Flexible Spinal Stabilization System Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rigid spinal stabilization systems cause loss of mobility, stress concentration, and accelerated degeneration in adjacent spinal joints, and are irreversible, often failing to alleviate pain and transferring mobility stress to other segments.
Innovation Solution
A flexible spinal stabilization system using bone fasteners and a flexible connection element that allows for load sharing, motion preservation, and graft resorption, designed to provide stability and flexibility while mimicking natural spinal movement, potentially delaying the need for fusion and alleviating pain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid stabilization systems are used to immobilize motion segment units, then stability is improved, but mobility is lost and stress concentration occurs in adjacent segments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing rigid stabilization systems with dynamic stabilization systems that allow controlled motion. The dynamic stabilization system includes movable elements that can adapt to physiological movements while providing stability, thereby eliminating stress concentration in adjacent segments while maintaining motion segment stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from rigid (fixed stiffness) stabilization to dynamic stabilization with variable stiffness parameters. The dynamic system can adjust its mechanical properties to match physiological conditions, providing stability when needed while allowing motion to prevent stress concentration.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fusion procedures are performed to stabilize the spine, then structural stability is improved, but the procedure is irreversible and mobility is permanently lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic stabilization system provides reversible stabilization unlike irreversible fusion procedures. The system can be adjusted, modified, or removed based on patient recovery progress, allowing restoration of mobility while maintaining structural stability during the stabilization period.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid bar-like elements are used for stabilization, then immobilization is achieved, but natural motion function is eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic stabilization system replaces rigid bars with dynamic elements that can move and adapt to physiological motions. This allows the system to provide immobilization stability when required while simultaneously preserving natural motion function through controlled flexibility and movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies flexible elements instead of rigid bars, allowing the stabilization system to conform to and accommodate natural spinal movements while providing the necessary support and stability.
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 flexible system reduces stress on spinal joints, preserves natural motion, and provides pain relief by distributing loads and allowing for graft resorption, potentially reducing the need for irreversible fusion procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible portion conformable to the natural spinal movement
Data Source
AI summary
A system for flexibly stabilizing a vertebral motion segment by connecting a first vertebra and a second vertebra is disclosed. The system includes an elongate connection element with end portions interconnected by a flexible coupling member. The system includes first and second attachment portions for connecting the connection element to the vertebrae. A first resilient member is positioned between the first end portion and the first attachment portion, and a second resilient member is positioned between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. The system is designed such that the second resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions move towards each other, and the first resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions extend away from each other.