Spinal Implant Load Feedback for Precise Fusion Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal fusion procedures face challenges in accurately assessing the load applied on implants and body parts during procedures like ALIF or LLIF, which can lead to complications such as fracture, misplacement, nerve injury, and implant expulsion.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a load indicator system integrated with transport devices and actuators provides real-time feedback on the load applied to spinal implants and body parts, using components like load cells, torque cells, and optical markers to enhance procedural accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional spinal fusion procedures are performed without load monitoring, then the procedure is simpler and faster, but the risk of complications such as fracture, misplacement, nerve injury, and implant expulsion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where load indicators (strain gauges, load cells) provide real-time load information during implant placement. This feedback loop allows surgeons to monitor and adjust applied loads to remain within safe thresholds, preventing complications while maintaining procedural control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical estimation of load with electronic sensing systems. Strain gauges and load cells convert mechanical load into electrical signals that can be displayed and monitored, substituting intuitive mechanical sense with precise electronic measurement.
2Measurement precision
If load indicators are integrated with transport devices and actuators, then real-time load feedback is provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the load indicator system with the existing transport device and actuator components. The strain gauges are integrated into the distractor and transport device structure, combining measurement functionality with delivery functionality in a unified system rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport device serves multiple functions: it transports the implant to the target site, positions the implant, applies controlled load during placement, and simultaneously monitors the load through integrated sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated measurement equipment.
3Manufacturing precision
If real-time load monitoring is implemented, then procedural accuracy is enhanced, but the time required for the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load monitoring system provides self-service by automatically measuring and displaying load information without requiring additional manual measurement steps. The integrated sensors continuously monitor load as the procedure progresses, eliminating the need for separate measurement interventions that would consume time.
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
Enhances the precision of implant placement and reduces the risk of complications by allowing surgeons to monitor and adjust the load applied during spinal fusion procedures, improving procedural outcomes and patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
a load indicator coupled with at least one of the actuator or the transport device, the load indicator providing feedback indicative of a load on at least one of the implant or a body part of the patient
Implementation Method 2
an optical feedback system for detecting indicators of a load on the implant and/or the body part of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include apparatuses for providing feedback on an implant. In a particular implementation, an apparatus includes: a transport device for loading the implant in a patient; an actuator coupled with the transport device for actuating movement of the implant in the patient; and a load indicator coupled with at least one of the actuator or the transport device, the load indicator providing feedback indicative of a load on at least one of the implant or a body part of the patient.