Spinal Implant System Restoring Alignment and Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fusion methods 'freeze' degenerated spinal joints, failing to restore mobility or alignment, while spinal disc and facet joint replacement devices often result in abnormal kinematics and hypermobility, leading to patient discomfort and accelerated degeneration of adjacent spinal levels.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for restoring spinal alignment and mobility through preoperative and intraoperative protocols that include anatomical data collection, imaging, and surgical instrumentation, allowing for the selection and implantation of spinal implants that stabilize and restore normal kinematic movement, balancing and realigning the spine to reduce stress on implant components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If spinal fusion methods are used to stabilize the spine, then spinal stability is improved, but spinal mobility and alignment are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal column is divided into individual vertebral segments that can be independently treated and stabilized, allowing mobility in untreated segments while providing stability to affected areas through targeted intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic stabilization systems that allow controlled movement within a stable range, rather than complete immobilization. The instrumentation enables the spine to maintain physiological motion while preventing pathological instability
2Ease of operation
If spinal disc and facet joint replacement devices are used to restore mobility, then spinal range of motion is improved, but abnormal kinematics and hypermobility occur leading to accelerated degeneration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes adjustable instrumentation that allows precise control of spinal parameters including alignment angles, segmental positioning, and stabilization forces. This enables optimization of kinematic parameters to achieve normal movement patterns while preventing hypermobility
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates imaging and measurement techniques that provide feedback on spinal alignment and positioning during surgery, allowing real-time adjustment to achieve optimal kinematic restoration and prevent abnormal movement patterns
3Shape
If surgical instrumentation is used to restore spinal alignment, then spinal alignment and mobility are improved, but implant wear and migration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pre-bent rods and pre-positioned instrumentation that are configured before surgery to match the patient's specific anatomy and desired alignment. This preliminary preparation reduces intraoperative manipulation and minimizes stress on implant components during placement
Solution Approach 2:
The instrumentation is designed with varying properties at different locations - such as different rod flexibilities, connection point characteristics, and fixation methods - to optimize both alignment restoration and implant stability in specific anatomical regions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for restoring spinal alignment and/or maximizing range of motion for patients who suffer from spinal degenerative disorders.