Revision Spinal Fixation Plate Extension Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation systems face challenges in effectively stabilizing the spine and promoting bony fusion, particularly in cases where adjacent spine levels require additional fixation after initial fusion surgery, necessitating a revision system that can extend existing fixation elements to adjacent vertebrae while minimizing rotation and promoting dynamic movement.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation system comprising an elongated extension member with locking projections and flexible couplers that can be attached to existing spinal fixation elements, allowing for extension to adjacent vertebrae while maintaining dynamic relationships, using materials like polyetheretherketone or silicone for flexibility and biocompatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid spinal fixation system is used to stabilize the spine, then stabilization strength is improved, but dynamic movement capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by incorporating a dynamic element within the bone anchor that allows controlled movement between the bone anchor and the fixation plate. This dynamic element enables the system to provide stabilization strength while simultaneously allowing dynamic movement capability, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and flexibility in spinal fixation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed spinal fixation system is used to prevent rotation, then rotational stability is improved, but adaptability to adjacent vertebrae deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fixation system into modular components including a bone anchor, a fixation plate, and a dynamic element. The bone anchor can be selectively engaged with different vertebrae, and the dynamic element provides controlled movement capability. This modular segmentation allows the system to maintain rotational stability at each fixation point while adapting to different adjacent vertebrae configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex revision system is used to extend fixation to adjacent vertebrae, then fixation coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a fixation system where the bone anchor and fixation plate components can serve multiple functions. The bone anchor can be engaged with different vertebrae at different levels, and the fixation plate can be configured to extend to adjacent vertebrae. The dynamic element provides both stabilization and controlled movement functions. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve extensive fixation coverage without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system is provided that joins a revision fixation plate to a previously implanted skeletal fixation plate. In one form, the system allows the previously implanted plating system to be revised without disturbing the original implant components. In one aspect, the connection includes joining the revision fixation plate to a previously implanted fastener. In another aspect, the revision fixation plate is directly joined to a previously implanted fixation plate. In yet another aspect, the connection includes forming a dynamic relationship between the previously implanted plating system, the revision fixation plate, and the affected vertebrae. In one form, the dynamic relationship enables movement between the previously implanted plating system and the affected vertebrae and in another form, the dynamic relationship enables movement between the previously implanted plating system and the revision fixation plate.