Spinal Compression Device Linear Drive Pedicle Screw Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal fusion devices face challenges in accurately adjusting pedicle screws once drilled, as traditional methods are difficult to use for precise tightening or expansion, leading to potential misalignment of vertebrae during fusion surgery.
Innovation Solution
A compression device with integrated sleeves and a linear drive that allows for both compression and distraction of pedicle screws, enabling precise alignment and adjustment of vertebrae through angular or linear motion, facilitating accurate fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional stabilizer cuffs and fulcrum methods are used to adjust pedicle screws, then the surgeon can obtain a desired distance for the screws, but it becomes difficult to accurately tighten or expand the screws and set them at the correct distance apart
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compression device with sleeves that engage the pedicle screw tulips as an intermediary mechanism. The first and second sleeves act as mediators between the surgeon's control and the pedicle screws, providing precise mechanical advantage for adjustment while maintaining ease of operation through the linear drive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional manual stabilizer cuff and fulcrum mechanical system with a linear drive mechanism. This substitution provides more precise control over screw adjustment while maintaining ease of operation through automated or semi-automated linear motion control.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional fusion devices are used, then spinal fusion can be performed to decompress and stabilize the spine, but accurate alignment and adjustment of vertebrae during surgery is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines compression and distraction functions into a single integrated device. The first and second sleeves work together with the linear drive to provide both compression (bringing vertebrae closer) and distraction (separating vertebrae) capabilities, improving alignment precision without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression device serves multiple functions: it provides both compression and distraction, enables precise positioning of pedicle screws, and facilitates accurate alignment of vertebrae. This multi-functionality improves manufacturing precision while managing device complexity through a unified design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single device is used for both compression and distraction, then the effectiveness of the fusion process is enhanced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic components including the linear drive mechanism that can move the sleeves along the pedicle screws. This dynamic capability allows the device to adapt between compression and distraction modes, enhancing versatility while managing complexity through controlled mechanical motion rather than multiple static devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A compression device (100) for use in spinal surgery that includes integrated compression and distraction. The present invention provides a compression device for use in a spinal surgery comprising a first sleeve (200) having a proximal end (230) and a distal end (235), wherein the distal end of the first sleeve is arranged for placement over at least a portion of one or more pedicle screw tulip. The compression device further comprising a second sleeve (200) having a proximal end (230) and a distal end (235), wherein the distal end of the second sleeve is arranged for placement over at least a portion of one or more additional pedicle screw tulip. The compression device further comprising a linear drive (215), wherein the linear drive is operable to cause movement of the first sleeve and/or the second sleeve for compression and/or distraction.