Multi-piece intervertebral implant with segmented layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intervertebral implants lack versatility and accuracy in fitting different spinal levels and patient sizes, and they do not effectively utilize multi-layered designs with various mating features to enhance stability and integration with vertebral bodies.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-piece intervertebral implants comprising multiple layers with various mating features such as waffle patterns, block features, and bore holes, which can be securely attached using fixation devices like screws or pins, allowing for customizable sizing and improved integration with vertebral bodies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current intervertebral implants are used, then the implantation procedure can be completed, but the implants lack versatility and accuracy in fitting different spinal levels and patient sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is divided into multiple layers (first layer, second layer, third layer) that can be selectively combined. Each layer has specific functions: the first layer provides superior vertebral body contact, the second layer contains the bore hole for fixation, and the third layer provides inferior vertebral body contact. This segmentation allows customization for different spinal levels and patient sizes while maintaining overall implant functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer design creates a universal implant system that can accommodate different spinal levels and patient anatomies. The standardized interface features (mating features with complementary geometries) allow the same basic component design to be used across multiple applications, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If current intervertebral implants are used, then the implant can be inserted, but they do not effectively utilize multi-layered designs with various mating features to enhance stability and integration with vertebral bodies
Solution Approach 1:
The implant comprises multiple layers (first layer, second layer, third layer) that are operably attached through defined interfaces. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for specific functions while maintaining stable attachment through the mating features and complementary geometries at the interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The mating features utilize asymmetric complementary geometries between layers, where protrusions on one layer fit into corresponding recesses on adjacent layers. This asymmetric design provides stable, directional attachment that prevents disassembly while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and facilitating precise alignment during implantation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single-piece implants are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but they lack customizable sizing and effective integration with vertebral bodies
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is manufactured as separate layers (first layer, second layer, third layer) that can be produced using standardized processes and then assembled. This segmentation enables customizable sizing by selecting and combining appropriate layers for different patient anatomies and spinal levels, while each individual layer can be manufactured efficiently using conventional techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple separately manufactured layers are combined through operable attachment at defined interfaces. The mating features with complementary geometries facilitate this merging process, allowing standardized components to be assembled into customized implant configurations for different patient needs.
Data Source
AI summary
Intervertebral implants for implanting into an intervertebral space are provided. The implants can comprise one or more layers that are operably attached to one another. An implant can comprise a first layer having a first mating surface that mates with a second mating surface of a second layer. The first mating surface and the second mating surface can have features that allow them to complement each other. The implants can include one or more bore holes for receiving a fixation member. The bore holes can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal. In some cases, the bore holes will be blind bore holes.