Spinal Fixation Device with Nested Helical Anchors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization methods lack an orthopedic fixation device with improved locking force that resists migration and rotation, and requires rapid and easy deployment within the spine.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation device with a distal bone anchor and a proximal anchor that provides compression across two vertebrae, featuring a helical locking structure and adjustable compression mechanism, allowing for angular adjustment and easy deployment through various anatomical pathways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fixation systems with rods, plates, and screws are used for spinal stabilization, then spinal fixation is achieved, but the locking force is insufficient and resistance to migration and rotation is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device employs a nested structure where the distal anchor is positioned within the vertebral body, the fixation device body extends from the anchor, and the proximal anchor is positioned within the second vertebral body. The fixation device body is received within the canal formed by the distal anchor, creating a nested configuration that provides enhanced locking force and resistance to migration and rotation through multiple levels of structural integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal anchor is configured as a helical screw that is rotated into the first vertebral body, creating a curved, screw-thread engagement with the bone. This helical curvature provides superior anchoring and locking force compared to straight fixation elements, as the rotational engagement distributes forces along the curved path and increases frictional resistance to migration.
2Reliability
If precise anchor placement is required for effective spinal fixation, then stabilization is improved, but the complexity and time for deployment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device allows for adjustment of compression forces and anchor positions after initial placement. The proximal anchor can be positioned at different depths within the second vertebral body, and the fixation device body can be adjusted to modify the compression applied between the two vertebral bodies. This adjustability provides effective stabilization without requiring extremely precise initial placement, as parameters can be optimized during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device incorporates dynamic elements that allow for adjustment and adaptation during deployment. The proximal anchor can be advanced or retracted along the fixation device body, and the compression force can be modified by adjusting the position of the proximal anchor. This dynamic capability enables the surgeon to optimize stabilization effectiveness without requiring perfect precision during initial placement.
3Productivity
If traditional fixation devices are used, then spinal fixation is achieved, but rapid and easy deployment is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is divided into distinct segments: a distal anchor portion, a fixation device body, and a proximal anchor portion. This segmentation allows each component to be independently prepared and positioned, enabling rapid assembly and deployment. The distal anchor can be placed first, followed by insertion of the fixation device body, and finally the proximal anchor, creating a modular deployment sequence that is both fast and easy to perform.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device is designed to be pre-assembled or pre-positioned in a ready-to-deploy configuration. The distal anchor can be pre-loaded into the fixation device body, and the entire assembly can be inserted as a unit or in a predetermined sequence. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex intraoperative assembly steps, significantly reducing deployment time while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a fixation device for spinal fixation. The fixation device includes an elongated body comprising a bone anchor at a distal end. An axially moveable proximal anchor is carried by the proximal end of the fixation device. In one embodiment, the device is inserted through a first vertebra and the bone anchor is rotated into positioned within a second vertebra. The proximal anchor is distally advanced with respect to the bone anchor to provide compression across the first and second vertebra. In other embodiments, the device is used to secure stabilization devices across two or more vertebra.