Spinal Correction System with Asymmetric Pedicle Screws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal correction systems for scoliosis fail to provide preoperative calculation of corrective forces, leading to unpredictable and variable surgical outcomes, as they apply the same methodical correction to both convex and concave sides of the spine, despite differing deformities requiring opposite forces, and do not account for the rotational nature of scoliosis deformity.
Innovation Solution
The system employs different pedicle screws on the convex and concave sides of the spine, allowing for specific corrective forces in distinct planes to achieve a three-dimensional correction, with preoperative calculation of rod curvature and telescopic spacers to manage biomechanical stresses and prevent pull-out forces, enabling predictable and measurable intraoperative corrections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the same methodical correction is applied to both convex and concave sides of the spine, then the surgical procedure is simplified, but the correction precision deteriorates because differing deformities require opposite forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different correction methods to different regions of the spine. Specifically, the convex side receives one type of correction while the concave side receives a different correction, with each side tailored to its specific deformity characteristics. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by maintaining surgical simplicity through standardized procedures while achieving precision through region-specific correction strategies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent recognizes that scoliosis deformities are asymmetric, with convex and concave sides requiring opposite corrective forces. The surgical approach deliberately applies asymmetric correction strategies - using different rod configurations, screw placements, and force application methods for each side - thereby achieving precise correction of the complex three-dimensional deformity while maintaining procedural simplicity through systematic asymmetry.
2Reliability
If preoperative calculation of corrective forces is implemented, then the correction predictability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple pedicle screws and alignment members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preoperative calculation and planning of corrective forces, rod curvatures, and screw placements. This preliminary action allows the surgical team to predict correction outcomes before surgery, reducing variability and improving reliability. The complex device configuration is systematically planned in advance, transforming device complexity into a controlled, predictable process through preoperative simulation and measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the correction system into discrete, manageable components - individual pedicle screws, separate alignment elongated members, and segmented corrective rods. Each component can be independently calculated, positioned, and adjusted according to preoperative plans. This segmentation allows complex corrective forces to be broken down into manageable vector components, improving predictability while maintaining systematic control over device complexity.
3Reliability
If telescopic spacers are used to manage biomechanical stresses, then the reliability of the correction is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates telescopic spacers that can dynamically adjust to biomechanical stresses during and after surgery. These spacers provide controlled movement and stress distribution, allowing the system to adapt to varying loads and forces. This dynamic capability improves correction reliability by preventing stress concentration and pull-out forces, while the telescopic mechanism adds only minimal complexity compared to rigid alternatives.
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional correction of the curvatures of the spine, for reducing spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, uses a pair of pedicle screws placed on each of the spinal vertebrae of the spine to be corrected, in combination with alignment elongated members or extenders temporally fixed by a proximate portion and associated with corrective rods engaged with the extenders, running along a transverse plane. Each of the corrective rods provides implant rods.