Spinal Connector Retaining Member Pivot for Anchor Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Anchors used to secure connectors to the spinal column can loosen or back out over time due to applied forces, leading to ineffective maintenance of the connector's position relative to the spinal column, potentially impinging on adjacent tissue.
Innovation Solution
A spinal connector system featuring a monolithic connector body with a saddle and eyelet portion, incorporating a retaining member that allows initial movement relative to the anchor before securing, which is then compressed by the connecting element to fix the anchor and connector in position, utilizing a pivotable design to accommodate angular adjustments and minimize tissue intrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If anchors are used to secure connectors to the spinal column, then the connector can be fixed in position, but the anchor may loosen or back out over time due to applied forces
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining member is designed to be pivotable within the eyelet portion, allowing dynamic adjustment of the anchor's angular orientation relative to the connector. This pivoting capability enables the system to accommodate forces applied to the anchor while maintaining secure fixation, preventing the anchor from loosening or backing out over time.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the anchor is secured firmly to prevent movement, then position stability is improved, but the connector cannot accommodate forces applied to the anchor
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining member's pivotable design allows the connector to adapt to forces applied to the anchor by adjusting the angular orientation of the anchor relative to the connector. This dynamic adjustment maintains position stability while accommodating applied forces, resolving the contradiction between firm security and adaptability.
3Reliability
If the anchor is positioned to maintain connector position, then the connector's position relative to the spinal column is maintained, but the anchor may impinge on tissue adjacent its implantation location
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable retaining member allows angular adjustment of the anchor orientation, enabling the surgeon to position the anchor to maintain connector stability while avoiding impingement on adjacent tissue. The dynamic adjustment capability provides flexibility in anchor positioning to achieve both goals simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for anchoring a connector to a bony portion of a spinal column is provided. The connector is engaged to the spinal column with an anchor. The connector receives an elongate connecting element that extends along two or more vertebrae of the spinal column. The connector includes an eyelet portion that houses a retaining member through which the anchor extends. The retaining member allows movement of the connector relative to the anchor prior to engagement of the connecting element to the connector. When the connecting element is engaged to the connector, the connector is fixed relative to the anchor and the retaining member.