Dynamic Spinal Implant Distraction for Motion-Preserving Decompression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fusion procedures often result in limited motion, high complication rates, and irreversible fusion, failing to adequately treat conditions like DDD, spinal stenosis, and spinal curvature disorders, while anterior approaches pose significant surgical risks.
Innovation Solution
Implantable spinal systems configured for anterior or posterior insertion, capable of preserving motion and decompressing nerve roots without discectomy or fusion, using dynamic force elements like springs or elastic rods to restore disc height and correct spinal deformities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spinal fusion procedures are performed to treat DDD, spinal stenosis, and spinal curvature disorders, then symptom relief is achieved, but motion is limited and adjacent segment disease develops
Solution Approach 1:
The invention treats only the specific affected spinal segment(s) rather than fusing multiple vertebrae together. The implant device is configured to stabilize individual motion segments (e.g., one or two vertebrae) while leaving adjacent segments mobile, thereby providing symptom relief at the treatment site without limiting motion in untreated areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant provides localized stabilization and support precisely where needed (at the affected disc level) rather than creating a broad fusion. The device structure includes elements that engage specific vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs to provide targeted support while preserving motion in adjacent spinal segments.
2Reliability
If spinal fusion is performed to provide permanent symptom relief, then the procedure is irreversible, but the failure rate is high and revision options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The implant device is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow for adjustment and potential revision. The system includes movable components and connection elements that can be modified post-implantation, enabling surgeons to adjust the degree of stabilization or convert to fusion if needed, unlike traditional rigid fusion constructs.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant allows for parameter adjustments such as changing the distraction force applied to the intervertebral disc, modifying the engagement depth with vertebral bodies, or adjusting the flexibility of the connecting elements. These adjustable parameters provide versatility for revision and optimization of treatment outcomes.
3Ease of operation
If anterior approach is used to insert the spinal system, then direct access to the spine is achieved, but significant surgical risks are posed
Solution Approach 1:
The implant device includes intermediary components such as connectors and linking elements that bridge the gap between vertebral bodies without requiring direct exposure of the spinal canal or nerve roots. This allows anterior insertion while maintaining a safe distance from critical neurovascular structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes a three-dimensional configuration with elements extending in multiple directions (anterior-posterior, superior-inferior, and lateral dimensions) to achieve stable fixation while accessing the spine through the anterior approach. This multi-dimensional design allows the implant to engage vertebral bodies from the front without compromising posterior structures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If conventional fusion procedures are performed, then adjacent vertebrae are welded together, but additional stress and strain are placed on vertebrae above and below the fused portion
Solution Approach 1:
The implant isolates the mechanical stress to only the treated segment by providing stabilization locally at the affected disc level. The device structure includes elements that engage specific vertebral bodies and distribute loads within the treated segment, preventing stress transmission to adjacent unfused vertebrae.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides localized support and load distribution precisely at the affected spinal segment, with the implant geometry and engagement points designed to contain mechanical stresses within the treated area rather than propagating them to adjacent vertebrae.
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
These systems effectively decompress nerve roots, restore spinal alignment, and correct deformities while allowing motion, reducing pain and potentially regenerating discs, with adjustable distraction forces and customizable treatment options for multiple or single spinal levels.
Implementation Method 1
a dynamic force element extendible between the first and second bone anchors and configured to lengthen over time
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for treating and/or correcting spinal diseases, disorders, conditions, and deformities. A method for decompressing a spine of a patient comprises advancing first and second bone anchors through an opening in the patient to a target portion of a vertebral column and securing the first and second bone anchors to first and second bones within the vertebral column. A connector element is positioned between the first and second bone anchors and a force is applied to the connector element to distract the vertebral column and at least partially decompress the target portion of the vertebral column. The force applied by the connector element may be sufficient to increase the distance between two adjacent vertebral bodies to restore disc height or it may be sufficient to increase the space within the neural foramina in the patient to open the neural foramina and decompress one or more nerve roots therein.