Thin Offset Rod Connectors for Spinal Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spinal fixation systems require a large amount of space to achieve a rod offset, often necessitating the skip of a vertebral level, which can compromise the stability and strength of the construct.

Innovation Solution

The use of a plate-type or curved connector with a reduced thickness allows for the offsetting of rods in a small space, enabling secure attachment between adjacent bone anchors without the need to skip vertebral levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a rod is bent or a rod-to-rod connector is used to achieve lateral offset, then the desired offset is achieved, but a relatively large amount of space is required which forces the surgeon to skip over a vertebral level

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverod offsetVSAvoidspace required for offset

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector thickness parameter is reduced from conventional dimensions to substantially 0.5 inches or less, allowing the connector to fit in limited spaces between adjacent bone anchors without requiring vertebral level skipping

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed with a reduced thickness dimension while maintaining its offsetting function, transitioning from a conventional thick connector to a thin-profile connector that operates in the same spatial envelope

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If a conventional thickness connector is used to join offset rods, then the connector provides sufficient strength, but the connector cannot be inserted into small spaces between adjacent bone anchors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector strengthVSAvoidinsertion space

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector thickness is reduced to substantially 0.5 inches or less while maintaining adequate strength through optimized material selection and structural design, enabling insertion into limited spaces between adjacent bone anchors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The connector employs varying thicknesses in different regions - a reduced central thickness for insertion through tight spaces while maintaining adequate lateral portions for rod engagement and load transfer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20250072938A1Offset rods, offset rod connectors, and related methods

Publication Date: 2025.03.06 MEDOS INT SARL

AI summary

Devices and methods that allow a rod to be offset in a relatively small amount of space are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, first and second offset rods can be joined by a plate-type connector having a reduced thickness suitable for insertion into a small space, e.g., between adjacent bone anchors. In some embodiments, first and second offset rods can be joined by a curved connector that conforms to adjacent bone anchors and likewise has a reduced thickness.