Spinal Fixation Rod Retaining Element with Biasing Member

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinal fixation systems face challenges in securely anchoring bone fixation elements at customized angles and preventing loosening due to vibrational forces, which can lead to patient discomfort and the need for corrective surgeries.

Innovation Solution

A spinal fixation system featuring a coupling element with a biasing member, a retaining element with a concave surface and crimping portion, and a securing element that applies constant force to the fixation rod and bone fixation element, allowing for rotational adjustment before insertion and preventing movement post-insertion, while using a locking mechanism to secure the system against loosening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the bone fixation element is secured within the coupling element at a substantially 90 degree angle, then the insertion structure is simplified, but the ability to secure devices at customized angles is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomized angle insertionVSAvoidcoupling element structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element incorporates a retaining element with a concave surface that permits rotational movement of the bone fixation element during insertion, then locks it in place. This dynamic capability allows the system to transition from a fixed 90-degree constraint to a customizable angle configuration, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If a compression means is used to reduce movement of the fixation rod, then lateral movement is reduced, but rotational movement is not always prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixation rod stabilityVSAvoidrotational movement prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining element features a substantially concave surface designed to receive and contact the fixation rod. This curved geometry provides superior rotational stability compared to flat compression surfaces, as the concave shape naturally resists rotational displacement while maintaining lateral compression, thus resolving the contradiction between lateral stability and rotational prevention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Strength

If compression means are used to secure the fixation rod, then initial fixation is achieved, but loosening may occur over time due to vibrational forces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinitial fixation strengthVSAvoidlong-term fixation reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The biasing member is configured to apply a constant forcing relationship between the securing element and the fixation rod. This self-adjusting mechanism automatically compensates for loosening tendencies caused by vibrational forces, maintaining consistent compressive force without requiring external intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between initial strength and long-term reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Ease of operation

If a securing element is used to anchor the fixation rod, then fixation is achieved, but the system may become loose over time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixation installationVSAvoidfixation retention

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The biasing member creates a feedback mechanism where the constant force it applies to the securing element ensures continuous engagement with the fixation rod. This active feedback system detects and counteracts loosening forces in real-time, maintaining reliable fixation while preserving the ease of initial installation, thus resolving the contradiction between operational ease and long-term retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 rigid and customizable fixation, reducing lateral and rotational movement of the fixation rod and bone fixation element, maintaining stability over time and preventing loosening due to vibrational forces, thus enhancing surgical outcomes and patient comfort.

Implementation Method 1

a biasing member located on a lower portion of the securing element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a crimping portion, wherein the crimping portion at least partially compresses when a force is exerted on the retaining element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS8906068B1Spinal fixation system and method

Publication Date: 2014.12.09 BEDOR BERNARD M

AI summary

A spinal fixation system (1) for use in the fixation of a spine having a securing element (18) having a biasing member (21) located on a lower portion (44) of the securing element (18); and a substantially concave surface (25) dimensioned for at least partially circumscribing a fixation rod (15); and a retaining element (22) having: a substantially concave top surface (23) dimensioned for at least partially circumscribing a fixation rod (15); an outwardly extending wing (16); a crimping portion (42), wherein the crimping portion (42) at least partially compresses when a force is exerted on the retaining element (22); and a substantially concave bottom surface (24) dimensioned for at least partially circumscribing a head (11) of a bone fixation element (9).