Orthopedic Coupling Device with Adjustable Length and Spatial Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling devices for orthopedic surgery, particularly in spinal correction, lack versatility and precision in length and spatial adjustments, making them cumbersome for use in both minimally invasive and open surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with adjustable length and spatial orientation capabilities, featuring a connection system with pivotable connection members and a locking mechanism using an eccentric portion, allowing for precise adjustments and easy assembly/disassembly, suitable for use with bone anchors and extensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupling device uses a fixed length design, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot adapt to different spinal segment distances and requires multiple device sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates an adjustable length mechanism that allows the distance between the first and second connection members to be dynamically changed during surgery. The length adjustment member can be actuated in a first direction to increase the distance and in a second direction to decrease the distance, enabling the device to adapt to various spinal segment configurations without requiring multiple fixed-size devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a coupling device allows spatial adjustment, then versatility improves, but the device becomes more complex and harder to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into distinct modular components including a first coupling body, a second coupling body, a connection device with first and second connection members, and a length adjustment member. Each component has a specific function and can be independently adjusted or assembled, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining spatial adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot connection between the connection members and coupling bodies enables dynamic spatial adjustment. The connection members can pivot relative to the coupling bodies to achieve different spatial orientations, and the length adjustment member provides controlled adjustment of the distance between connection members through actuation in specific directions.
3Measurement precision
If the coupling device has precise adjustment capability, then measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The length adjustment member provides precise control over the distance between connection members through bidirectional actuation. By actuating the length adjustment member in a first direction, the distance increases; by actuating in a second direction, the distance decreases. This controlled dynamic adjustment enables precise positioning while maintaining a relatively simple adjustment mechanism.
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 device enables precise and efficient adjustments during surgical procedures, facilitating simultaneous correction of multiple spinal segments with a space-saving design, suitable for both minimally invasive and open surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
the locking member includes an eccentric portion that can assume a first configuration in which the eccentric portion locks the connection member and a second configuration in which the eccentric portion releases the connection member, and wherein the eccentric portion is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration by rotating the locking member
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device includes a first coupling body configured to be coupled to a first bone anchor, a second coupling body configured to be coupled a second bone anchor, and a connection device comprising a first connection member connectable to the first coupling body, a second connection member connectable to the second coupling body, and a length adjustment member positionable between and insertable at least partially into each of the first and second connection members. The first and second connection members are movable relative to the length adjustment member. The length adjustment member can be actuated in a first direction to increase a distance between the first connection member and the second connection member, and in a second direction different from the first direction to decrease the distance between the first connection member and the second connection member.