Expandable Spinal Interbody Assembly for Microsurgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal interbody and intravertebral devices are static in size, making them unsuitable for microsurgery and arthroscopic procedures, as they need to be large to effectively bridge vertebral gaps, limiting their applicability and surgical flexibility.
Innovation Solution
Development of expandable spinal implants with a top support assembly, bottom support assembly, and a control assembly that allows the implants to transition between a collapsed and expanded position, enabling adjustable positioning between vertebral bones for customized spacing and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static sized spinal devices are made large to properly bridge the gap between adjacent vertebrae, then the support and fusion promotion function is improved, but the device cannot be used in microsurgery or arthroscopic surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal device incorporates an expandable structure that transitions from a compressed low-profile configuration for minimally invasive insertion to an expanded configuration that provides adequate vertebral support. The device includes expandable elements such as balloons or mechanical expansion mechanisms that allow the surgeon to inflate or expand the device after insertion, transforming it from a small insertion profile to a larger functional size within the vertebral space.
2Reliability
If static sized spinal devices are made large to effectively bridge vertebral gaps, then the bridging function is improved, but the insertion difficulty increases for microsurgery and arthroscopic procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal device employs a nested or telescoping structure where the expandable elements are contained within a delivery catheter or insertion device. The device is compressed or folded into a compact form that fits within the delivery system, allowing percutaneous or arthroscopic insertion. After proper positioning is achieved, the device is expanded from its nested state to provide the necessary structural support and bridging function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static interbody devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the surgeon cannot adjust the spacing between vertebrae
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates expandable elements with control mechanisms that allow the surgeon to adjust the degree of expansion and thus the spacing between vertebrae. This may include inflatable balloons with controlled fluid delivery, mechanical expansion systems with adjustable stop positions, or shape memory materials that can be activated to specific degrees of expansion. The dynamic nature of the device provides customizable spacing while maintaining structural integrity.
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 expandable implants facilitate easier insertion and customizable spacing between vertebrae, enhancing surgical flexibility and support, particularly in microsurgical and arthroscopic procedures, while promoting bone growth and stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
a control assembly coupled to the top support assembly and the bottom support assembly and configured to control relative movement between the top support assembly and the bottom support assembly between a collapsed position and an expanded position
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable implant includes a top support assembly defining an upper surface configured to engage a first portion of vertebral bone; a bottom support assembly defining a lower surface configured to engage a second portion of vertebral bone; and a control assembly coupled to the top support assembly and the bottom support assembly and configured to control relative movement between the top support assembly and the bottom support assembly between a collapsed position and an expanded position. In the collapsed position, the upper surface is generally parallel to the lower surface, and in the expanded position, a portion of the upper surface extends at an acute angle relative to a portion of the lower surface.