Segmented Spinal Rod Assembly for Gradual Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for scoliosis, including bracing and major surgery, are inadequate in preventing progression of spinal curvature and maintaining normal spinal motion, often leading to complications such as stiffness, chronic pain, and hardware failure.
Innovation Solution
A segmented rod assembly for gradual three-dimensional spinal alignment, comprising a hollow rod segmented into sections that can be drawn together by cables or a flexible shaft, allowing for a contoured alignment that approximates the ideal spinal configuration, with tensioning mechanisms to restore and maintain normal spinal alignment without fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If segmental instrumented spinal fusion is performed to straighten the spine, then spinal alignment is improved, but spinal motion is lost and complications such as stiffness and chronic pain occur
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is divided into multiple segments that can be independently adjusted and connected. This segmentation allows the spine to be aligned while preserving natural motion at each segmental level, avoiding the complete rigidity of traditional fusion surgery. The modular design enables gradual correction without requiring complete spinal fusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented rod assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through tensioning members and connection mechanisms that allow the rod to adapt to spinal motion. This dynamic system maintains alignment while accommodating physiological movement, preventing the stiffness and pain associated with rigid fusion constructs.
2Manufacturing precision
If major robotic surgery is performed to correct severe scoliosis, then spinal alignment is improved, but the risk of complications such as death, paralysis, and infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented rod design allows for less invasive surgical implantation compared to traditional major robotic surgery. The modular components can be implanted through smaller incisions with reduced tissue disruption, lowering the risk of life-threatening complications while achieving effective spinal alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod can be pre-contoured or pre-shaped before implantation to match the desired spinal alignment. This preliminary preparation reduces the complexity and risk of intraoperative manipulation, allowing for safer surgery with fewer complications.
3Stability of the object's composition
If spinal fusion is performed to hold the spine in position, then spinal alignment is maintained, but normal growth and movement are precluded
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented rod allows the spine to be stabilized in alignment while maintaining segmental flexibility. Each segment can move independently, preserving normal spinal growth patterns and physiological motion, unlike complete fusion which rigidly locks all segments together.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning members and connection mechanisms allow adjustment of rod tension and segmental positioning over time. This enables the system to adapt to spinal growth and changing mechanical requirements, maintaining alignment while accommodating ongoing development and motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A segmented rod assembly for aligning a spine including a plurality of vertebrae, including a rod, including a plurality of segments, the plurality of segments having at least a first segment arranged to be connected to a first vertebra of the spine, the first segment including a first body and at least one tang extending from the first body, and a second segment arranged to be connected to a second vertebra of the spine, the second segment including a second body and at least one channel arranged in the second body, wherein the at least tang is operatively arranged to engage the at least one channel, and at least one tensioning member arranged within the plurality of segments, the at least one tensioning member having a first end secured to the first segment and a second end.