Adjustable Spinal Distraction Rod with Spring-Biased Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for scoliosis, such as bracing and fusion surgery, have limitations in effectiveness and invasiveness, particularly for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with Cobb angles between 20° and 40°, where bracing is ineffective and fusion surgery leads to long-term spinal stiffness and potential complications.
Innovation Solution
A spinal distraction system with adjustable rods that can be non-invasively elongated, featuring anchor rods with spring-biased tabs, rotational joints, and articulating joints, allowing for minimal invasive procedures and adjustable distraction forces to correct spinal curvature without fusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If bracing is used for scoliosis correction, then non-invasive treatment is provided, but effectiveness is insufficient for Cobb angles between 20° and 40°
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the external mechanical bracing system with an internal distraction rod system that applies controlled mechanical forces directly to the spine. The distraction rod with adjustable length and spring-biased tabs provides more effective mechanical correction than external braces by operating internally within the spinal column.
Solution Approach 2:
The distraction rod acts as an intermediary device between the vertebrae, providing a controlled mechanical interface that can apply corrective forces. The spring-biased tabs serve as intermediaries between the rod and bone, allowing for controlled engagement and force application without direct rigid contact.
2Shape
If fusion surgery is performed for scoliosis correction, then spinal alignment is improved, but long-term spinal stiffness and mobility restrictions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The distraction rod system is designed as a dynamic, adjustable device rather than a static fusion construct. The rod length can be non-invasively adjusted over time to accommodate spinal growth and correction progression, maintaining flexibility and avoiding the permanent stiffness associated with fusion surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the correction process into adjustable phases, allowing gradual spinal realignment rather than immediate rigid fixation. The spring-biased tabs engage incrementally with the bone, providing controlled, progressive correction that preserves spinal dynamics.
3Reliability
If adjustable distraction forces are applied through the spinal distraction system, then correction effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows adjustment of the distraction rod length parameter to change the applied distraction force. By modifying this single geometric parameter, the correction effectiveness can be optimized without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased tabs provide automatic engagement and force application once the rod is positioned. The springs self-regulate the distraction force based on the rod length, eliminating the need for complex external adjustment mechanisms during operation.
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 system enables non-invasive, adjustable spinal correction, reducing the need for invasive surgeries, maintaining optimal distraction forces, and minimizing stress on spinal hardware, thus providing a more reliable and durable treatment option for scoliosis.
Implementation Method 1
the anchor rod having one or more spring-biased tabs disposed at one end thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal distraction system, according to one aspect, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, the anchor rod having one or more spring-biased tabs disposed at one end thereof, and a connector having first end and a second end, the first end having a receiving cup configured for detachable mounting on the anchor rod, wherein the one or more spring-biased tabs are configured to engage with an inner surface of the receiving cup, the connector having a second end operatively coupled to an end of a first member and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject.