Rib Hook Devices for Spinal Deformity Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, osteoporosis, and kyphosis, often result in complications like pedicle screw pullout or lamina hook failure at points of fixation, necessitating improved implant solutions.
Innovation Solution
The development of rib hook devices and systems that couple to a patient's ribs, featuring a body with a channel and rod attachment member, allowing for secure attachment and distribution of force across the rib surface, along with a method for using these devices to correct spinal deformities by positioning and securing rib hook devices on the ribs and connecting rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pedicle screws or lamina hooks are used for spinal fixation, then upper thoracic fixation can be achieved, but fixation failure occurs at the points of attachment due to pullout or hook failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces rib hooks as an intermediary fixation device that couples to the ribs instead of directly to the vertebrae. The rib hooks serve as a mediator between the spinal column and the external fixation system, distributing forces across the rib cage structure rather than concentrating them at vulnerable vertebral attachment points. This resolves the contradiction by providing reliable fixation while avoiding the weak points where traditional hooks and screws fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system is segmented into multiple rib hook devices distributed across different ribs, rather than relying on a single attachment point. Each rib hook device independently secures to its respective rib, and the rod connects these segmented fixation points together. This segmentation distributes the mechanical loads and prevents failure at any single attachment point, resolving the reliability-strength contradiction.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixation methods are used, then spinal deformities can be addressed, but complications arise from fixation point failures
Solution Approach 1:
The rib acts as an intermediary structure between the spine and the external fixation system. By attaching rib hooks to the ribs rather than directly to the vertebrae or using pedicle screws, the system avoids the harmful complications of direct vertebral fixation while still achieving the desired spinal correction. The ribs serve as a protective intermediate layer that reduces fixation complications.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixation is anchored to the lower lumbar and upper thoracic regions, then spinal deformity correction is possible, but fixation point failures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into multiple segmented rib hook devices attached to different ribs across the thoracic region. This segmentation creates multiple independent fixation points that collectively provide spinal stabilization. The distribution of fixation points across multiple ribs enhances both stability and reliability, as failure at one point does not compromise the entire fixation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation approach transitions from vertical anchoring at discrete lumbar and thoracic levels to a distributed three-dimensional arrangement across multiple ribs. The rib hooks are positioned at different locations and orientations on the rib cage, creating a multidimensional fixation network that provides enhanced stability and reliability compared to traditional linear anchoring points.
Data Source
AI summary
Rib hook devices, systems, and methods of assembling and using the devices and systems are disclosed. The rib hook device includes a body with a first end and a second end and a rod attachment member coupled to and extending away from the second end of the body. The rib hook system includes at least one rib hook device, a first rod for engaging the at least one rib hook device, and at least one fastener for securing the first rod to the at least one rib hook device. Methods for assembling and using the rib hook devices and systems are also disclosed.