Interbody Implant Barrier Prevents Agent Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for spinal disorders such as degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis often fail to provide lasting relief from pain and mobility issues, and existing surgical implants lack effective mechanisms to prevent the migration of biologically compatible agents used for fixation.
Innovation Solution
An interbody containment implant system with a biologically compatible agent and a movable barrier is designed to be inserted into the intervertebral disc space, where the barrier is deployed to prevent agent migration and enhance fixation between vertebrae, using materials like PEEK and titanium for durability and compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a biologically compatible agent is used for fixation, then bone growth and fixation are enhanced, but the agent migrates into the surgical pathway
Solution Approach 1:
The implant body is divided into distinct functional zones: a containment zone (cavity) that houses the biologically compatible agent, and a barrier zone that prevents agent migration. The barrier is segmented from the body but connected, creating separate functional regions that address both fixation enhancement and migration prevention
Solution Approach 2:
A barrier is introduced as an intermediary element between the biologically compatible agent and the surgical pathway. This barrier mediates the interaction by allowing the agent to remain in contact with bone surfaces for fixation while preventing unwanted migration into the surgical pathway
2Reliability
If the barrier is deployed to prevent agent migration, then agent containment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier is designed as a movable component that can be deployed and repositioned after implant insertion. This dynamic design allows the barrier to adapt to the surgical site geometry and provides flexibility during surgery, reducing the need for complex pre-configured structures
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is nested within or connected to the implant body structure, allowing it to be stored in a compact form during insertion and then deployed to its functional position. This nesting approach reduces the overall device complexity while maintaining the containment function
Data Source
AI summary
An interbody containment implant includes a body configured for delivery along a surgical pathway and disposed adjacent vertebrae. The body defines a cavity. At least one biologically compatible agent is configured for disposal within at least the cavity. A barrier is connected to the body and configured to be deployed to prevent the agent from migrating into the surgical pathway. Methods of use are disclosed.