Interbody Implant Insertion Guide for Stable Screw Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal implant insertion methods face challenges such as improper orientation, instability during insertion, excessive instrumentation, and screw backout due to lack of rotational restraints, leading to potential implant failure and performance issues.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an insertion tool with asymmetrical prongs and a drill guide that secures to the tool, allowing for directional engagement and stabilization, along with a locking mechanism for fasteners to prevent backout, reducing the need for multiple instruments and enhancing implant stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If symmetrical engagement features are used on the instrument and implant, then the implant can be engaged easily, but the implant may be engaged upside down leading to improper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing engagement features on the implant that are asymmetric about the central axis, and corresponding asymmetric engagement features on the insertion instrument. This ensures that the implant can only be engaged in the correct orientation, preventing upside-down placement while maintaining ease of engagement. The asymmetric geometry creates a unique fit between the instrument and implant that guarantees proper orientation.
2Productivity
If rotational restraint is not incorporated into engagement features, then the implant can be engaged quickly, but the implant may move or become unstable relative to the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric engagement features inherently provide rotational restraint because the asymmetric geometry prevents rotation once engaged. The unique fit between asymmetric features on the instrument and implant creates a stable connection that resists movement while allowing quick engagement without additional rotational restraint mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple standalone instruments are used for implant placement and screw insertion, then each function can be performed specialized, but the number of instruments required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the implant placement function and screw insertion guidance function into a single integrated insertion instrument. The instrument includes both the engagement features for securing the implant and the drill guide features for inserting screws. This integration reduces the number of separate instruments needed while maintaining the specialized functions required for proper implant placement and fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion instrument is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an implant holder and a drill guide. The single instrument can perform multiple operations including securing the implant to the vertebral body and guiding screw insertion, thereby reducing the overall complexity of the surgical instrumentation set.
4Ease of manufacture
If screws are inserted without rotational restraint, then insertion is simpler, but screws may back out leading to implant failure
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric engagement features provide rotational restraint that prevents screw backout. The asymmetric geometry creates a mechanical lock that resists rotational forces attempting to back out the screws, while still allowing straightforward insertion. This inherent rotational restraint is built into the engagement mechanism itself, providing screw retention without complicating the insertion process.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a system that includes an insertion tool and a drill guide. The insertion tool includes a body with a distal portion and a distal end. The body has a first engagement feature extending longitudinally along the distal portion and two arms extending longitudinally from the distal end of the body. The drill guide includes two bores and an open faced channel therebetween. The open faced channel includes a second engagement feature slidably engageable with the first engagement feature on the body of the insertion tool. The two bores are adapted for the disposal of a fastener driver tool therethrough.