Interspinous Space Expander with Force Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interspinous, interlaminar stabilization devices face challenges in achieving a secure and rigid attachment to the spinous processes, leading to potential migration or slipping out of position, and require accurate sizing and expansion of the interspinous, interlaminar space for proper implantation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with a pivoting hinge and angled leg extensions, featuring a spring bias mechanism and a combination distance and force measurement component, allows for precise measurement of the interspinous, interlaminar space height and applied force, ensuring correct sizing and secure attachment of the stabilization device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flexible ligaments or sutures are used to secure the device, then the device can be implanted with less invasive procedure, but the attachment rigidity is insufficient leading to device migration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple attachment mechanisms (sharp barbs for initial anchoring, flexible ligaments for soft tissue integration, and bone screws for rigid fixation) into a single hybrid stabilization device. This merging of attachment strategies allows the device to achieve both ease of implantation and strong, migration-resistant fixation by utilizing the advantages of each mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs composite construction with different materials optimized for specific functions: rigid components (metal barbs and screws) provide structural strength and anchoring, while flexible components (ligaments or sutures) provide soft tissue compatibility and shock absorption. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between invasive procedure requirements and attachment strength.
2Strength
If bone screws are used to affix the devices, then secure rigid attachment is achieved, but the device complexity and implantation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-formed sharp barbs and integrated ligament structures that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. These preliminary structures enable initial anchoring and soft tissue integration before bone screws are applied, simplifying the overall implantation process by breaking it into staged actions rather than requiring all components to be installed simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional modules: sharp barbs for initial bone engagement, flexible ligaments for soft tissue securing, and bone screws for final rigid fixation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the implantation process by allowing selective use of components based on surgical needs.
3Productivity
If the interspinous space is not properly expanded, then the implantation procedure is simpler, but the device fit is poor leading to instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs expandable or adjustable device components that can dynamically adapt to the interspinous space dimensions. The device structure allows for expansion or adjustment during implantation to achieve optimal fit, ensuring stability while maintaining procedural efficiency through controlled adaptation rather than complex pre-measurement and customization.
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 instrument enables accurate evaluation and preparation of the interspinous, interlaminar space, ensuring proper fit and secure placement of the implantable device, reducing the risk of migration and promoting successful vertebral stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
a spring bias mechanism may be provided between the pair of handles
Data Source
AI summary
An interspinous, interlaminar space expander and measurement instrument for preparing an interspinous, interlaminar space between adjacent vertebrae to receive an implantable interspinous, interlaminar stabilization device is provided. The instrument includes an indicator which measures both height of the space and applied force to maintain that height.