Spinal Bar Connection Element with Interference Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connection systems between bars in spinal reconstruction systems face difficulties in positioning and securing transverse bars to longitudinal bars, leading to operational challenges and potential disengagement during spinal fixation and stabilization procedures.
Innovation Solution
A connection element with a main body having parallel, transversely arranged housing seats for longitudinal and transverse bars, featuring a set screw for tightening and interference means, such as a wire spring, to prevent sliding and secure the bars in place, allowing for precise adjustments and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamps are used to connect bars in spinal fixation systems, then the bars can be secured together, but the surgeon encounters operational difficulties in positioning and connecting the bars
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into separate functional components: a first seat for the longitudinal bar, a second seat for the transverse bar, and distinct tightening means for each seat. This segmentation allows independent positioning and securing of each bar, simplifying the surgical procedure while maintaining reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device acts as an intermediary component between the longitudinal and transverse bars, providing structured seating and tightening mechanisms that facilitate easy positioning and secure connection without requiring direct manipulation of the bars themselves.
2Reliability
If clamps are used to maintain bar connections, then the bars are secured in position, but the bars can disengage from their housing seat
Solution Approach 1:
The tightening means are designed to apply preliminary counteracting force to prevent the bars from disengaging from their respective seats. The tightening mechanism actively resists any disengagement tendency, ensuring stable positioning throughout the spinal fixation procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is pre-configured with seats and tightening means that enable immediate securement of the bars upon insertion. The preliminary structure of the seats and the positioning capability of the tightening means ensure that the bars are stabilized before any potential disengagement can occur.
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
Facilitates easier and more precise positioning of bars, preventing disengagement and simplifying the installation of spinal fixation or stiffening systems by ensuring stable and secure connections between bars.
Implementation Method 1
interference means, such as a wire spring, to prevent sliding and secure the bars in place
Implementation Method 2
a set screw for tightening
Data Source
AI summary
A connection element between bars in a spinous reconstruction system comprising: a main body; at least a first and a second housing seat for a respective first and a second bar, arranged inside said main body; a tightening means for locking the first bar and the second bar in an operative position with respect to the main body, and for preventing relative movements between the first and said second bar, wherein the connection element comprises an interference means for at least restraining the free sliding of said first bar or said second bar inside the respective housing seat. Other aspects are described and claimed.