Spinal Implant Adapter for Modular Rod-to-Anchor Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors in spinal fixation constructs lack modularity and adjustability, making it difficult to attach them in tight spaces and maintain their position during assembly, especially when a rod-to-anchor connection is required.
Innovation Solution
The development of implant adapters that allow a single connector to be used interchangeably for rod-to-rod, rod-to-anchor, or anchor-to-anchor attachments, featuring a body with a rod-receiving channel, a locking element, a clamping arm, and a bias element that enables adjustable positioning and secure locking, including snap and drag features for provisional retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current connectors are used for rod-to-rod or anchor-to-anchor attachment, then the connectors provide effective reinforcement and torsional stability, but it is difficult to attach the connector in tight spaces and maintain the connector in a desired position and orientation during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a connector body and a distinct adapter. The adapter can be attached to the rod or anchor independently, then the connector body is attached to the adapter. This segmentation allows the adapter to be positioned in tight spaces first, followed by the connector body, simplifying the assembly process in constrained anatomical locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the rod/anchor and the connector body. It provides a standardized interface that facilitates attachment in tight spaces and maintains proper positioning and orientation during assembly. The adapter acts as a mediator that resolves the spatial and orientational challenges of direct connector-to-rod attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current connectors are designed for rod-to-rod or anchor-to-anchor attachment, then the connectors provide stable connection, but they do not allow for rod-to-anchor connections
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a universal interface that can connect to both rods and anchors. By attaching the adapter to either a rod or anchor, the same connector body can be used for rod-to-rod, rod-to-anchor, or anchor-to-anchor configurations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different connector types while maintaining stable connections across all configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connectors lack modularity and adjustability, then the connector design is simplified, but it reduces options for the surgeon and increases the number of parts that must be made available for the surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter-connector system provides multiple surgical configurations (rod-to-rod, rod-to-anchor, anchor-to-anchor) using a limited set of components. The adapter serves as a versatile interface that enables different connection types without requiring multiple specialized connectors, thereby reducing the total number of parts while maintaining surgical flexibility.
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 adapters provide improved modularity and ease of use in tight spaces, offering tactile feedback and secure attachment options, allowing for flexible positioning and locking of connectors across various spinal anatomy configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the bias element can urge the clamping arm against a rod received in the channel to apply a drag force to the rod
Implementation Method 2
a locking element received through the opening of the body; wherein the adapter has a locked configuration in which the clamping arm is configured to clamp a rod against the channel of the body to prevent movement between the rod and the adapter
Data Source
AI summary
Implant adapters and related methods are disclosed herein. Exemplary adapters can allow a single connector to be used interchangeably for rod-to-rod, rod-to-anchor, or anchor-to-anchor attachment. In some embodiments, the adapter can fit within tight spaces, can be adjustable in one or more degrees of freedom, or can be configured to "snap" onto a rod and/or to "drag" against the rod, e.g., for provisional retention and positioning of the connector prior to locking.