Spinal Growth Modulation via Asymmetric Vertebral Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate in effectively correcting spinal deformities such as scoliosis and kyphosis by failing to provide controlled modulation of vertebral growth to restore normal spinal alignment and curvature.
Innovation Solution
The use of an elongated member attached to vertebral members with fasteners that allow relative motion while applying corrective forces to limit growth on the convex side of the spine, redirecting growth potential to reduce or eliminate spinal deformities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If an elongated member is attached to vertebral members with fasteners to apply corrective forces, then spinal deformity correction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple independent fasteners (e.g., first fastener, second fastener) attached to different vertebral members, allowing individual adjustment and control of corrective forces at each level of the spine. This segmentation enables precise control over the modulation of vertebral growth while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The fasteners are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as attachment mechanisms for the elongated member and as active components that apply corrective forces to limit vertebral growth. Each fastener integrates multiple functions (attachment, force application, growth modulation) into a single component, reducing the need for separate devices.
2Measurement precision
If fasteners are designed to limit growth direction on one side of vertebral members, then corrective force precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each fastener is designed with asymmetric geometry to provide different mechanical properties in different directions. The fastener structure includes features such as asymmetric arm configurations that allow free motion in one direction while restricting motion in the opposite direction, enabling precise control over the direction of corrective forces applied to each vertebral member.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fasteners allow relative motion between adjacent vertebral members, then spinal flexibility is improved, but attachment reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener design incorporates dynamic characteristics by allowing controlled relative motion between adjacent vertebral members through asymmetric mechanical constraints. The fastener acts as a dynamic constraint that permits motion in physiologically appropriate directions while preventing motion in directions that would compromise attachment integrity or worsen the deformity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses methods for treating a spinal deformity. In one embodiment, an elongated member is attached to vertebral members with fasteners. A separate fastener may attach the elongated member to each of the vertebral members. The elongated member may apply a force to limit growth on one side of the vertebral members, such as a convex side of a scoliotic spine. Each fastener may be constructed to limit a direction of growth of the vertebral member thereby applying a specific, corrective force to the vertebral member. The fasteners may allow relative motion between adjacent vertebral members without losing the attachment between the vertebral members and the fasteners. The net result may be controlled modulation of growth to reduce and/or eliminate the spinal deformity through redirection of growth potential.