Poly-Axial Pedicle Screw Kit With Multi-Use Reduction Instrument
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic implant systems require multiple instruments and steps for manipulating pedicle screws, leading to complexity and inefficiency in handling and fixation.
Innovation Solution
A lockable poly-axial orthopedic screw with a head and threaded portion that can be independently oriented, combined with a U-shaped locking element to switch between mono-axial and poly-axial modes, along with a multi-use instrument for rod reduction, set screw fixation, and screw release, and a tissue dilatation sleeve for easier implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated instruments are used for each manipulation step, then the precision and reliability of each step is improved, but the device complexity and number of instruments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The screw extender is designed as a universal instrument that can perform multiple functions: holding the screw head, receiving the rod, and facilitating manipulation. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of instruments needed while maintaining the reliability of each manipulation step through integrated design features.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate functions into a single screw extender instrument. The extender merges the functions of screw holding, rod reception, and manipulation assistance into one integrated component, thereby reducing instrument complexity while preserving operational reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a poly-axial screw design is used, then the adaptability and ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The poly-axial screw is divided into separate functional elements: a head portion and a threaded portion that can be independently oriented. The locking mechanism is segmented into a locking element with cam surface that works with a cam surface on the threaded portion, allowing independent orientation while maintaining a relatively simple locking structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw design allows dynamic adjustment during insertion where the threaded portion can rotate independently relative to the head portion to achieve the desired poly-axial orientation. The locking element with cam surface provides a simple yet effective means to lock the orientation once achieved, balancing adaptability with mechanical simplicity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the screw head and threaded portion are fixed together, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The screw design transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic one during insertion. The head and threaded portion are initially separate, allowing independent orientation adjustment. Once the desired orientation is achieved, the locking element secures the relative position, providing both manufacturing precision and operational adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw is segmented into a head portion and a threaded portion that can be independently positioned and oriented. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured with high precision independently, then assembled with the desired relative orientation through the locking mechanism, maintaining both manufacturing precision and adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
Orthopedic implant kit comprising a lockable poly-axial screw (1), a tissue dilatation sleeve (9), a screw driver, a screw extender (6), a rod (7), rod-reduction means (8), a set screw driver (26), a torque limiting mechanism (10,28) and a screw releasing instrument (26).