.