Spinal Fixation Rods with Adjustable Transverse Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spinal fixation systems lack the ability to accommodate varying patient anatomical characteristics, requiring a modular system that can be customized for each patient's specific needs.

Innovation Solution

A spinal fixation system comprising elongate members, pedicle screws, and adjustable transverse connectors, where the elongate members can be coupled to vertebrae using pedicle screws and interconnected with transverse connectors that are adjustable in length and angle, allowing for customizable configurations to stabilize the spine.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a modular spinal fixation system with adjustable components is used, then adaptability to patient anatomical characteristics is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to patient anatomical characteristicsVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spinal fixation system is divided into separate modular components including elongate members, pedicle screws, and transverse connectors. Each component can be independently selected and configured based on patient anatomy, allowing customization without requiring a completely different system design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transverse connectors incorporate adjustable length and angle capabilities, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to varying patient anatomical characteristics. The connectors can be adjusted intraoperatively to achieve optimal positioning and rigidity for each patient's specific spinal geometry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If transverse connectors are added to interconnect elongate members, then rigidity of the fixation system is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverigidity of the fixation systemVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transverse connectors merge the two separate elongate members into a unified rigid structure by connecting them transversely. This combination creates a more stable fixation system that resists deformation while maintaining the modular nature of the individual components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transverse connectors are designed with rotational capability along the longitudinal axis, allowing angular adjustment to match the natural curvature and orientation of the spine. This enables the rigid connection to accommodate anatomical variations without compromising structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable transverse connectors are used to accommodate anatomical variations, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to anatomical variationsVSAvoidmanufacturing precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The transverse connectors allow for adjustment of multiple parameters including length, angle, and rotational orientation. This parametric adjustability enables the same manufactured component to accommodate a wide range of anatomical variations without requiring custom-manufactured parts for each patient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The transverse connectors are designed as universal components that can be applied to various spinal configurations and patient anatomies. The standardized interface and adjustment mechanisms allow a single design to serve multiple functions across different clinical scenarios, reducing the need for highly specialized manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7833251B1System and method for performing spinal fixation

Publication Date: 2010.11.16 NUVASIVE INC

AI summary

The present invention relates to medical devices and methods generally aimed at spinal surgery. In particular, the disclosed system and associated methods relate to performing spinal fixation.