Spinal Cross-Connector with C-Shaped Arm and Rack Mechanism
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal cross-connectors used in orthopedic surgeries are complex and require numerous mechanical parts and actions for placement and fixation, which complicates the stabilization of posterior spine elements and resistance to movement during orthopedic surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A spinal cross-connector design featuring a coupling member with a c-shaped arm and a rack that provides a selectively adjustable overlapping mechanical engagement, along with set screws with a curved or conical profile to secure orthopedic rods, minimizing the number of mechanical parts and actions needed for fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex clamping arrangements and telescoping assemblies are used in spinal cross-connectors, then the connector can effectively grip orthopedic rods and span the space between them, but the number of mechanical parts and required mechanical actions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the clamping function and the spanning function into a single integrated C-shaped body structure. The C-shaped body simultaneously provides the gripping surfaces for the rods and the structural bridge between them, eliminating the need for separate clamping arrangements and telescoping assemblies. This merging of functions directly reduces the number of mechanical parts while maintaining effective gripping and spanning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped body serves multiple functions: it acts as the structural bridge spanning between rods, provides gripping surfaces through its arms, and incorporates the set screw mechanism for securing the rods. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If complex clamping arrangements are used to secure orthopedic rods, then the fixation is maintained effectively, but the number of mechanical actions required for placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The set screw mechanism is integrated directly into the C-shaped body structure, combining the securing action with the existing structural elements. This integration eliminates the need for separate complex clamping operations, reducing the number of mechanical actions required while maintaining effective fixation. The set screw works in conjunction with the gripping surfaces already provided by the C-shaped body arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped body structure is designed to automatically position and hold the rods through its geometry, with the set screw simply needing to be tightened to secure them. The structure itself provides the gripping surfaces and positioning, requiring minimal active intervention during placement. This self-positioning capability reduces the complexity of the placement procedure while ensuring reliable fixation.
3Device complexity
If minimized mechanical parts are used in spinal cross-connectors, then the placement process is simplified, but the ability to stabilize posterior spine elements and resist movement may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The C-shaped body integrates multiple structural functions into a single robust component. By combining the bridge structure, gripping surfaces, and securing mechanism into one integrated body, the patent achieves effective stabilization without requiring multiple separate parts. The integrated structure provides continuous support and resistance to movement while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped body utilizes curved geometry to provide optimal gripping surfaces and structural strength. The arcuate shape of the C-body allows it to effectively embrace and hold the rods while distributing forces evenly, providing strong stabilization capability with a single integrated component rather than requiring multiple rigid mechanical parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal cross-connector for connection between adjacent first and second rods and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a coupling member including a bar extends from a body portion opposite to and in longitudinal axial alignment with a c-shaped arm. A second coupling member which includes a rack extends from a body portion opposite to and in longitudinal axial alignment with a another c-shaped arm. The rack is superposed in a selectively adjustable overlapping mechanical engagement with the bearing surface. Each c-shaped arm includes an arcuate extension extending substantially parallel to the bar to define a gripping pocket. A set screw includes a conical profile that extends substantially perpendicular to the arcuate extension. The advance of the set screw is operable to urge the rod into pressing contact with the gripping pocket to secure the rod therein.