Expandable Spinal Implant With Wedge-Guided Spacing And Inclination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing expandable interbody devices have limited ranges of expansion, instability during expansion, and inadequate load-bearing surfaces, leading to subsidence and undesired shifts in positioning within the intervertebral space, posing challenges in treating spinal disorders.
Innovation Solution
An expandable spinal implant with a moving mechanism comprising a wedge, sliding frames, and set screws that allow for adjustable spacing and inclination between endplates, enabling precise expansion and contraction, and stabilization within the intervertebral space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If existing expandable interbody devices are used, then expansion capability is provided, but the range of expansion is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple expandable segments or struts that can be independently adjusted. Each segment contains its own expansion mechanism, allowing differential expansion to achieve a wider overall range of motion and better adaptability to different spinal anatomies.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with multiple expansion stages. The expandable elements can be adjusted through multiple positions, enabling continuous adaptation to different loading conditions and anatomical requirements, thereby increasing both expansion range and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing expandable interbody devices are used, then expansion capability is provided, but instability occurs during expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes pre-configured expansion mechanisms and guide structures that ensure stable expansion along a predetermined path. The expansion elements are designed with built-in guidance and constraint features that prevent instability during the expansion process.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary expansion mechanism or guide structure is introduced between the expansion element and the surrounding anatomy. This intermediary component facilitates controlled expansion while maintaining stability, acting as a mediator that translates expansion forces into stable structural changes.
3Length of moving object
If existing interbody devices are used, then spacing is provided, but load-bearing surfaces are inadequately sized
Solution Approach 1:
The device addresses the load-bearing surface area issue by expanding in multiple dimensions rather than just one. The expandable elements can increase surface area in both longitudinal and lateral directions, providing adequate load-bearing surfaces while maintaining spacing capability through multi-dimensional expansion.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing expandable interbody devices are used, then expansion is achieved, but undesired shifts in positioning occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates feedback mechanisms such as mechanical stops, guide rails, or sensing elements that monitor and control the expansion process. These feedback features prevent undesired shifts in positioning by providing real-time information about the expansion state and preventing excessive or misdirected expansion.
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 implant provides a high degree of adjustability, maintaining stability and load-bearing capacity, reducing the risk of subsidence and shifting, and facilitating effective spinal curvature correction and fusion.
Implementation Method 1
a moving mechanism operably coupled to the first endplate and the second endplate and positioned therebetween, the moving mechanism may have a wedge, a first sliding frame and a second sliding frame disposed on opposite sides of the wedge
Implementation Method 2
a screw guide housing a rotatable first set screw and a rotatable second set screw opposite the first set screw
Data Source
AI summary
Expandable spinal implants, systems and methods are disclosed. An expandable spinal implant may include a first endplate, a second endplate, and a moving mechanism that is operably coupled to the first and second endplates. The moving mechanism may include a wedge, a first sliding frame and a second sliding frame disposed on opposite sides of the wedge, a screw guide housing a rotatable first set screw and a rotatable second set screw opposite the first set screw. The first set screw may be operably coupled to the second sliding frame and the second set screw may be operably coupled to the wedge. The moving mechanism may operably adjust a spacing between the first and second endplates upon simultaneous rotation of the first and second set screws and operably adjust an angle of inclination between the first and second endplates upon translating the first set screw or second set screw.