Expandable Spinal Implant Linkage for Adjustable Vertebral Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical treatments for spinal disorders, such as degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis, often fail to provide adequate stability and immobilization, leading to persistent pain and mobility issues.
Innovation Solution
A spinal implant system featuring an interbody implant with a linkage expansion mechanism, actuated by a screw, allowing for unilateral expansion and contraction to provide adjustable support and stabilization of vertebrae, utilizing materials like titanium alloys and PEEK for biocompatibility and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spinal implants are used for fixation, then spinal stability is provided, but adequate immobilization and stress distribution are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal implant incorporates a dynamic linkage mechanism with movable connections between the first and second members, allowing the implant to adjust its configuration in response to applied loads. The actuator enables controlled translation along the longitudinal axis, transforming the implant from a static to a dynamic structure that can adapt to varying spinal conditions and provide optimized stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant is divided into distinct functional segments: a first member, a second member, and a linkage mechanism with actuators. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's function while enabling coordinated action to achieve both stability and adjustability, resolving the contradiction between fixed reliability and operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If rigid spinal constructs are used, then immobilization is provided, but stress on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic linkage mechanism allows the implant to flex and adapt under load, distributing stresses across multiple moving joints and the actuator system rather than concentrating them in rigid connections. This dynamic response reduces peak stresses while maintaining immobilization effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant can change its structural parameters (configuration, spacing, orientation) through actuator-driven translation, allowing it to optimize its mechanical properties under different loading conditions. This parameter adaptability reduces stress concentration by adjusting the load path and distribution pattern.
3Adaptability or versatility
If expandable linkage mechanism is added, then adjustable support is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is positioned within the cavity of the first member, with the pivot axis and linkage components nested within the implant structure. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple functional elements into a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining expandability and adjustability features.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves multiple functions: it translates along the longitudinal axis to expand/contract the implant, provides structural support as part of the linkage mechanism, and enables positional adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances spinal stability, reduces stress on components, and facilitates bone integration through adjustable expansion, providing effective immobilization and promoting bone growth, thus alleviating pain and improving mobility.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is rotatable for translating the pivot axis such that the second link is movable within the cavity to move the members between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal implant comprises a first member, a second member and an actuator defining a transverse pivot axis. A first link is connected to the first member and the actuator adjacent the pivot axis. The first link includes an inner surface defining a cavity. A second link is connected to the second member and the actuator adjacent the pivot axis. The actuator is rotatable for translating the pivot axis such that the second link is movable within the cavity to move the members between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.