Pivoting Bone Fixation Assembly for Rod-Free Spinal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current posterior fusion device systems for spinal stabilization are extensive, complicated, expensive, and prone to loosening of rods and screws, necessitating a more efficient and stable bone fixation solution.
Innovation Solution
A bone fixation system comprising a first fastener with a passageway and a second fastener that is pivotable within the passageway, secured by a set screw, eliminating the need for a connecting rod and minimizing parts to enhance stability and reduce loosening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If posterior fusion device systems use rods and screws for spinal stabilization, then spinal stability is achieved, but the system becomes extensive, complicated, and prone to loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated bone screw with an integrated fastener mechanism. The fastener head includes a passageway that receives a second fastener, and a set screw secures the second fastener within the passageway. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate rods and multiple screws, reducing system complexity while maintaining stabilization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the second fastener is received within the passageway of the first fastener's head. The set screw then secures the second fastener inside the passageway, creating a nested arrangement. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a compact configuration, reducing the extensive nature of traditional rod-and-screw systems.
2Reliability
If posterior fusion device systems use rods and screws for spinal stabilization, then spinal alignment is achieved, but the system is expensive and susceptible to loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple screws and rods into a single bone screw with an integrated fastening mechanism. The first bone screw includes a head with a passageway that receives a second fastener, and a set screw secures it. This consolidation reduces the number of components from multiple separate rods and screws to an integrated assembly, reducing both complexity and potential loosening points.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fastener mechanism is self-contained within the bone screw structure. The passageway and set screw are built into the first bone screw's head, allowing the device to secure itself without requiring additional external rods or separate fastening components. This self-service approach reduces dependency on additional instrumentation.
Data Source
AI summary
A bone fixation system including a first fastener, a second fastener, and a set screw. The first fastener may include a first shaft and a first head. The first head may define a passageway and may have a passageway axis. The first head may include an interior surface defining a curved seat, a front surface, and a U-shaped surface connecting each side of the front surface. The second fastener of the bone fixation system may include a second shaft and a second head shaped for disposal within the passageway such that the curved surface of the second head may contact the seat of the first head and may be pivotable about the curved surface. The set screw of the bone fixation system may secure the second head to lock the second fastener in a fixed, non-pivotable position.