Spinal Prosthesis Insertion Device Rotational Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical tools for implanting artificial spinal discs are complex, costly, and prone to mechanical failure due to reliance on spring force for retaining the disc, increasing the risk and duration of the procedure.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an insertion assembly with a gripper and coupler member that securely positions and implants a spinal prosthesis as a unit, using a rotational mechanism to apply axial force and ensure precise placement without relying on spring force, allowing for efficient and reliable implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring force is used to retain the disc in the implantation instrument, then the disc can be held in place during insertion, but the instrument becomes more complex and prone to mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring force retention mechanism from the implantation instrument, extracting the problematic element that caused complexity and mechanical failure. The instrument is redesigned to retain the disc prosthesis through friction and geometric constraints alone, eliminating the need for springs while maintaining retention reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The disc prosthesis itself provides the retention function through its design features, specifically the annular flange that engages with the implantation instrument's retention surface. The disc's own structural elements serve the retention function without requiring separate active retention components like springs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are implanted sequentially, then the implantation is more flexible, but the procedure duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the disc prosthesis and endplates into a single integrated implant unit that is inserted as one component. This merging of previously separate components (disc and endplates) into a unified structure reduces the number of implantation steps and decreases procedure duration while maintaining the flexibility to address various spinal conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are implanted sequentially, then the implantation is more flexible, but the risk of procedure failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the disc prosthesis and endplates into a single unit, the patent reduces the number of steps and potential failure points in the implantation procedure. The unified structure ensures proper alignment and positioning in one insertion action, reducing the risk of procedural failure compared to sequential implantation of separate components.
4Productivity
If a distraction instrument with integrated installation capabilities is used, then the implantation process is more efficient, but the instrument becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The implantation instrument is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a distraction instrument and an installation instrument. The unified tool performs multiple functions (vertebral distraction and disc prosthesis insertion) within a single device, improving productivity while avoiding the complexity of having separate specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the spring force retention mechanism from the instrument, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the ability to securely hold the disc prosthesis during insertion through alternative friction-based and geometric retention methods.
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
This solution reduces procedural time and risk by providing a secure, reliable method for implanting spinal prostheses, enhancing the efficiency and safety of the surgical process while minimizing mechanical failures and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a coupler member having a gripper coupling portion rotatably positioned within the channel and configured to couple with the end portion of the gripper
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for insertion of an implant is disclosed. One embodiment of a system for use in implanting a spinal prosthesis incorporating principles of the invention includes an insertion assembly housing with a channel extending from a distal end portion to a proximal end portion, a gripper having a prosthesis coupling portion for coupling with a spinal prosthesis and an end portion, and a coupler member having a gripper coupling portion rotatably positioned within the channel and configured to couple with the end portion of the gripper within the channel.