Spinal Anchor Locking Mechanism for Revision Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal stabilization systems require loosening and removal of existing components to add or revise stabilization members, increasing surgical complexity and duration.
Innovation Solution
A bone structure stabilization system with an anchor member and locking mechanism that allows for secure attachment and revision of stabilization members without removing existing constructs, using an anchor member with a threaded segment for bone fixation and a dual-thread locking member for secure engagement of stabilization members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing stabilization components are loosened and removed to add or revise stabilization members, then additional stabilization members can be integrated into the system, but the complexity and duration of the surgical procedure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into distinct functional portions: an upper portion that engages the stabilization member and a lower portion that threads into the anchor member. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be manipulated independently from the anchor member, enabling revision surgery without removing the entire existing construct. The segmented design permits selective access and manipulation of stabilization members while maintaining anchor member position in the bone structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member serves as an intermediary component between the anchor member (fixed in bone) and the stabilization member. This intermediary structure allows for the addition or revision of stabilization members by providing a interface that can be accessed and manipulated without disturbing the anchor member's engagement with the bone. The intermediary locking mechanism facilitates system revision while preserving the foundational anchor structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing stabilization components are loosened and removed to add or revise stabilization members, then additional stabilization members can be integrated into the system, but the duration of the surgical procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is pre-configured with threaded portions that engage both the anchor member and the stabilization member. This preliminary configuration of the locking mechanism allows for rapid attachment and revision of stabilization members without requiring time-consuming loosening and removal of existing components. The pre-designed interface enables quick integration of additional stabilization members during revision surgery.
3Reliability
If multiple stabilization members are connected to an anchor member, then comprehensive spinal stabilization is achieved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member combines multiple functions into a single component: it secures the stabilization member to the anchor member, provides a interface for additional stabilization members, and maintains the structural relationship between these elements. By merging the locking and connection functions into one integrated component, the system achieves comprehensive stabilization without proportionally increasing the number of separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed as a multi-functional component that can engage with different types of stabilization members (rods, plates, screws) while maintaining secure attachment to the anchor member. This universal interface allows a single locking member design to support multiple stabilization configurations, reducing the need for specialized components for each stabilization member type and simplifying the overall system architecture.
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
This approach reduces surgery time and the number of components needed for revisions, enabling efficient stabilization and support of the spinal column without extensive manipulation of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The anchor member includes an internally threaded segment within which the externally threaded segment of the locking member is threaded to engage the locking member with the anchor member
Implementation Method 2
A lower surface of the externally threaded segment makes contact with a surface of the first stabilization member to thereby secure the first stabilization member to the anchor member
Implementation Method 3
The cap includes an internally threaded segment that threads onto the externally threaded segment of the locking member that protrudes upwardly through the upper surface of the plate member to secure the plate member to the locking member
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal stabilization system, apparatus, and method are disclosed which include an interconnection mechanism for engaging stabilization members to one another. In one embodiment, the interconnection mechanism comprises a locking member having first and second threaded segments. An anchor member is provided having an upper segment and a lower segment, wherein the lower segment is structurally configured for engagement with a respective bone segment. A first stabilization member is connected to the upper segment of the anchor member. A locking member is engaged with the anchor member such that the first stabilization member is fixedly secured to the anchor member by a lower portion of the locking member having a first threaded segment. A second stabilization member is connected to an upper portion of the locking member by a cap that is threaded onto a second threaded segment of the locking member.