Spinal Prosthesis Positioning Device with Adjustable Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting disc prostheses in spinal surgery are challenging due to difficulties in accurately positioning the prosthesis between vertebrae, leading to risks of incorrect placement, damage to vertebrae, and increased strain on adjacent segments, especially in patients with osteoporosis.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with adjustable and lockable fixing elements and a universal joint allows for precise placement of the prosthesis by spanning apart the vertebrae, enabling verification with imaging techniques and allowing for repositioning if necessary, while minimizing the number of operation points and reducing the risk of injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the prosthesis is positioned by hammering between the vertebrae, then the prosthesis can be implanted, but the vertebrae are drawn against each other making implantation difficult and risky
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device is assembled with the prosthesis before insertion, and the vertebrae are spanned apart in advance to create sufficient space. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for forceful hammering during implantation, allowing smooth placement without drawing the vertebrae against each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device acts as an intermediary tool between the surgeon and the prosthesis. It includes engagement means that connect to the vertebrae and holding means that secure the prosthesis, mediating the implantation process to achieve precise positioning without direct forceful impact on the vertebrae.
2Measurement precision
If the vertebrae are spanned apart to position the prosthesis, then the prosthesis can be placed correctly, but the process is troublesome and sometimes laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device merges multiple functions into a single integrated tool: the distance means for spanning vertebrae, the holding means for securing the prosthesis, and the positioning means for ensuring correct alignment. This combination simplifies the surgical procedure by eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments and steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed as a universal tool that can be used for both spanning the vertebrae apart and holding the prosthesis in position. The distance means can be adjusted to accommodate different vertebral spacings, and the holding means can secure prostheses of different sizes, making the device versatile for various implantation scenarios.
3Reliability
If the prosthesis is made thicker to include the joint detail, then the joint is complete, but the prosthesis is more troublesome to position between the vertebrae
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device is segmented into adjustable components: the distance means can be adjusted to match the thickness of the complete prosthesis including the joint detail. This segmentation allows the positioning device to accommodate the full-thickness prosthesis without compromising positioning ease, as the distance means can be configured to provide the exact spacing needed.
4Measurement precision
If the prosthesis is positioned exactly on the middle line, then the positioning is correct, but the possibilities of adjusting the position are almost none after implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device incorporates dynamic, adjustable elements: the distance means can be adjusted during the positioning process to fine-tune the prosthesis position. The holding means can be released and repositioned if needed, allowing the surgeon to achieve precise midline positioning while retaining the ability to adjust before final securing.
5Strength
If the prosthesis has maximal size to support on the peripheral rim, then the support is strong, but the positioning requires great skill and experience to avoid damage
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device serves as an intermediary that takes over the complex positioning task from the surgeon. The engagement means automatically align with the vertebrae, and the holding means securely hold the maximal-size prosthesis in the correct position, reducing the skill requirement for avoiding vertebral damage during implantation.
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning device for placing a prosthesis device in a spinal column of a living mammal, the device including at least one holding means for cooperation with the prosthesis device and for guiding thereof during positioning. The positioning device may also include fixing means for fixation with respect to at least one vertebra, where the fixing means includes locking means, which in a first, free state, allows adjustable movement of the holding device and thereby of the prosthesis device, and in a second, locked state, fixes the holding means and thereby the prosthesis device in a selected position. Embodiments of the disclosure also include Embodiments of the invention also include a system.