Modular Interspinous Fixation with Rotatable Screw Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation systems are large and complex, requiring extensive surgical exposure and operation time, and do not adequately accommodate individual patient anatomy or treatment needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular interspinous fixation system using interchangeable modular inserts and plates that can be sized and shaped to fit specific anatomical spaces, with a coupling mechanism that allows for compression and secure locking of the plates together using a rotatable screw.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spinal fixation systems are used, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but the device size is large and requires extensive surgical exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into separate modular components including a first plate, second plate, and interchangeable inserts that can be independently selected and assembled. This segmentation allows for a more compact overall device while maintaining stabilization functionality through coordinated action of the separate elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate structure serves multiple functions: providing structural support for spinal stabilization, offering attachment points for various interchangeable inserts, and enabling compression through the coupling mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby reducing overall device volume.
2Reliability
If traditional spinal fixation systems are used, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but operation time is extensive
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple interchangeable inserts are prepared in advance with different configurations to match various anatomical requirements. The surgeon can pre-select the appropriate insert based on preoperative planning or intraoperative assessment, eliminating the need for complex intraoperative adjustments or custom fabrication, thereby reducing operation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for dynamic selection and exchange of inserts during surgery based on the specific anatomical conditions encountered. This adaptability enables the surgical team to quickly respond to varying patient anatomy without extending operation time, as the modular design facilitates rapid interchange of components.
3Reliability
If traditional spinal fixation systems are used, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but adaptability to individual anatomy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Different interchangeable inserts provide localized adaptations for specific anatomical variations. Each insert can be designed with particular geometries, heights, or configurations tailored to match specific patient anatomy or pathological conditions, allowing the same basic plate structure to accommodate diverse individual requirements while maintaining reliable stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables adjustment of critical parameters such as insert height, width, or structural configuration by exchanging different inserts. This parameter variability allows precise matching to individual patient anatomy and treatment needs, significantly enhancing adaptability while preserving the core stabilization function through the consistent plate and coupling mechanism.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular inserts are introduced, then adaptability to individual anatomy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into standardized plate components and interchangeable inserts, the complexity is distributed across separate elements rather than concentrated in a single complex device. This modular segmentation allows each component to remain relatively simple in design while the combination provides overall adaptability, effectively managing device complexity through systematic organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal plate structure serves as a platform that can accommodate multiple different inserts through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single plate design to work with various inserts, reducing the need for multiple specialized plate designs and thereby controlling overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
5Measurement precision
If modular components are used, then surgical precision is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into modular components enables precise selection and placement of each element according to specific surgical requirements. This precision is achieved through the ability to choose the appropriate insert size and configuration, and to position each component accurately during assembly, with the standardized interfaces ensuring proper alignment and fit.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are combined into integrated assemblies - the insert is mounted to the first plate as a unified component, and both are coupled to the second plate through the coupling mechanism. This merging reduces the effective number of separate handling components during surgery while maintaining the precision benefits of modularity in the selected and assembled configuration.
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
Enables more precise and minimally invasive spinal stabilization by allowing for selection of appropriate modular components during surgery, facilitating tailored fixation and reduced surgical complexity while providing effective bone compression.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable screw that compresses the first and second plate members together
Data Source
AI summary
A modular interspinous system is shown having a first plate, a generally opposing second plate and a modular insert that may be removably or permanently secured to the first plate. The first plate has a coupling means, coupler or connection system in the form of a screw that may be permanently or non-permanently docked or supported in the first plate. The modular insert is adapted, sized and shaped to expose at least a portion of the screw thread of the screw and that portion may cooperate with at least one mating female thread in the second plate, thereby enabling a user to rotate the screw in order to drive the first and second plates towards or away from each other and, for example, into compression with bone.