Pivotable Interbody Spacer Single-Step Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) procedures are cumbersome due to the need for a two-step insertion process of the spacer, requiring release and tamping, which is technically demanding and traumatic for patients.
Innovation Solution
A pivotable interbody spacer system with a retractable latching mechanism and matching interior teeth, allowing simultaneous pivoting and insertion through a nerve foramen, eliminating the need for spacer release and tamping during placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional two-step insertion process is used, then spacer can be placed in anterior disc space, but insertion process is cumbersome and technically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the release and tamping operations into a single integrated step by designing the spacer with a pivotable body that allows simultaneous insertion and positioning. The frictional engagement between spacer teeth and instrument teeth enables the spacer to be both inserted and released in one continuous motion, eliminating the need for separate release and tamping steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer incorporates a pivotable body that can rotate during insertion, transitioning from an engaged state with the insertion instrument to a released state within the disc space. This dynamic capability allows the spacer to be inserted through a narrow foramen and then pivoted into its final anterior position, making the insertion process more efficient and less technically demanding.
2Ease of operation
If spacer is released and tamped in separate steps, then positioning can be achieved, but procedure is more traumatic for patients
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the release and tamping operations into a single pivotable insertion step, the procedure reduces the number of manipulations required within the disc space. This minimizes disturbance to surrounding tissues and bone structures, thereby reducing surgical trauma while still achieving proper spacer positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer is pre-configured with frictional engagement features that allow it to be securely held during insertion and then smoothly released into position. This preliminary design enables the spacer to self-position with minimal manual manipulation, reducing the need for repeated adjustments that could cause additional tissue trauma.
3Loss of time
If single-step insertion is used, then surgical time is reduced, but precise positioning must be achieved simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable body design allows the spacer to dynamically transition from the insertion instrument into its final position within the disc space. This dynamic insertion process maintains precision by allowing controlled rotation and positioning, while still achieving the goal of single-step insertion that reduces surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional engagement between the spacer teeth and instrument teeth serves as an intermediary mechanism that facilitates precise positioning during the single-step insertion. This frictional interface allows for controlled movement and accurate placement, ensuring that the spacer is positioned correctly even though the entire process occurs in one continuous motion.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
According to one exemplary embodiment, a pivotable interbody spacer (100) system includes an insertion instrument (200) configured to manipulate a pivotable interbody spacer (100) during surgical insertion, wherein the insertion instrument (200) includes means for coupling the interbody spacer (100) and a means for fixing the angular position of the interbody spacer. According to one exemplary method for inserting the interbody spacer (100) in a spinal disc space, the interbody spacer (100) is coupled to the insertion instrument (200) and fixed at a first angular position; the interbody spacer (100) is inserted into the surgical site; the interbody spacer (100) is released from the first angular position; the insertion instrument (200) is pivoted about the coupling such that the interbody spacer (100) is in a second angular position; the angular position of interbody spacer (100) is fixed in the second angular position; the insertion process continues until the interbody spacer (100) is positioned in the desired location.