Lumbosacral Stabilization Device Segmentation
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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, limiting their application for patients with spinal conditions affecting this region.
Innovation Solution
Development of interspinous and lumbosacral stabilization devices with a flexible body and anchor system that can be placed between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae, including a lumbar vertebra and the sacrum, featuring a bone-contacting region, flexible fixation elements, and adjustable anchor members to secure the device to the bony surface.
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 the device cannot be implanted at the lumbosacral junction due to absence of spinous process
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a spinous process interface portion for engaging the spinous process, a body portion providing structural support, and a sacral interface portion for engaging the sacrum. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function and anatomical interface, enabling successful implantation at the lumbosacral junction where previous unified designs failed.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary structure that bridges the gap between the spinous process (which terminates at L5) and the sacrum. This intermediary body portion with its specific geometry and engagement features acts as a mediator that can interface with both the spinous process above and the sacral anatomy below, enabling stabilization at previously inaccessible locations.
2Reliability
If spinal fusion surgery is performed, then vertebral stability is achieved, but the procedure is highly invasive and significantly alters spinal anatomy and function
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential stabilization function from the complex spinal fusion procedure. Instead of performing full fusion surgery that joins vertebrae through bone grafts and significantly alters anatomy, the device provides targeted stabilization at the interspinous space, achieving the necessary mechanical support while leaving the rest of the spinal anatomy intact and preserving natural motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The device applies stabilization locally at the interspinous space rather than globally through full spinal fusion. This localized approach provides the necessary mechanical support and stability at the specific problem area while preserving the natural anatomy, motion, and function of the rest of the spinal column, thereby reducing invasiveness and anatomical alteration.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If medical management with pain medications is used, then symptom control is achieved, but chronic medication use alters patient mental state and causes negative side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides preliminary mechanical stabilization and structural support to address the underlying cause of pain and instability. By correcting the mechanical dysfunction through proper alignment and support of the spinous process and sacrum, the invention reduces or eliminates the need for chronic pain medication, thereby avoiding the negative side effects and mental state alterations associated with long-term pharmaceutical management.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides interspinous vertebral and lumbosacral stabilization devices, and methods of using these devices for treating spinal instability conditions. The invention includes interspinous vertebral stabilization devices adapted for placement between the spinous processes of two or more adjacent vertebrae. The invention also includes lumbar stabilization devices adapted to be placed between a lumbar vertebra and an adjacent vertebra, including the first sacral vertebra (S1), to stabilize the lumbosacral region of a patient, and method for using such devices.