Multi-chambered Graft Delivery System for Spinal Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interbody fusion devices often result in wasteful disposal of graft material, as the full amount packed into columns is not utilized during intradiscal space filling.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a channel associated with a multi-chambered adjustable block, allowing sequential introduction of graft material through the channel, thereby salvaging unused material and enabling combination of different graft materials at the target site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single column is packed with graft material along its full length, then the device structure is simple, but the full amount of graft material is not utilized leading to wasteful disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The single column is divided into multiple segments or chambers, each capable of holding a controlled amount of graft material. This segmentation allows for precise delivery of graft material to the intradiscal space without excessive packing, thereby reducing waste while maintaining structural organization through modular chambers.
2Device complexity
If a single column is used for graft material delivery, then the device structure is simple, but different types of graft material cannot be introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is divided into multiple independent chambers, each capable of holding different types of graft material. This segmentation enables the introduction of multiple graft material types through the same device structure, enhancing versatility without requiring completely separate delivery systems for each graft type.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-chamber device structure serves multiple functions: it can deliver different types of graft materials, control the amount of each graft type delivered, and maintain a relatively simple overall structure. This multi-functionality allows a single device to handle various graft material combinations while avoiding the need for multiple specialized devices.
3Ease of operation
If graft material is introduced in a single batch, then the delivery process is simple, but precise control over graft material placement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The graft material delivery is segmented into multiple chambers that can be activated sequentially or selectively. This segmentation provides precise control over the amount and type of graft material placed at different locations within the intradiscal space, while the overall process remains relatively simple as chambers are activated in a controlled sequence rather than requiring complex simultaneous manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for delivering bone graft material into an interbody fusion device (IBFD) in an intradiscal space of a spine, the IBFD having an open-frame with a hollow interior and an opening through its proximal end communicating with the interior. Included is an elongate channel having a lumen extending therethrough, the distal end being in engagement with the IBFD to align the lumen with the opening through the proximal end of the IBFD. An adjustable block is movably attached to the channel, the block having plural chambers containing bone graft material, the chambers being individually sequentially alignable with the lumen. A plunger pushes graft material from each chamber, through the lumen and into the IBFD. A distal end of a tamper is configured to be inserted through each chamber and the lumen and into the IBFD interior for tamping graft material deposited into the interior of the IBFD.