Spinal Cross Connector with Movable Clamp for Non-Parallel Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal cross connectors are difficult to mount and maintain in the correct position and orientation with spinal fixation devices, particularly when rods are not parallel, and their complex designs increase surgical complexity and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation system with a cross connector that includes a coupling member with side-loading or top-loading rod-receiving recesses, featuring a locking mechanism using fastening elements and movable members like wedges to securely attach to spinal rods without anchoring to bone, facilitating easier installation and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional clamp assemblies are used for cross connectors, then the connection can be achieved, but the surgical application becomes tedious and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cross connector is divided into separate modular components: a body portion with a rod-receiving cavity, a clamp portion that can be independently positioned, and a fastening element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the assembly process during surgery, as components can be prepared separately and then quickly assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
A distal extension acts as an intermediary component between the rod-receiving cavity and the clamp portion. This extension facilitates the attachment process by providing a transition structure that simplifies the connection between the spinal rod and the clamp mechanism, making the overall assembly more intuitive and less complex.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cross connectors are used, then connection is possible, but maintaining correct position and orientation becomes difficult when rods are not parallel
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp portion is designed to be movable relative to the body portion, allowing dynamic adjustment of the cross connector's orientation and position. This mobility enables the device to adapt to various rod configurations including non-parallel rods, while the fastening element secures the final position once proper alignment is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross connector allows for changes in geometric parameters such as angle and position through the movable clamp mechanism. This enables adaptation to different rod orientations and spacings, providing versatility for various spinal anatomies and surgical requirements without compromising ease of placement.
3Reliability
If complex clamp assemblies are used, then connection can be achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the cross connector into standardized modular components, each part can be manufactured independently using optimized processes. This reduces tooling costs, simplifies quality control, and allows for economies of scale in producing each individual component, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design with standardized components creates universal parts that can be used across different cross connector configurations and spinal fixation systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components, lowering tooling and manufacturing complexity while ensuring reliable connections through proven design elements.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone.