Minimally Invasive Spinal Compressor Distractor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-level compressors/distractors in spinal fusion surgery lack the ability to provide both linear and lordotic/kyphotic compression or distraction, and they require inefficient assembly due to external threaded mechanisms, which can complicate alignment and require larger incisions.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive multi-level compressor/distractor instrument that decouples from its threaded mechanism for easier assembly, utilizing internal support tubes for strength and set screw engagement, allowing for both linear and lordotic/kyphotic manipulation through a ratcheting rack and pinion system and pivoting arms, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If current multi-level compressors/distractors use external threaded mechanisms for assembly, then mechanical advantage is achieved, but assembly complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the threaded mechanism inside the support tube rather than externally. The internal threading system is nested within the tubular structure, allowing the compression and distraction forces to be applied through a compact, integrated design that reduces assembly complexity while maintaining mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The support tube acts as an intermediary element that houses the threaded mechanism and transmits forces. This intermediary structure mediates between the external manipulation and the internal spinal construct, simplifying the assembly process by providing a unified interface for applying compression and distraction forces.
2Device complexity
If current multi-level compressors/distractors provide only linear compression or distraction, then simple mechanism is maintained, but ability to manipulate lordosis at targeted spinal segment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic capabilities by allowing the support tube to perform both linear movement (for compression/distraction) and angular rotation (for lordosis/kyphosis manipulation). This dynamic design enables the single instrument to adapt to multiple surgical requirements without complicating the overall mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The support tube is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it provides structural support, transmits linear compression and distraction forces, and enables angular manipulation for lordosis/kyphosis correction. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized instruments.
3Strength
If external support structures are used for strength during compression or distraction, then structural integrity is achieved, but larger incision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is nested within the support tube itself, which serves as both the structural element and the delivery instrument. This internal placement of support structures eliminates the need for external attachments that would require larger incisions, while maintaining full structural integrity during compression and distraction maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The support tube functions as a flexible yet strong structural element that can be inserted through a minimally invasive approach. The tubular design provides necessary structural integrity for withstanding compression and distraction forces while maintaining a compact profile that allows insertion through smaller incisions compared to rigid external support structures.
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
Enables precise and minimally invasive spinal segment manipulation with internal support, allowing for both linear and angular adjustments without the need for larger incisions, improving surgical efficiency and reducing assembly complexity.
Implementation Method 1
ratcheting rack and pinion system
Implementation Method 2
threaded mechanism
Implementation Method 3
pivoting arms
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-level compressor/distractor instrument that provides both linear and lordotic/kyphotic induced compression and distraction.