Multi-Axial Spinal Plate Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal deformation correction apparatuses face challenges in accurately adapting to the individual morphology of patients, particularly in the sacral region, due to the limited adjustability of existing sacral plates and their fixation methods.
Innovation Solution
The design of a modular implant system comprising a sacral plate with a multi-axial protrusion and a lateral extension plate, allowing for adjustable angle and distance configurations via bone anchoring screws and a connector system that can pivot and rotate, enabling precise fixation to both sacral and iliac bones, and accommodating various patient morphologies with different geometric models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-angle sacral plate with lateral extension is used, then the plate can be fixed to the sacrum and iliac bone, but the adaptation to exact patient morphology is only approximate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed-angle plate design with an adjustable angle plate that can be modified intraoperatively. The plate includes an adjustable lateral extension with a bone anchoring screw that can be positioned at different angles relative to the sacral plate body, allowing adaptation to various patient morphologies while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by enabling the bone anchoring screw angle to be varied within a specific range (e.g., 30-60 degrees) relative to the sacral plate. This parameter adjustment capability allows the same plate design to accommodate different patient anatomies by changing the insertion angle of the iliac bone fixation screw, thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple specialized plate variants
2Manufacturing precision
If a modular implant system with adjustable components is used, then precise alignment and force distribution are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the sacral fixation system into distinct modular components: the sacral plate body, the adjustable lateral extension, and the bone anchoring screw. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled with precise geometric relationships, achieving accurate alignment through the designed connection interfaces while keeping individual component complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality through the connector system that can accommodate different rod configurations and positioning requirements. The connector with its multi-axial protrusion and slot configuration serves multiple functions: securing the rod, allowing angular adjustment, and providing stable force transmission, thereby achieving precise alignment capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Orthopedic implants are disclosed that may be used in spinal applications. In one embodiment, a plate portion is provided with a threaded protrusion on which a connector for attachment to an orthopedic rod can be fitted. The protrusion may be multi-axially orientable with respect to said plate portion. The plate portion may include a dome having an inner surface that may be of conical shape, through which a portion of the protrusion may extend. A pin may be provided to retain the protrusion in place with respect to the dome. A second plate portion may be provided, which may be integral with or movable with respect to the first plate portion, that can be connected to a bone, e.g. iliac or sacral bone.