Spinal Interbody Implant Endcap Torsional Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal implants for treating musculoskeletal disorders, such as degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis, often fail to provide a strong and stable connection between the implant and vertebral endplates, leading to inadequate support and potential subsidence, especially during lateral or sagittal bending of the vertebrae.
Innovation Solution
A spinal implant system featuring extended or widened endcaps with a rotate and lock connection mechanism, which engages with the apophyseal ring and cortical rim of vertebral endplates, providing a stronger connection and resistance to torsional forces, along with various connection mechanisms for static or expandable implants, and the use of materials like Nitinol for flexibility and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional spinal implants are used, then the implant can be inserted between vertebrae, but the connection between the implant and vertebral endplates is weak and unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The implant is divided into multiple functional components including endcaps with engagement features, a body portion, and movable members that can independently perform specific functions such as engagement, support, and locking, thereby achieving stronger and more reliable connections
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member is positioned within the body portion and can move between retracted and extended positions, with the engagement feature nested within the endcap structure, allowing for compact design while maintaining strong connection capabilities
2Ease of manufacture
If the implant structure is simplified, then the implant is easier to manufacture and insert, but the resistance to torsional forces during lateral or sagittal bending is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The endcaps are designed with specific engagement features localized at the interfaces with vertebral endplates, providing enhanced torsional resistance precisely where needed during lateral or sagittal bending, while the rest of the implant structure remains relatively simple for easy manufacture and insertion
Solution Approach 2:
The implant utilizes composite construction with different materials optimized for specific functions: the endcaps and engagement features are designed for strong mechanical interlocking, while the body portion provides structural support, achieving both ease of manufacture and torsional resistance
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 implant system effectively resists torsional forces and provides enhanced stability and support to the vertebrae, reducing the risk of subsidence and improving mechanical support, allowing for better vertebral alignment and bone growth promotion.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resiliently biased member extending from the endcap and disposable with a slot of the mating part of the cage
Implementation Method 2
The implant may be an expandable cage
Data Source
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AI summary
An interbody endcap includes a wall having a first surface connected to an interbody implant and a second surface including an arcuate portion configured for engagement with a vertebral endplate surface. The second surface extends outwardly from the interbody implant to at least adjacent a perimeter of the vertebral endplate surface. Systems and methods are disclosed.