Spinal Distraction System with Spring Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal distraction systems for treating spinal deformation during skeletal growth are burdensome, requiring repeat operations, leading to unphysiological strains and potential spinal fusion, which hinders continuous growth and is incompatible with natural spinal motion.
Innovation Solution
A spinal distraction system comprising a bearing connector, a fixated rod, and a sliding rod with a spring and stop ring, allowing for continuous distraction and sagittal motion, adjustable force, and reduced growth resistance, enabling gradual and physiological spinal elongation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If repeat operations are performed to elongate the spine, then spinal length is increased, but tissue strain becomes unphysiological and growth may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides continuous distraction force between vertebrae, eliminating the need for repeated surgical operations. The spring gradually elongates the spine through sustained physiological force, preventing the unphysiological strains associated with periodic lengthening procedures while maintaining continuous spinal growth.
2Stability of the object's composition
If static fixation is applied after surgical release, then spinal stability is improved, but continuous growth is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixation to dynamic stabilization through a spring mechanism that allows controlled motion. The spring provides continuous distraction force while permitting physiological movement and adaptation, enabling the spine to maintain stability during growth rather than being rigidly fixed, thus supporting continuous spinal elongation.
3Length of moving object
If frequent distractions are performed, then spinal elongation is achieved, but the number of surgeries increases and burden on patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is self-actuating and requires no external power source or surgical intervention to function. Once implanted, the spring automatically provides continuous distraction force as the spine grows, eliminating the need for repeated surgical procedures. The system serves itself by converting the natural growth process into mechanical elongation without requiring periodic surgical adjustments.
4Strength
If the spine is allowed to stiffen between lengthenings, then structural stability is maintained, but physiological motion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism creates a dynamic system that maintains structural stability while permitting physiological motion. Unlike rigid fixation that completely restricts movement, the spring allows controlled distraction and motion during spinal growth, providing stability when needed while maintaining the flexibility required for normal spinal function and development.
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 provides continuous and adjustable distraction, reducing the need for frequent surgeries and minimizing tissue strain, allowing for sustained spinal growth while maintaining physiological motion and reducing the risk of fusion.
Implementation Method 1
The sliding rod includes a spring and a stop ring
Implementation Method 2
the bearing connector includes a set screw, a bearing and a housing
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A spinal distraction system (10) including a bearing connector (20) fastened to a fixated rod (14) and a sliding rod (16), wherein the sliding rod includes a spring (22) and a stop ring (18) is disclosed. A method of distracting vertebrae is also disclosed.