Multi-Axial Spinal Coupling Assembly Angular Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal implant coupling assemblies are cumbersome due to multiple components, leading to suboptimal orientation and engagement with the spinal anatomy, making it difficult to achieve an optimal fit and stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly system with an anchor member, a receiver member, and a seat member that allows for sagittal angle adjustment, enabling the connecting element to be securely positioned along various orientations, including non-orthogonal angles, by restricting movement to a plane that includes both the implantation and receiver axes, and utilizing a securing member to lock the element in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multi-component coupling assemblies are used to secure implants to spinal screws, then the implant can be stabilized, but the complexity of the assembly increases and makes placement and manipulation cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coupling components into a single integrated coupling assembly that includes a body, securing member, and connecting element interface. This merging of components reduces the overall number of parts while maintaining the stabilization function, making the assembly less cumbersome during surgical placement and manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform multiple functions: securing the implant to the screw, providing angular adjustment, and stabilizing the spinal column. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing overall assembly complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed-orientation coupling assemblies are used, then the structure is simpler, but the ability to accommodate complex spinal anatomy and achieve optimal orientation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly incorporates dynamic adjustability features that allow the connecting element to be positioned at various angles relative to the implant. The securing member can be adjusted to different orientations and then locked in place, providing adaptability to complex spinal anatomy while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly allows for parameter changes in the orientation and angle of the connecting element relative to the implant. By enabling adjustment of these geometric parameters, the assembly can accommodate various spinal anatomies and achieve optimal engagement without requiring a completely complex mechanical structure.
3Reliability
If traditional coupling assemblies with multiple components are used, then the implant can be secured, but the time required for surgical placement and manipulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple coupling components into a single integrated assembly, the surgical placement process is simplified. The surgeon handles one piece rather than multiple separate components, reducing the time required for placement while maintaining secure fixation through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly is designed with pre-configured features that facilitate quick placement. The securing member and connecting element interface are arranged to enable rapid engagement and locking, reducing the time required for surgical manipulation while ensuring reliable fixation is achieved.
Data Source
AI summary
Coupling assemblies and systems and methods are provided with an anchor member movably coupled with a receiver member extending along a receiver axis. A seat member is movable in the receiver member to assume any one of a plurality of orientations corresponding to an orientation of a connecting element extending through the receiver member transversely to the receiver axis.