Multi-Axial Spine Fixation Assembly with Segmented Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spine fixation methods require rod contouring and limited multi-axial screw positioning, increasing surgical complexity and time, and risking soft tissue and neural damage due to the need for substantial force application.
Innovation Solution
A spine fixation assembly with multi-axial screw housings and adjustable mounting elements that allow for various geometries of stabilization components, enabling segmented fixation in all directions and easy adjustment, reducing the need for rod contouring and minimizing surgical stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid rod contouring is used to connect pedicle screws, then structural stability is improved, but surgical time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the continuous rod into separate modular segments that can be independently positioned and connected. Each segment can be attached to pedicle screws without requiring continuous contouring, reducing surgical time while maintaining stability through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assemblies incorporate adjustable mechanisms that allow dynamic positioning of rod segments in multiple axes. This enables the system to adapt to varying spinal anatomies without requiring precise pre-contouring, reducing surgical complexity while maintaining structural stability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-axial screw positioning is implemented, then adaptability to spinal anatomy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is designed as a universal component that can accommodate pedicle screws with various orientations and rod segment configurations. This multi-functional design enables multi-axial positioning capability while using standardized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity
3Strength
If substantial force is applied to hold rod to screws, then fixation strength is improved, but risk of soft tissue and neural damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assemblies are pre-configured with adjustment mechanisms that allow optimal positioning and force distribution to be established before final rod attachment. This preliminary adjustment enables achieving fixation strength with minimized force application during the critical rod-holding phase, reducing risk to soft tissues and neural structures
Data Source
AI summary
A spine fixation assembly connecting a first vertebra to a second vertebra includes first and second mounting assemblies and a first spinal stabilization component. The first mounting assembly is configured to be attached to a first location of the first vertebra and includes a first bone anchor housing and first and second spinal stabilization component housings extending from the first bone anchor housing. The second mounting assembly is configured to be attached to a first location of the second vertebra and includes a second bone anchor housing and third and fourth spinal stabilization component housings extending from the second housing. The first spinal stabilization component includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end and is configured to connect the first mounting assembly to the second mounting assembly. The first spinal stabilization component housing is adapted to receive and connect to the first end of the spinal stabilization component and the third spinal stabilization component housing is adapted to receive and connect to the second end of the spinal stabilization component.