Polyaxial Spinal Connector with Translation Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spinal fixation rods and vertebrae stabilization devices face challenges in accommodating geometric misalignment, requiring adjustable cross connectors to ensure stability and strength in spinal stabilization procedures.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising connector members with polyaxial movement capabilities, including a translation member and locking mechanism, allows for adjustable alignment and secure fixation of spinal fixation elements, enabling flexible alignment and secure locking of rods and vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cross connector is designed to accommodate geometric misalignment between spinal fixation rods, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a polyaxial mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the rod engagement angle. The first and second connector members can rotate relative to each other about a common axis, enabling the connector to adapt to various geometric misalignments between spinal fixation rods while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The cross connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a first connector member for engaging the first rod, a second connector member for engaging the second rod, and a polyaxial joint mechanism connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to solve the geometric misalignment problem
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the polyaxial movement, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-contained within the connector assembly. The polyaxial joint includes integrated locking features that automatically engage when the desired angular position is reached, eliminating the need for external locking devices or complex multi-component assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the polyaxial rotation mechanism. The same structural elements that enable angular adjustment also provide the locking capability, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device while maintaining both adjustability and stability
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for coupling first and second adjacent vertebrae. The device includes a first coupling element and a second coupling element. The first coupling element has a first body portion for receiving a first bone fastener and an elongate rod portion extending transversely from the first body portion. The second coupling element has a second body portion for receiving a second bone fastener and an extension portion extending transversely from the second body portion. The extension portion defines a recess sized and configured to receive the rod portion of the first coupling element. When unlocked, the rod portion is moveable in the recess to allow for rotational and translational movement of the first and second coupling elements. When locked, the relative position of the first and second coupling elements is fixed.