Lumbosacral Interspinous Stabilization Device with Anchor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interspinous vertebral stabilization devices cannot be implanted between the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first sacral vertebra due to the absence of a spinous process in the sacrum, limiting their applicability to patients with spinal conditions affecting this region.
Innovation Solution
A lumbosacral interspinous stabilization device is developed, comprising a spacer body with adjustable sections and an anchor assembly that includes a fixation rod and bone anchors, allowing secure placement between the lumbar vertebra and the sacrum, with flexible and compressible designs to accommodate varying spinal movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current interspinous stabilization devices are used, then stabilization between vertebrae with spinous processes is achieved, but implantation between L5 and S1 is impossible due to absent spinous process in sacrum
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion for engagement with the lumbar vertebra, an anchor portion for engagement with the sacrum, and a connecting section. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, enabling implantation in the lumbosacral region despite the anatomical differences between vertebrae with spinous processes and the sacrum without a spinous process.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides stabilization between adjacent vertebrae like traditional interspinous devices, and simultaneously adapts to the unique lumbosacral anatomy by engaging both the lumbar spinous process and the sacrum. This multi-functionality extends the applicability of interspinous stabilization to previously untreated lumbosacral conditions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid stabilization is provided, then vertebral alignment is controlled, but spinal motion and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting section between the body portion and anchor portion is designed with flexible or articulating characteristics, allowing the device to accommodate physiological spinal motion while maintaining stabilization. This dynamic design enables the device to adapt to varying spinal positions and movements rather than imposing rigid fixation, preserving natural spinal flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable parameters such as flexible materials with specific stiffness characteristics, articulating joints with controlled ranges of motion, and geometry that can be modified to match patient-specific anatomy and motion requirements. These parameter changes allow optimization between stabilization and motion preservation based on clinical needs.
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 effective stabilization of the lumbosacral region, allowing for controlled spinal motion and reversible deformation, thus addressing the limitations of existing devices by enabling implantation between the lumbar and sacral vertebrae, improving treatment options for patients with spinal conditions.
Implementation Method 1
flexible and compressible designs to accommodate varying spinal movements
Implementation Method 2
flexible and compressible designs to accommodate varying spinal movements
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
Implantable devices are provided for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae and the lumbosacral region of a patient. The devices can comprise an interspinous flexible spacer body (12) having a substantially U-shape comprising a superior section (34) , inferior section (32) , and a midsection (30) extending therebetween. The superior and/or inferior sections can include a pair of lateral walls (36) configured to engage a spinous process of a vertebra. Fixation caps can be provided for securing a spinous process of a vertebra to the flexible spacer body. To secure the flexible spacer body between the lumbar vertebra and an adjacent vertebra, an anchor assembly (14) is provided. Also described are methods of using the implantable devices to stabilize a patient's spine.