Spinal Interbody Tool Central Rod Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal surgery methods for interbody fusion face challenges such as complex procedures and patient trauma due to difficulties in installing spine cages, which require improved tools and systems for secure coupling, easy release, precise alignment, and material insertion during spinal fusion operations.
Innovation Solution
A novel tool and cage design featuring a centrally located rod for secure coupling, quick release, and alignment of additional hardware, with a cannulated rod for injecting therapeutic materials directly into the spinal column, enhancing the surgical procedure's efficiency and patient recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional spinal cage insertion methods are used, then the procedure can be completed, but the procedure becomes complicated and causes patient trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion tool is divided into distinct functional segments: a handle portion for operator control, a coupling portion for connecting to the cage, and a cage attachment portion with the rod for direct engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall insertion procedure while reducing the need for multiple separate instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrally located rod within the cage attachment portion serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support during insertion, enables precise alignment of the cage, facilitates coupling between the tool and cage, and allows for direct injection of therapeutic materials through its cannulated design. This multi-functionality reduces procedural complexity by eliminating the need for separate alignment tools and injection devices.
2Productivity
If traditional cage installation tools are used, then insertion can be achieved, but release and alignment require additional complex steps
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling portion and cage attachment portion are integrated into a single unified structure where the rod extends through both sections. This merging allows the alignment and coupling functions to occur simultaneously during insertion, eliminating sequential steps. The rod's central location ensures proper alignment is maintained throughout the insertion process, and the same structure enables quick release by simply disengaging the coupling mechanism without requiring separate alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrally located rod acts as an intermediary element between the insertion tool and the cage, providing a direct mechanical connection that facilitates both alignment and force transmission. This intermediary structure eliminates the need for complex alignment mechanisms by providing a simple, direct path for positioning and securing the cage in place.
3Strength
If solid insertion tools are used, then structural strength is maintained, but material injection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is designed with non-uniform properties: the outer surface maintains solid structural characteristics for strength and alignment, while the interior contains a cannulated hollow channel for material injection. This local differentiation of quality allows the same component to simultaneously provide mechanical strength and therapeutic material delivery capability, eliminating the need to choose between structural integrity and injection functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An interbody insertion tool and cage for use during an interbody spinal fusion procedure is disclosed. In one aspect, the tool comprises a rod centrally located within the tool that has the ability to remain attached to the cage to aid in: coupling the tool to the cage, release of the tool from the cage, alignment of additional hardware, and insertion of materials within the hollow of the cage.