Planar Spring Vertebral Stabilizer for Short Pedicle Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization devices fail to adequately restrict relative motion between vertebrae, often being too long for short pedicle-to-pedicle displacements, and lack interchangeability between flexible and rigid components, leading to inadequate treatment of symptoms and unnatural spinal motion.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic stabilization system using a planar spring with a resilient member that transmits force between anchoring members, allowing for polyaxial motion and adjustable curvature to mimic natural spinal movement, combined with articulation components for relative rotation and rigid connectors for stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If linear springs are used to restrict relative motion between vertebrae, then stabilization is provided, but the springs are too long to be easily positioned between adjacent vertebrae with short pedicle-to-pedicle displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using traditional linear springs to a planar spring mechanism that operates in a different dimensional orientation. The planar spring is configured to flex out-of-plane, allowing it to accommodate short pedicle-to-pedicle displacements while still providing effective stabilization. This dimensional change enables the spring to function within the constrained space of short spinal segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic planar spring mechanism that can flex out-of-plane in response to relative motion between vertebrae. This dynamic configuration allows the spring to adapt to varying motion requirements and spatial constraints, making it suitable for both short and long pedicle-to-pedicle displacements while maintaining stabilization effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible components are used to allow relative motion between vertebrae, then motion is permitted, but fusion cannot be achieved; if rigid components are used, then fusion is provided, but interchangeability with flexible components is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal stabilizer system where the same basic structure can function in both flexible and rigid modes. The planar spring mechanism can be configured to provide either flexible stabilization or rigid fusion depending on the clinical requirement, eliminating the need for separate devices. This multi-functionality is achieved through the interchangeable nature of the components and the adaptability of the planar spring mechanism.
3Area of stationary object
If stabilization devices are implanted at multiple levels along the spine, then extensive coverage is provided, but the devices do not flexibly follow the natural curvature of the spine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic planar spring mechanisms at multiple spinal levels that can independently flex and adapt to the natural curvature of the spine. Each stabilizer module is designed to move and conform dynamically, allowing the overall device to follow the spinal curve while providing comprehensive stabilization coverage across multiple levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization system is divided into multiple independent stabilizer modules that can be implanted at different spinal levels. Each module operates independently and can flex to accommodate local curvature variations, enabling the overall device to conform to the natural spinal shape while providing extensive coverage.
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 system effectively restricts excessive vertebral motion, reduces discomfort, and allows for dynamic stabilization that follows the natural curvature of the spine, providing a more natural and effective treatment for spinal issues.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member configured to be coupled to the first and second couplings to transmit resilient force between the first and second couplings, the resilient member including a planar spring, wherein at least a portion of the planar spring flexes out-of-plane in response to relative motion between the vertebrae
Data Source
AI summary
An intervertebral stabilization device and method is disclosed. The device preferably includes a planar spring enclosed within a housing. The housing is joined to an articulation component at either end, and the articulation components have couplings connectable to anchoring components which are securable to adjacent vertebrae. The planar spring can flex and retract providing relative motion between the adjacent vertebrae. The articulation components are ball and socket joints which allow the entire assembly to flexibly follow the curvature of the spine. A fusion rod with articulation components and couplings at either end may be substituted for the spring device. The couplings enable interchangeability between a fusion rod assembly and spring assembly, so that dynamic stabilization can occur at one vertebral level and fusion at the adjacent vertebral level. An overhung spring assembly with a sideways displaced housing which allows for a shorter pedicle to pedicle displacement is also disclosed.