Deformable Spinal Coupling Member Snap-Fit Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical treatments for spinal disorders, such as scoliosis and degenerative disc disease, often require invasive procedures and may not adequately address deformity, pain, and mobility issues, with existing implants like vertebral rods and bone screws being limited in their stabilization and alignment capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A spinal implant system featuring a longitudinal element with fixation elements and a deformable coupling member that provides a snap-fit engagement with the fixation elements, allowing for minimally invasive, percutaneous, or open surgery techniques to stabilize and align the spine, using materials like stainless steel, titanium, and PEEK for biocompatibility and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional vertebral rods and bone screws are used for spinal correction, then stabilization and alignment capabilities are provided, but the surgical procedure becomes highly invasive with significant tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is divided into two separable parts that can be assembled around the longitudinal element after implantation. This segmentation allows for minimally invasive insertion of individual components followed by assembly, reducing the need for large surgical openings and extensive tissue dissection while maintaining stable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second part of the coupling member is designed to be inserted through the hollow bore of the first part, creating a nested configuration. This nesting approach enables the components to be delivered through small incisions and assembled in situ, significantly reducing surgical invasiveness compared to traditional rod and screw systems that require large exposure.
2Reliability
If traditional spinal implants are used, then fixation is achieved, but the surgical procedure requires large incisions and extensive tissue dissection
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal element is pre-formed with engagement features that will receive the coupling member parts. The first part of the coupling member is prepared with a hollow bore and engagement features that match the longitudinal element. These preliminary preparations allow for quick assembly during surgery without requiring complex intraoperative shaping or adjustment, maintaining fixation strength while reducing surgical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary component that connects the longitudinal element to the fixation elements (screws or hooks). This intermediary structure provides a standardized interface that simplifies the surgical procedure by decoupling the insertion of the longitudinal element from the attachment of fixation elements, allowing for minimally invasive techniques while maintaining reliable fixation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid coupling structures are used to ensure stable fixation, then alignment is maintained, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides structural support for alignment, serves as a connector between the longitudinal element and fixation elements, and offers a standardized interface for assembly. This merging reduces the overall device complexity compared to systems that separate these functions into multiple distinct components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member is designed with universal engagement features that can accommodate different types of fixation elements (screws, hooks, or other anchors) and can be used with various longitudinal element configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components, simplifying the overall system while maintaining alignment stability across different surgical scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal correction system includes at least one longitudinal element extending between a first portion and a second portion. At least one fixation element includes a first end and a second end that is configured for penetrating tissue. A coupling member is configured for disposal about the at least one longitudinal element. The coupling member includes a first part and a second part being movable relative to the first part between a first orientation and a second orientation such that an inner surface of the parts are fixed with the at least one longitudinal element. The parts include an outer surface such that in the second orientation, the coupling member is configured for a snap fit engagement with the at least one fixation element such that the parts are fixed with the first end. Methods of use are disclosed.