Multi-Axial Orthopedic Bone Fixation Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current bone fixation devices in orthopedic and spinal surgery often require precise placement and have limited angular flexibility, which can complicate surgical procedures and reduce the effectiveness of spinal correction and healing.

Innovation Solution

A bone fixation system featuring a receiver member with a bone anchoring member that can occupy two distinct maximum angular positions relative to its axis, allowing for multi-axial positioning and adjustable angles through a rotatable base member, enabling greater flexibility and ease of placement during surgery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If monoaxial bone fixation devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the angular flexibility and adaptability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangular flexibilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic multi-axial positioning system where the bone anchoring member can rotate relative to the receiver member through a rotatable base member, allowing the angular orientation to change during surgical procedure. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the device to adapt to different anatomical configurations and surgical requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If precise placement is required for bone fixation devices, then the stability and reliability are improved, but the ease of operation and surgical complexity are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation stabilityVSAvoidsurgical placement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the angular parameter flexibility by providing a bone anchoring member that can occupy two distinct maximum angular positions (first and second maximum angular positions) relative to the receiver member's longitudinal axis. This parameter change allows surgeons to adjust the angular orientation to match anatomical variations and surgical requirements while ensuring stable fixation through the defined maximum angular positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If multi-axial positioning capability is added, then the adaptability and ease of placement are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplacement flexibilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the bone fixation device into distinct functional components: a receiver member with a longitudinal axis, a bone anchoring member with head and shaft portions, and a rotatable base member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to provide multi-axial positioning capability. The rotatable base member specifically enables angular adjustment between the bone anchoring member and receiver member.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotatable base member acts as an intermediary element between the receiver member and the bone anchoring member, mediating the angular adjustment. This intermediary component allows controlled rotation and angular repositioning without requiring complex mechanisms, as the base member specifically facilitates the angular adjustment between the other two components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8021397B2Multi-axial orthopedic device and system
Publication Date: 2011.09.20 WARSAW ORTHOPEDIC INC
  • US8021397B2 patent drawing
  • US8021397B2 patent drawing
  • US8021397B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of an orthopedic implant device and system, and methods for implanting them, are disclosed. The implant may include a receiver member having a channel for accommodating an elongated rod or other longitudinal member, a bone anchoring member such as a screw or hook, and a base member rotatable with respect to the receiver member for retaining the bone anchoring member in the receiver member. The base member is configured to allow at least two different degrees of maximum angulation of the bone anchoring member with respect to the receiver member. The number and relative direction of such angulations are independent of the orientation of the channel or other part of the receiving member.