Spinal Deformity Correction via Adjustable Force Directing Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, often involve fusion and can lead to spinal cord damage and high loading on attachment sites, with existing devices lacking in reversibility and gradual adjustment capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising implants fixed to vertebrae, a stabilizing rod, adjustment mechanisms, and retractable force directing members, allowing for reversible and adjustable forces to be applied to individual vertebrae, enabling gradual correction of spinal deformities with or without fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If spinal fusion is performed to correct deformity, then spinal stability is improved, but flexibility and reversibility are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including threaded rods, nuts, and turnbuckles that allow the correction system to be adjusted post-implantation. The force applying members can be tensioned or relaxed to gradually correct deformity while maintaining the ability to reverse or modify the correction process, eliminating the need for permanent fusion.
2Manufacturing precision
If high distraction forces are applied to correct deformity, then correction effectiveness is improved, but risk of spinal cord damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies gradual, controlled forces through adjustable tension members rather than immediate high-force distraction. The force applying members can be incrementally tensioned to achieve correction over time, distributing the mechanical load and reducing peak forces that could damage neural structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes adjustable parameters including thread pitch, member length, and tension magnitude to control the rate and magnitude of correction. These parameters can be modified post-implantation to optimize correction effectiveness while maintaining safety margins below damage thresholds.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional fixation devices are used, then spinal stabilization is achieved, but device complexity and invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into unified components: the force applying members serve both as correction elements and as adjustable stabilization elements. The same threaded rods and tension members that correct deformity also provide spinal stabilization, eliminating the need for separate fixation hardware.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If permanent fusion is performed, then long-term stability is improved, but adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including threaded rods, nuts, and turnbuckles that allow the correction system to be adjusted post-implantation. The force applying members can be tensioned or relaxed to gradually correct deformity while maintaining the ability to reverse or modify the correction process, eliminating the need for permanent fusion.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for correcting a spinal deformity includes an implant fixed to one side of a vertebra and a rod extending along an axis of the spine on a second side of the vertebra. An adjustment member, which may include a reel, is coupled to the rod. A force directing member, such as a cable, extends between the rod and the adjustment member. The force directing member is retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member. A method of correcting spinal deformity includes providing an implant, a rod, an adjustment member coupled to the rod, and a force directing member extending between the rod and the adjustment member. The adjustment member can be retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member.