Flexible Bridge Inter-body Device for Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inter-body spinal devices for disc replacement and fusion are invasive, complex, and often result in prolonged surgery times and recovery due to their bulky design and difficulty in precise placement.
Innovation Solution
An inter-body device with a flexible bridge and annular cans that can compress for easy deployment, along with an inserter tube system and articulating trial implants for precise placement, and a bone graft insertion system to facilitate minimally invasive surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If prior art disc replacements are made bulky to ensure structural integrity and functionality, then the device can maintain strength and stability, but the device becomes difficult to place properly between adjacent vertebrae and requires invasive surgery for proper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The interbody device is divided into multiple segments including upper and lower cage portions connected by a hinge mechanism. This segmentation allows the device to be compressed into a smaller profile for minimally invasive insertion while maintaining structural integrity when deployed. The segmented design enables the device to navigate through narrow surgical access points and then expand to its functional configuration within the intervertebral space.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a telescoping or nested structure where the upper and lower cage portions can be collapsed one within the other during insertion. This nesting capability allows the bulky device to be compressed into a compact form that can pass through small surgical incisions and access channels, then deployed to its full size once positioned between the vertebrae.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art inter-body devices have complex structure to achieve fusion function, then the device can provide comprehensive spinal fusion capability, but the implantation becomes quite unwieldy and invasive due to complex geometry of the human spine
Solution Approach 1:
The interbody device incorporates a hinge mechanism that provides dynamic motion between the upper and lower cage portions. This dynamic structure allows the device to adapt to the natural motion and geometry of the spine during insertion and deployment. The hinge enables the device to flex and conform to the curved pathways required for minimally invasive access while maintaining its fusion function once positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes shape memory materials or phase-changing materials that allow it to transition between different states. The device can be compressed or softened for insertion through narrow access channels, then return to its original shape or change phase once deployed to provide the necessary structural support and fusion capability. This parameter change enables simplified insertion while maintaining comprehensive fusion functionality.
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 solution enables quick and accurate placement of inter-body devices, reducing surgery time and enhancing recovery by allowing for minimally invasive procedures and facilitating bone fusion.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible bridge that permits the cans to flex independently and compress together for ease of deployment in said disc space, while relaxing to their natural shape once deployed
Implementation Method 2
corrugated upper and lower surfaces that act to guide the inter-body devices upon entry into the disc space and engage the adjacent vertebrae
Data Source
AI summary
A system for implanting an inter-body device between adjacent vertebrae comprises an inter-body device having a plurality of cans secured to a flexible bridge and having a relief portion therebetween. An inserter tube and complementary bullnoses are advantageously secured to the vertebrae by an extension arm for securing the assembly precisely in place. A plurality of articulating trial implants are provided to test fit a disc space for the proper sized inter-body device.