Interspinous Device with Locking Plug for Spinal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interspinous implants for addressing spinal conditions are difficult to implant, prone to dislodgment, and challenging to remove, and can damage adjacent spinous processes.
Innovation Solution
A device with a post and rim system featuring resilient elements and latching features that allow for adjustable placement and secure fixation between spinous processes, utilizing a locking mechanism to prevent axial movement and facilitate easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing interspinous implants are used to stabilize the spinal column, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but the device becomes difficult to implant and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent components: a first member with post and rim, a second member with compression element, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manipulated during implantation and removal, simplifying the overall procedure while maintaining stabilization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from an unlocked state (allowing movement of the second member along the post) to a locked state (restricting movement). This dynamic capability enables easy adjustment during implantation and controlled removal by reversing the locking action, eliminating the difficulty of permanent fixation.
2Reliability
If existing interspinous implants are used to maintain space between vertebrae, then nerve decompression is achieved, but the device becomes prone to dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient compression element is pre-configured with latching features that automatically engage with corresponding features on the post before final locking. This preliminary action ensures the device maintains its position and decompression function while preventing dislodgment during the healing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching features on the resilient element automatically engage with the post structure when the device is properly positioned, providing self-stabilization. This self-service mechanism maintains device stability and prevents dislodgment without requiring additional active components or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If existing interspinous implants are used to stabilize adjacent vertebrae, then spinal support is improved, but the device can damage the spinous processes
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient compression element functions as a flexible component that can elastically deform during implantation and adjustment. This flexibility allows the device to adapt to anatomical variations and apply gradual, controlled forces that stabilize the vertebrae without causing damage to the spinous processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient nature of the compression element provides inherent cushioning during the implantation process. This beforehand cushioning protects the spinous processes from impact forces and excessive pressures that could cause damage, while still achieving the necessary spinal support and stabilization.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a secure locking mechanism is added to prevent dislodgment, then device stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing structural elements of the device. The latching features are integrated into the resilient compression element and post, combining the stabilization function with the locking function in a single unified structure. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching features automatically engage and disengage through the natural movement and compression of the resilient element during implantation and removal. This self-service locking mechanism eliminates the need for separate actuators, motors, or complex control systems, thereby reducing device complexity while ensuring 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 device provides stable spinal column stabilization, reduces the risk of dislodgment, and minimizes damage to spinous processes, while allowing for easy adjustment and removal.
Implementation Method 1
a post including a resilient element that is radially displaceable
Implementation Method 2
The locking plug is configured to displace the resilient element outwardly away from the longitudinal axis of the post to restrict movement of the second member along a length of the post
Data Source
AI summary
A device for placement between two adjacent spinous processes of a spinal column to treat a spinal condition, and a method for performing a procedure on a spine of a patient, are provided. The device may include a first member, a second member mounted onto the first member, and a locking plug configured to restrict movement of the second member relative to the first member. The method may include positioning a portion of a first member between two adjacent spinous processes of the spine, advancing a second member along a length of the first member, and restricting the second member from moving relative to the first member.