Spinal Fusion Interbody Spacer With Blocking-Member Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interbody spacers for spinal fusion lack effective mechanisms to securely anchor and stabilize the implant within the interbody space, leading to potential dislodgment and hindered bone fusion.
Innovation Solution
The interbody spacer features fastener-receiving openings with locking mechanisms, such as locking tabs or blocking members, and fasteners with unique designs to prevent withdrawal, combined with 3D-printed structures to enhance structural integrity and bone integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional interbody spacers are used without locking mechanisms, then the device structure remains simple, but the spacer can be dislodged and stability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into distinct functional segments: a shaft for insertion, a base with receptacle for tool engagement, and a blocking member that separates from the shaft to create a locked position. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member is pre-positioned within the fastener-receiving opening of the interbody spacer before fastener insertion. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the fastener is inserted, the blocking member is already in place to prevent withdrawal, establishing stability before the fastening action is complete.
2Reliability
If fasteners can be easily inserted and removed, then the device is easier to operate, but the spacer lacks secure anchoring
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is positioned in advance to counteract any potential withdrawal force on the fastener. By pre-establishing this mechanical barrier within the fastener-receiving opening, the design prevents fastener dislodgment before such action can occur, ensuring secure anchoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member acts as an intermediary element between the fastener and the interbody spacer. It mediates the connection by physically blocking the fastener's withdrawal path while allowing insertion, thus securing the anchoring without complicating the overall operation.
3Reliability
If the fastener-receiving opening is open-ended, then the fastener can be easily inserted, but the fastener can also be withdrawn
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener-receiving opening structure is segmented into the opening itself and the blocking member that moves within it. This segmentation allows the opening to remain accessible for insertion while the blocking member provides the retention function, resolving the contradiction between ease of insertion and fastener retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member is designed to move dynamically within the fastener-receiving opening - it can be displaced to allow fastener insertion, then returns to or maintains a position that blocks withdrawal. This dynamic behavior enables both easy insertion and secure retention without requiring a complex fixed structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An interbody spacer for spinal fusion surgery includes a body configured for insertion within an interbody space between two adjacent vertebrae. The body defines at least one fastener-receiving opening for receiving a fastener for securing the body within the interbody space. A blocking member is disposable in the fastener-receiving opening for preventing the fastener from being withdrawn from the fastener-receiving opening once the fastener has been fully inserted into the fastener-receiving opening.