Spinal Fixation Sleeve with Nested Jig for Rod Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jig assemblies for spinal fixation procedures require removal to secure the spine rod, leading to potential shifting of vertebrae out of position and increased procedural complexity due to multiple steps involved in tightening the rod.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation assembly with a cylindrical sleeve and locking mechanism that allows for adjustment and securement of the spine rod without removing the jig, utilizing a polyaxial screw and elongated fixation member to maintain retention force throughout the adjustment and securing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the jig assembly is removed to tighten the rod, then access to the rod is facilitated, but the rod and vertebrae may shift out of position and the procedure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The jig assembly is nested within the screw cap structure, with the jig's cylindrical wall fitting inside the screw cap's cylindrical wall. This nesting allows the jig to remain attached during rod tightening while still providing access through its open end, eliminating the need to remove the jig and preventing position shifts.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw cap is segmented into multiple functional components: a cylindrical wall forming a receptacle, an elongated slot for rod engagement, and a threaded bore for fastener engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together as an integrated system that maintains stability during adjustment.
2Productivity
If the jig assembly is removed prior to tightening, then the tightening step can be performed, but additional steps are required and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The jig assembly and screw cap are combined into an integrated system where the jig remains attached to the screw cap throughout the entire adjustment and tightening process. This merging eliminates the separate steps of removing and reattaching the jig, reducing procedural complexity and saving time.
Solution Approach 2:
The jig is preliminarily positioned and secured to the screw cap before the rod tightening begins. This preliminary action ensures the jig remains in place throughout the procedure, eliminating the need for subsequent removal and reattachment steps.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for treating a spinal disorder includes a sleeve having a socket end, a tool-receiving end and a wall extending between the socket end and tool-receiving end. The socket end has a socket opening for receiving a bone fixation screw cap and a pair of opposing notches for accommodating an elongated fixation member. A sleeve wall forms a bore extending axially between the tool-receiving end and the socket end of the sleeve. A method for repairing a spinal disorder includes the step of inserting a polyaxial screw into a vertebral bone, where the polyaxial screw has a screw cap. An elongated fixation member is inserted into the screw cap, followed by a fastener which is inserted into the screw cap in proximity to the fixation member. An adjustment device is connected to the screw cap to adjust the position of the polyaxial screw and vertebral bone.