Orthopedic Implant Locking Sleeve for Spinal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic devices for connecting implants to bone tissues are not user-friendly or efficient in operation, lacking in providing effective support and stability during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of an orthopedic device comprising a connector, sleeve mechanism, and locking mechanism that securely attaches an implant to a support member, allowing for adjustable positioning and secure locking to prevent relative movement, utilizing a combination of cylindrical and oblong holes, threaded sleeves, and break-off nuts for enhanced stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing orthopedic devices are used to connect implants to bone tissues, then the basic connection function is provided, but the ease of use and operational efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a connector with cylindrical and oblong holes, a support member with corresponding features, a sleeve mechanism for adjustment, and a locking mechanism for fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall device easier to operate while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve is inserted into the oblong hole of the connector, and the locking mechanism engages with both the sleeve and connector. This nested arrangement allows compact storage and assembly while enabling sequential operation during surgery - first inserting the sleeve for positioning, then engaging the lock for fixation, improving ease of operation without requiring complex external tools.
2Reliability
If existing orthopedic devices are used to connect implants to bone tissues, then connection is provided, but stability and security during surgical procedures are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-designed with both cylindrical and oblong holes, and the support member is pre-configured with corresponding cylindrical features. This preliminary preparation allows the surgeon to simply insert and lock the components during surgery without requiring complex alignment procedures, enhancing stability while keeping the surgical procedure simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to engage automatically with the sleeve and connector components once positioned, providing self-securing functionality. The break-off nut portion allows the locking mechanism to remain attached to the stable construct after surgery, eliminating the need for additional securing steps and ensuring ongoing stability without adding operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If adjustable positioning is implemented in the orthopedic device, then precision and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector features an asymmetric design with both cylindrical and oblong holes in specific orientations, while the support member has corresponding asymmetric features. This asymmetric configuration enables precise angular and positional adjustment of the support member relative to the connector, allowing accurate positioning for correcting deformities or injuries without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses are disclosed for use in orthopedic surgery, for example for procedures in which a support member is connected to the spine. A connector member for connecting to an orthopedic implant and a support member is provided. A sleeve fits around the implant, and a locking member or mechanism connects to the sleeve. Locking causes a part of the sleeve to press the support against the connector, and causes a part of the sleeve to compress around the implant, so that the implant and support are substantially inhibited or prevented from moving with respect to each other.