Modular Crossbar Spinal Prosthesis for Facet Joint Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal prostheses lack modular designs that are configurable and adaptable to various spinal anatomies and disease states, particularly in replacing facet joints, which limits their ability to restore proper biomechanical function and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A modular spinal prosthesis system with configurable and adaptable components, including crossbars, cephalad and caudal prosthesis elements, and fixation elements, that can be selectively assembled to fit individual patient anatomy, allowing for adjustable width, length, and orientation to replace facet joints and restore spinal biomechanical functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current spinal prostheses are used, then spinal joint replacement can be performed, but the prosthesis cannot be configured to fit various spinal anatomies and disease states
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal prosthesis is divided into multiple modular components including crossbars, cephalad and caudal prosthesis elements, and fixation elements. Each component can be independently selected and assembled to match specific anatomical requirements, enabling customization without requiring entirely different prosthesis designs for each patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with standardized interfaces and configurable geometries that allow a single set of component types to serve multiple anatomical configurations. The crossbars and prosthesis elements can be assembled in various orientations and combinations to accommodate different spinal anatomies and disease states, making the system universally applicable.
2Reliability
If current spinal prostheses are used, then spinal joint replacement can be performed, but the prosthesis cannot be selectively assembled to restore proper biomechanical function
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is segmented into functional modules (crossbars for structural support, cephalad and caudal elements for joint replacement, fixation elements for anchoring) that can be independently configured to restore specific biomechanical functions while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows dynamic configuration of the prosthesis assembly based on the patient's specific biomechanical requirements. Components can be selectively assembled to create customized load paths and movement characteristics that match the patient's natural spinal mechanics.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular spinal prosthesis having one of both of adaptable and configurable components are provided. The modular spinal prosthesis described herein provide an artificial articular configuration to replace damaged, worn or otherwise removed spinal facet elements.