Interbody Fusion Device with Segmented Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fusion devices and procedures face challenges in effectively treating degenerative disc disease and spinal instability, particularly in immobilizing vertebrae and preventing migration of implant components, which can lead to inadequate fusion and pain relief.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece interbody fusion device comprising a ring-shaped load bearing component and a retention component, with bone screws and an anti-backout mechanism, designed to fit between adjacent vertebrae, providing load support and preventing migration, while allowing for in-situ bone grafting and fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fusion bearing device is placed between adjacent vertebrae to provide load support, then spinal stability is improved, but the device may migrate from its intended position
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate components: a fusion bearing device that provides load support between vertebrae, and a separate retention device that prevents migration. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the bearing device for spinal stability and the retention device for position retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device and fusion bearing device are combined into a single integrated assembly that can be implanted together. The retention device couples to the fusion bearing device to form a unified construct that provides both load support and migration prevention in one implantation procedure.
2Reliability
If additional fixation devices are used to prevent migration, then device position retention is improved, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device integrates multiple fixation functions into a single component that couples directly to the fusion bearing device. This merging eliminates the need for separate fixation devices while maintaining migration prevention capabilities, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents migration of the fusion bearing device, provides structural support, and facilitates bone growth. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized fixation components.
3Strength
If the fusion bearing device has a substantial profile to provide structural support, then load bearing capacity is improved, but the device requires more space and may interfere with surrounding structures
Solution Approach 1:
The load-bearing function and retention function are segmented into separate devices. The fusion bearing device can be optimized for load bearing with appropriate strength and geometry, while the retention device adds minimal volume but provides the necessary constraint against migration.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention device prevents migration by utilizing dimensional constraints - it couples to the fusion bearing device in a manner that restricts movement in multiple directions without requiring a substantial increase in the overall volume of the implant construct.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to an interbody fusion device comprises a fusion bearing device and a retention device and further comprises two bone screws that pass through the retention device and into the vertebral bodies. When implanted, the construct is flush with the anterior face of the vertebras and provides support and temporary fixation for the ultimate fusion of the vertebral bodies.