Spinal Fixation Coupling Mechanism Single Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation systems face challenges in minimizing the number of components and assembly steps, particularly with the connection between pedicle screws and linking devices, which complicates the surgical procedure and does not accommodate minimally invasive approaches effectively.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation system featuring a bone screw with a longitudinal axis and a lateral fixation rod, utilizing a coupling mechanism with a bone screw securing device and a fixation rod securing device, including a nut and collet configuration that secures both the bone screw and fixation rod with a single fastening mechanism, reducing the number of components and assembly steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional spinal fixation systems use multiple separate components (nuts, rods, plates) to connect pedicle screws and linking devices, then the connection can be achieved, but the number of components and assembly steps increases, complicating the surgical procedure and increasing surgical time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (nut, rod holder, rod securing mechanisms) into a single integrated coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism includes a body with a first passage for the pedicle screw and a second passage for the rod, with integrated securing features for both components, eliminating the need for separate nuts and rod holders.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the pedicle screw to the body, holds the rod in place, and provides a single fastening interface. The single fastening mechanism performs what previously required multiple separate fastening operations.
2Productivity
If traditional spinal fixation systems use multiple assembly steps to connect components, then the connection can be secured, but the surgical time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple assembly operations (securing the nut, attaching the rod holder, securing the rod) are merged into a single coupling mechanism that can be attached and secured in one operation, reducing the number of steps and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is pre-configured with all necessary securing features (passages, fastening mechanisms, rod holding structures) before surgery, so that during the procedure, the surgeon only needs to perform the single fastening operation without intermediate assembly steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional spinal fixation systems require multiple components and assembly steps, then connection can be achieved, but the approach cannot be effectively minimized for minimally invasive surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The reduction in component count from multiple separate parts to a single integrated coupling mechanism enables minimally invasive approaches by reducing the number of separate insertions and assemblies required through small access apertures.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment of the invention, a spinal fixation system includes a bone screw having a longitudinal access and a fixation rod configured to connect the bone screw to at least one additional bone screw. The fixation rod is lateral to the longitudinal axis. A coupling mechanism includes a bone screw securing device configured to secure the coupling mechanism to the bone screw and a fixation rod securing device configured to secure the coupling mechanism to the fixation rod. The spinal fixation system further includes a fastening mechanism. Rotation of the fastening mechanism secures the bone screw securing device to the bone screw and the fixation rod securing device to the fixation rod.