Spinal Cross Connector System for Vertebral Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation procedures often require multiple anchors and rods to stabilize vertebrae, which can be cumbersome and lack sufficient stability and strength, especially when multiple rods and anchors are used.
Innovation Solution
A cross connector system comprising a contoured bar, planar bar, locking system, bridge system, and rod clamp system that interconnects bone engaging members and connecting rods, allowing for adjustable and secure coupling of spinal fixation systems to enhance stability and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple anchors and rods are used to stabilize vertebrae, then the stability and strength of the fixation system is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple anchors and rods into a single integrated cross connector assembly. The cross connector features multiple arms that can each receive and secure rods, while also providing attachment points for anchors. This merging of multiple stabilization elements into one unified component maintains the required stability and strength while significantly reducing the number of separate parts that need to be implanted and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross connector is designed as a multi-functional component that can simultaneously perform multiple stabilization functions. Each arm of the cross connector can independently secure a rod, and the central body provides attachment points for anchors. This universal design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate anchors and rods, simplifying the overall fixation system while maintaining comprehensive stabilization.
2Strength
If multiple anchors and rods are used to stabilize vertebrae, then the stability and strength of the fixation system is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple anchors and rods into a single cross connector assembly, the number of separate implantation steps is reduced. The integrated design allows the surgeon to implant one component rather than multiple separate parts, simplifying the surgical procedure while maintaining the stabilizing benefits of multiple attachment points.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross connector is designed with segmented arms that can independently receive and secure rods. This segmentation allows for flexible configuration and easier adjustment during surgery, as each arm can be positioned and secured independently. The modular arm structure simplifies the implantation process compared to a monolithic design, while still providing the stability of multiple attachment points.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple rods and anchors are employed, then the stability of the vertebrae is improved, but the quantity of components and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cross connector merges multiple rod-receiving functions into a single component. The assembly includes multiple arms that can each secure a rod, all integrated into one cross-shaped structure. This eliminates the need for multiple separate anchors and rod assemblies, reducing the total number of components from what would traditionally be required to achieve the same multi-point stabilization.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The cross connector system provides additional strength and stability to spinal fixation constructs by distributing forces between interconnected fixation systems, allowing for customizable configurations to fit specific anatomical needs.
Implementation Method 1
The expansion ring includes a slot to enable the expansion ring to be expanded
Implementation Method 2
a locking device received through the expansion ring and the coupling bore for coupling the at least one bridge to the contoured bar
Implementation Method 3
at least one bridge defining a coupling bore and having a pair of downwardly extending arms adapted to be coupled to a first bone engaging member
Data Source
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AI summary
The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of a spinal fixation procedure. A cross connector system for use during a spinal fixation procedure is provided. The system includes at least one bridge defining a coupling bore and having a pair of downwardly extending arms for coupling to a first bone engaging member. The system includes a contoured bar having a first end offset from a second end, and a bore having a central axis. The system includes an expansion ring received within the bore, and a locking device received through the expansion ring and the coupling bore. The locking device is operable in a first state in which the contoured bar is movable about the central axis of the bore and in a second state in which the contoured bar fixed relative to the central axis of the bore.