Lockable Spinal Connector with Spring-Loaded Collet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation systems lack a simple and efficient mechanism for locking and unlocking connectors to pedicle screws, which complicates the placement and adjustment of spinal rods during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation system featuring a lockable bone screw connector with a collet mechanism that can be easily operated using a specialized tool to lock and unlock the connector to the bone screw, allowing for the secure placement and adjustment of spinal rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional bone screw connector is used without a locking mechanism, then the connector can be easily adjusted and positioned, but the connector cannot be securely fixed to the bone screw, leading to instability
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the collet can move between locked and unlocked positions. The spring-loaded collet naturally returns to a locked position after rod insertion, providing automatic securing without complex manual operations. This resolves the contradiction by making the locking mechanism both reliable and simple to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector features a self-locking mechanism where the spring-loaded collet automatically engages with the bone screw head after the rod is inserted. The system self-regulates by using spring force to maintain constant pressure on the collet, ensuring secure locking without requiring additional locking steps or complex operations from the surgeon.
2Reliability
If a rigid locking mechanism is used to secure the connector to the bone screw, then the connector is firmly fixed, but the connector cannot be easily unlocked for adjustment or removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamically reversible. The collet can be easily pushed to unlock the connector from the bone screw, allowing for simple adjustment or removal when needed. The same spring force that provides reliable locking also enables easy unlocking by simply overcoming the spring pressure, resolving the contradiction between secure fixation and ease of repair.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used in the connector system to ensure secure locking, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The collet, spring, and retention features are combined into one compact assembly that works together as a integrated unit. This merging of components provides reliable secure locking while minimizing device complexity and the number of separate parts that would need to be assembled and managed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a nested structure where the collet fits within the connector body, and the spring is contained within the collet assembly. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to be housed within a compact footprint, providing robust locking capability without increasing overall device complexity or requiring additional space.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the connector allows movement along the spinal rod for adjustment, then the positioning flexibility is improved, but the connector may become loose or unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The connector features a dynamic retention system where the spring-loaded collet maintains constant contact pressure on the bone screw head. This dynamic pressure ensures the connector remains stable and secure during movement along the spinal rod, preventing loosening while allowing positioning adjustments. The spring force automatically compensates for any movement, maintaining stability throughout the adjustment process.
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 system enables surgeons to quickly and securely lock and unlock connectors, facilitating the precise alignment and adjustment of spinal rods, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of spinal correction procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a collet member (300) compressible along a longitudinal axis of the bone screw (100) from an unlocked position to a locked position
Implementation Method 2
The engagement of the stabilizing rod (12) prevents removal of the connector (200) from the bone screw (100)
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal fixation system for use in securing a spinal rod to a vertebra using a lockable bone screw connector. The connector is configured to be movably connected to the head of a bone screw, and a spinal rod can then be used to physically connect a first vertebra to a second vertebra. The spinal fixation system includes a tool grasping the connector by a locking and/or unlocking instrument that can allow the connector to lock to the bone screw by moving a collet, while the connector can still move along the spinal rod until locked into place by a set screw. The connector can be selectively unlocked from the bone screw for adjustment or removal.