Multiaxial Spinal Receiver With Tether Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation implants lack adequate adjustability and require additional anchoring devices, increasing surgical complexity and space occupation due to their uniaxial design and limited tether management capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The development of multiaxial receivers with U-shaped cavities for longitudinal rods and lower cavities for pedicle screws, featuring apertures and immobilization assemblies with set screws and wedges to securely manage and stabilize tethers in both vertical and horizontal directions, allowing for multiaxial orientation and adjustable tether immobilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If uniaxial anchoring devices are used, then the construct is simpler, but the adjustability and space efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver is designed as a multiaxial device that can accommodate tethers in multiple directions (vertical and horizontal) within a single component, eliminating the need for separate anchoring devices for different orientations. This multi-functional design provides adjustability while maintaining construct simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of multiple anchoring devices into a single multiaxial receiver that integrates both vertical and horizontal tether management capabilities. The receiver body, apertures, and immobilization assemblies work together as one unified component rather than separate devices.
2Reliability
If additional anchoring devices are added, then tether management is improved, but the space occupied and surgical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multiaxial receiver performs multiple tether management functions within a single device, including vertical and horizontal tether passage, immobilization, and stabilization. This eliminates the need for multiple separate anchoring devices and reduces surgical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is divided into functional segments including the receiver body, apertures for tether passage, and immobilization assemblies with set screws and wedges. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniaxial design is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but spatial usage and adjustability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The design transitions from uniaxial to multiaxial configuration, adding dimensional capability to accommodate tethers in multiple directions. The receiver body includes apertures oriented in both vertical and horizontal directions, enabling three-dimensional tether management within a compact footprint.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multiaxial receivers provide enhanced adjustability and reduced surgical complexity by allowing secure tether management and immobilization, minimizing additional device requirements and optimizing spatial usage within the implant construct.
Implementation Method 1
the wedge may be configured to pin the tether against a bearing surface of the first passageway
Implementation Method 2
an immobilization assembly including a set screw and a wedge. The set screw may be disposed within the threaded aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A multiaxial receiver may include a body having a U-shaped cavity configured to receive a longitudinal rod therein and a lower cavity configured to couple to a pedicle screw. The multiaxial receiver may include a first passageway configured to permit a tether to pass therethrough in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the multiaxial receiver may also include a second passageway configured to permit a tether to pass therethrough in the horizontal direction. An immobilization assembly including a set screw and a wedge may immobilize the tether. The immobilization assembly may be configured to be rotated from an open position in which the tether is permitted to pass through the first passageway to a closed position in which the tether is immobilized within the first passageway or second passageway by pining the tether against a bearing surface of the first passageway.