Spinal Cross Connector with Pivoting and Sliding Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cross connectors for medical devices attached to bones lack improved adjustment options and stability, necessitating enhanced designs for better engagement and alignment.
Innovation Solution
The development of cross connectors with specific geometric configurations, including members with channels, saddles, stop members, and locking mechanisms, allowing for rotatable, pivotal, and sliding movements to securely engage medical devices like rods, with adjustable set screws for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cross connectors use fixed geometric configurations without adjustment mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and precision of alignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cross connector incorporates adjustable set screws that enable dynamic modification of the connector's geometric configuration during implantation. The set screws allow the surgeon to adjust the angle and position of the connector arms to match the specific anatomical requirements, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adaptable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector features adjustable parameters through set screws that can modify the angular orientation and spatial positioning of the connector arms. By changing these geometric parameters post-manufacturing, the connector adapts to various rod configurations and spinal curvature requirements without requiring multiple different connector designs.
2Reliability
If cross connectors use simple engagement mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and stability of device engagement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: approach channels for rod insertion, set screws for positioning, and locking mechanisms for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the locking mechanism providing reliable engagement while the modular structure simplifies the overall operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector arms and engagement surfaces are pre-configured with specific geometric features and approach channels that guide the rods into the correct position before final locking. This preliminary positioning action ensures proper alignment is achieved before the locking mechanism engages, making the overall process both reliable and straightforward.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cross connectors provide multiple adjustment options, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
Adjustment capabilities are localized to specific regions of the connector where set screws are positioned on the connector arms. Each adjustment point is independently accessible and functions locally without affecting other parts of the connector, allowing surgeons to make precise adjustments in specific areas while maintaining simplicity in other regions.
Data Source
AI summary
Cross connectors, kits, and methods useful in the treatment of bones, such as vertebrae, are described herein. An example cross connector is comprised of a first member, a second member, a saddle, a locking member, and a stop member. The first member is pivotally, rotatably, and slidably moveable within a passageway defined by the second member.