Spinal Reduction Instrument with Translating Nut Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal surgery techniques face challenges in achieving precise correction and alignment of the spine due to the complexity of spinal anatomy and the need for precise placement and handling of correction devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of a novel spinal reduction device and method that includes a base with a vertical post and a translating nut, along with guides that allow for precise alignment and correction of spinal segments by using reduction taps and bone screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spinal correction devices are used, then spinal fusion procedures can be performed, but precise alignment and correction of spinal segments is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The reduction device is divided into separate functional components: a base plate for attachment to the spinal bone plate, vertical posts for alignment, translating nuts for adjustment, and guides with teeth for securing reduction taps. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function precisely while simplifying the overall system compared to monolithic correction devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The guides with teeth act as intermediaries between the reduction taps and the bone plate. The teeth on the guides engage with the reduction taps to prevent over-rotation and control the depth of insertion, enabling precise alignment without requiring complex feedback mechanisms or sophisticated control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If correction devices are designed for versatility, then they can address different spinal deformities, but they become more difficult to position and handle with precision
Solution Approach 1:
The translating nuts on the vertical posts provide dynamic adjustability, allowing the surgeon to modify the position of the reduction taps relative to the bone plate during the procedure. This dynamic capability enables the same device to accommodate different spinal deformities and patient anatomies while maintaining ease of positioning through simple rotational adjustments rather than complex reconfiguration.
3Manufacturing precision
If reduction taps are inserted manually, then flexibility in placement is maintained, but precision and consistency of insertion depth is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The guides with teeth provide self-limiting insertion through mechanical engagement. When the reduction tap reaches the correct depth, the teeth on the guide engage with the tap to prevent further insertion, automatically ensuring consistent and precise insertion depth without requiring external measurement tools or complex control mechanisms.
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 enables precise mechanical correction of spinal alignment, facilitating more accurate and effective spinal fusion procedures by allowing for incremental adjustments and stable attachment to bone plates.
Implementation Method 1
a translating nut adapted to translate along a longitudinal axis of the vertical post
Implementation Method 2
a proximal end that has teeth which are adapted to engage with a head of a tap and prevent it from further rotation when the tap shaft is inserted a certain distance into an interior of the guide
Data Source
AI summary
The present subject disclosure provides a novel design for devices and methods for straightening a curved spine by using a reduction tool to move the spine with respect to an attached bone plate.