Posterior Spinal Bridge Assembly with Dynamic Interconnection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinal fixation devices and cross-connectors are inadequate for providing sufficient stability and protection during spinal decompression procedures, particularly in cases where the spinal cord is exposed, and may not be usable in all scenarios, highlighting a need for an improved spinal bridge assembly and interconnection method.

Innovation Solution

A bio-compatible posterior spinal bridge assembly with static or dynamic N-level interconnection capabilities, featuring a spinal bridge configured for posterior vertebral screw assemblies and interconnection elements such as U-shaped connection members or a lordotic connection plate with slotted locking pockets, allowing for adjustable and secure linking of adjacent spinal bridges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current cross-connectors are used for stabilization of spinal fixation assemblies, then structural stability is improved, but they are not adequate or usable in all scenarios particularly during spinal decompression procedures where the spinal cord is exposed

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovestabilityVSAvoidusability in all scenarios

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The spinal bridge assembly allows transition between static and dynamic connection states through its interconnection elements, enabling adaptation to different procedural requirements. The connection plate with slotted locking pockets provides adjustable positioning parameters that can be modified based on whether spinal cord exposure requires dynamic movement or stabilization is prioritized.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The assembly is divided into separate modular components including the spinal bridge, interconnection elements, and connection plates that can be selectively applied. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different surgical scenarios by selecting appropriate combinations of components, particularly during decompression procedures where flexibility is needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If spinal decompression is achieved by removal of spinous processes and elongation of vertebrae, then decompression is accomplished, but overexposure of the vulnerable spinal cord and potential for post operative soft tissue cavitation occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedecompression procedureVSAvoidspinal cord overexposure and soft tissue cavitation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The spinal bridge assembly is installed beforehand to provide protective coverage over the exposed spinal cord during decompression procedures. The bridge structure acts as a cushioning element that prevents direct exposure of the vulnerable spinal cord while still allowing the decompression elongation to occur, and prevents post-operative soft tissue cavitation by maintaining structural support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The spinal bridge assembly serves as an intermediary structure between the removed spinous processes and the spinal cord. It provides the protective coverage and structural support that would normally be provided by the spinous processes, while allowing the decompression procedure to proceed without directly exposing the spinal cord.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If current spinal bridge assemblies are used, then basic bridge function is provided, but they are not adequate for providing sufficient stability and protection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebridge functionVSAvoidstability and protection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the spinal bridge provides coverage and protection, while the interconnection elements and connection plates provide stabilization and structural support. This combination of protective and stabilizing functions in one assembly makes it adequate for procedures where current separate devices are insufficient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8177814B2Posterior spinal bridge assembly providing static or dynamic N-level spinal bridge interconnection

Publication Date: 2012.05.15 LIFE SPINE INC

AI summary

A bio-compatible posterior spinal bridge assembly provides static or dynamic N-level spinal bridge interconnection between adjacent posterior spinal bridges and posterior spinal bridge assemblies. The posterior spinal bridge assembly includes a spinal bridge that is received in posterior vertebral screw assemblies that are affixed a vertebra and to laterally span the posterior side of the vertebra, and an interconnection element that allows static or dynamic connection between adjacent spinal bridges and/or spinal bridge assemblies. The interconnection element is defined by interconnection members that are carried by the spinal bridge and which provide static or dynamic connection between any number of adjacent spinal bridges/bridge assemblies. The interconnection members are attachable at various positions along the spinal bridge such as medially, laterally, or midline on the spinal bridge. Adjacent spinal bridge assemblies may thus be statically or dynamically linked, connected or coupled to one another via the interconnection members when more than one spinal bridge assembly is used.