Resilient Connector for Dynamic Spinal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation devices are static and do not allow for dynamic movement, which can lead to diminished effectiveness over time due to natural wear and tear or additional trauma, necessitating supplementary stabilization that must work around existing hardware.
Innovation Solution
A supplementary spinal fixation/stabilization device with a resilient elastomeric connector that connects to existing spinal fixation constructs at two locations, allowing for dynamic movement and providing additional support between vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static spinal fixation devices are used to stabilize vertebrae, then initial stabilization is achieved, but the effectiveness diminishes over time due to natural wear and tear and does not allow for dynamic movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static fixation components with dynamic elements. Specifically, the resilient connector (element 16) allows controlled movement and flexing between vertebrae while maintaining stabilization. This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to natural spinal movement and wear over time, preventing the diminishment of effectiveness that occurs with static devices.
2Stability of the object's composition
If static spinal fixation devices are used, then fixation is provided, but they do not allow for bending or flexing between vertebrae
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient connector (element 16) embodies the dynamics principle by providing a connection that is both stable and adaptable. It maintains fixation stability while allowing controlled bending and flexing between vertebrae, enabling the device to accommodate natural spinal movement rather than restricting it completely.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient connector changes its mechanical parameters (flexibility, resistance) based on the movement and load conditions. It provides greater resistance during abnormal movements while allowing controlled flexing during normal spinal motion, thus adapting its properties to maintain stability while permitting necessary movement.
3Reliability
If supplementary stabilization is added to existing spinal implants, then additional support is provided, but the device must work around previously installed hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The supplementary device is designed with universal connectors that can attach to various types of existing spinal hardware (rods, plates, screws). The first connector (element 12) and second connector (element 14) are configured to work with previously installed implants, providing supplemental stabilization without requiring custom configurations for different hardware types.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient connector (element 16) acts as an intermediary element that bridges the first and second connectors, allowing the supplementary device to interface with existing hardware while providing its own stabilization mechanism. This intermediary connection simplifies the integration process with various existing implant types.
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 device offers dynamic inter-vertebral connection and supplemental stabilization, enhancing the stability of the spine by allowing for bending or flexing between connectors, thus addressing the limitations of static devices and providing additional support where needed.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient and/or elastomeric connector joining the first and second connectors
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal implant provides supplemental and dynamic fixation and/or stabilization of the spine via connection to one or more existing or new spinal fixation and/or stabilization spinal constructs. The supplementary spinal fixation/stabilization implant has a first attachment device configured to couple to an existing or new spinal fixation/stabilization construct and a second attachment device configured to couple to the existing or new spinal fixation/stabilization construct at a second location. The first and second attachment devices are joined to each other via a resilient connector that allows dynamic movement between the first and second attachment devices.