Spinal Fusion Cage With Barbed Self-Fixating Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fusion implants often require additional fixation elements like screws and may not easily adapt to changing surgical needs from motion-preserving to fusion procedures, and there is a need for a device that can be easily implanted and secured between vertebral bodies while allowing for bone growth.
Innovation Solution
A spinal implant with a shell and insert design featuring a living hinge and screw mechanism that allows for movement and secure fixation between vertebral bodies, using materials like titanium or polymer, and includes features for preventing screw backout and promoting bone growth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spinal fusion implant uses fixation elements like screws to secure the cage to vertebral bodies, then the reliability of fixation is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of implantation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cage body and fixation elements are merged into a single integrated structure. The barbed edges are directly formed on the cage body itself rather than being separate components, simplifying the device while maintaining secure fixation to the vertebral bodies through the barbed engagement mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The cage is designed to be self-fixating through its barbed edges that engage with the vertebral bodies during implantation. The bars protruding through the end plates provide automatic stabilization without requiring additional fixation elements, allowing the device to secure itself upon placement
2Adaptability or versatility
If a spinal implant is designed to allow movement between adjacent vertebral bodies (motion preserving), then the adaptability to different surgical needs is improved, but the stability and fusion reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cage is designed with universal applicability for both motion-preserving and fusion procedures. The same cage structure can be used in different surgical contexts, with the barbed edges providing secure engagement for fusion while the overall design allows for potential motion preservation applications, eliminating the need for different implant types
3Ease of operation
If the cage is initially mounted without fixation elements, then the ease of implantation is improved, but the stability during the initial healing period deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cage automatically stabilizes itself upon implantation through its barbed edges engaging with the vertebral bodies. The bars that protrude through the end plates provide inherent stabilization during the initial healing period, eliminating the need for separate fixation elements while maintaining adequate stability
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention teaches an improved spinal fusion implant and method of implanting same. The implant includes a shell and an insert, the insert capable of situating first and second plates of the shell with respect to each other and of preventing unwanted loosening of fasteners placed through the shell and into the adjacent vertebral bodies. The method includes implanting a shell, selecting an insert from a plurality of inserts, and placing an insert between first and second plates of the shell.