Intervertebral Spacer Bores for Linear and Curvilinear Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vertebral spacers face challenges in insertion due to anatomical irregularities, particularly at caudal or cephalad cervical disc spaces, where angled instruments interfere with patient anatomy, making fastener installation difficult.
Innovation Solution
Intervertebral spacers with bores configured to receive both linear and curvilinear fastening elements, allowing for secure fixation using a combination of linear and curvilinear fasteners, and an insertion device to guide these fasteners into position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional angled instruments are used to install conventional fasteners, then fixation can be achieved in standard spinal regions, but insertion becomes difficult in caudal or cephalad cervical disc spaces due to interference with patient anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curvilinear fastening elements with curved trajectories that conform to the natural anatomy of the spine, particularly in caudal or cephalad cervical disc spaces where straight angled instruments cannot access. The curvilinear path allows the fastener to navigate around anatomical structures like the chin and chest, enabling insertion in regions previously inaccessible to conventional linear fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The intervertebral spacer is designed with a universal fastening system that can accommodate both linear and curvilinear fastening elements through the same bore structure. This multi-functional capability allows the single device to adapt to different anatomical requirements - using linear fasteners in standard regions and curvilinear fasteners in anatomically challenging regions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Device complexity
If a single bore configuration is used in the intervertebral spacer, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to accommodate different fastener types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bore is designed as a universal receptacle that can receive both linear and curvilinear fastening elements. The cylindrical bore geometry with appropriate diameter and depth allows straight fasteners to pass through directly while also accommodating curved fasteners that follow a bent path, all through the same structural feature without requiring multiple specialized bore types.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system is segmented into modular components - the bore provides a standardized interface, while interchangeable linear and curvilinear fastening elements can be selected based on anatomical needs. This segmentation allows the simple bore structure to support complex fastening requirements through the combination of a basic receptacle with variable fastener types.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of implanting an intervertebral spacer may include positioning the intervertebral spacer within an intervertebral space defined by adjacent vertebral bodies. The intervertebral spacer may include a plurality of bores, and each of the plurality of bores may be configured to receive either a linear fastening element or a curvilinear fastening element. The method also may include selecting a first fastening element from a group including linear fastening elements and curvilinear fastening elements, and inserting the first fastening element into a first bore of the plurality of bores such that the first fastening element is inserted into one of the adjacent vertebral bodies to secure the intervertebral spacer within the intervertebral space.