Spinal Rod Cross Connector With Sliding Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation devices with cross connectors often require multiple locking mechanisms to secure spinal rods, which can be complex and prone to instability, especially when accommodating varying spinal rod spacings and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A cross connector assembly that utilizes a single fastener with a sliding member design, where the upper fastener engages with a lower nut to lock the connector in place, providing stability and adjustability to fit different spinal rod configurations without the need for multiple locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple locking mechanisms are used to secure spinal rods, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The locking arm engages with the spinal rod through a unified structure that integrates the locking action, eliminating the need for separate set screws or multiple independent locking components while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions through a single structure: it secures the spinal rod, accommodates varying rod spacings, and maintains connection strength. The locking arm serves as both a fastening element and an adjustment mechanism, reducing the number of components needed.
2Reliability
If multiple locking mechanisms are used to secure spinal rods, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple locking actions into a single locking arm mechanism, the patent reduces the number of operational steps required during installation. The surgeon must only tighten the single locking arm rather than managing multiple set screws or locking components, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arm is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing it to accommodate varying spinal rod spacings and orientations. This dynamic capability enables reliable connection across different configurations without requiring multiple specialized locking mechanisms, simplifying the installation process.
3Manufacturing precision
If a fixed cross connector design is used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross connector incorporates a telescoping mechanism that allows the arm length to be dynamically adjusted during surgery. This enables the connector to adapt to varying spinal rod spacings while maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled telescopic segments that can be locked into specific positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross connector is divided into telescopic segments that can be adjusted relative to each other. This segmentation allows the connector to accommodate different rod spacings by extending or retracting segments, while each segment maintains precise manufacturing tolerances for reliable connection.
4Device complexity
If a single fastener design is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm incorporates a curved or spherical engagement surface that provides stable contact with the spinal rod. This curved geometry distributes contact forces more evenly, enhancing stability while maintaining the simplicity of a single fastener design. The spherical interface allows for self-alignment and stable engagement across different rod positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A cross connector assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the cross connector is configured to engage a pair of rods in a spinal implant assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross connector assembly includes at least one elongated top member having a pair of hooked-shaped ends and a pair of sliding members configured to slideably engage the at least one elongated top member. The cross connector may further include an upper fastener and a lower fastener engaged with the upper fastener configured to translate upon rotation of the upper fastener and engage the sliding members, biasing them from a first position to a second position.