Spinal Implant Insertion Tool with Controlled Distraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inserting spinal implants into intervertebral spaces during orthopedic spine surgery often disrupt the natural biomechanics of the spine, leading to unpredictable outcomes due to the formation of scar tissue and subsequent weakening of the annulus fibrosus, which can cause further damage to the nucleus pulposus and reduce the disc's cushioning ability.
Innovation Solution
An insertion tool with a handle assembly, jaw assembly, and holding member that allows for precise placement of a spinal implant into an intervertebral space, featuring a pivot mechanism and mechanical stops to securely hold and release the implant, facilitating controlled distraction and stabilization of adjacent vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current methods for inserting spinal implants are used, then the implant can be placed into the intervertebral space, but the natural biomechanics of the spine are disrupted and scar tissue forms causing unpredictable outcomes
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool is designed to perform preliminary actions of controlled distraction and precise positioning before final implant placement. The mechanical distraction mechanism pre-positions the vertebrae in the correct alignment, and the implant is held in a predetermined orientation by the jaw assembly, ensuring optimal placement that preserves spinal biomechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tool acts as an intermediary device between the surgeon and the implant. It provides controlled distraction forces and precise positioning mechanisms that mediate the interaction, allowing for predictable implant placement while minimizing direct disruption to the spinal structures. The tool's mechanical stops and pivot mechanisms serve as intermediaries to control the insertion process.
2Ease of operation
If the annulus fibrosus is injured during surgery, then the implant can be accessed and placed, but scar tissue forms weakening the annulus and causing further damage
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool replaces direct manual manipulation with a controlled mechanical system. The jaw assembly and holding member provide mechanical control over the implant placement process, reducing the need for excessive force or direct trauma to the annulus fibrosus. The mechanical distraction mechanism allows access to the implant site through controlled, gradual separation rather than forceful disruption.
3Manufacturing precision
If a holding member is added to securely hold the implant, then precise placement is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is merged with the jaw assembly into a single integrated unit. The holding member is positioned within the jaw assembly and moves with it, combining the functions of implant holding and positioning control. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining precise placement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaw assembly serves multiple functions: it holds the implant via the holding member, provides mechanical distraction forces, controls implant positioning, and guides insertion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving precise implant placement.
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion tool for placing a spinal implant in an intervertebral space includes a handle assembly, a jaw assembly having first and second jaw members movable with respect to each other, and a holding member adapted to hold and release an implant in response to a manipulation of the handle assembly. The holding member is configured to move longitudinally with respect to the jaw assembly upon manipulation of the handle assembly.