Spinal Rod Connector With Adjustable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Securing spinal rods to vertebrae that are too small, fragile, or damaged poses challenges, and existing methods require substantial time and hardware during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A spinal rod connector system comprising adjustable arm assemblies with hooks and engagement housings, allowing for poly-axial rotation and secure fixation of spinal rods using a fastener system, which includes a ball and set screw mechanism for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bone screws are used to secure spinal rods to vertebrae, then the spinal rods can be firmly fixed, but the surgical procedure requires substantial time and hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple independent components: a body portion with a slot for the spinal rod, an elongate member with a hook for vertebral engagement, and a fastener system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates quicker assembly during surgery compared to traditional bone screw systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate member with the hook is pre-formed and integrated into the connector body, allowing the hook to be directly engaged with the vertebra without requiring separate drilling or insertion steps. The slot is pre-configured to receive the spinal rod, enabling rapid assembly.
2Reliability
If bone screws are used to secure spinal rods to vertebrae, then the spinal rods can be firmly fixed, but substantial hardware is required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the body portion houses the slot for the spinal rod, the elongate member provides the hook for vertebral engagement, and the fastener secures the assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate bone screws, washers, and other hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves multiple functions: it anchors to the vertebra via the hook, secures the spinal rod through the slot, and provides adjustable fixation through the fastener system. This multi-functionality replaces what traditionally required multiple separate hardware pieces.
3Reliability
If traditional methods are used to secure spinal rods to small or fragile vertebrae, then fixation may be achieved, but the procedure becomes problematic and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The hook at the end of the elongate member is specifically designed with local geometric features that concentrate force on a small area of the vertebra, maximizing anchorage strength in fragile bone. The slot in the body portion is configured to distribute loads evenly across the spinal rod, providing stable fixation without requiring extensive bone purchase.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a first arm assembly with a first base portion having a fixation channel. The assembly also includes a second arm assembly selectively adjustable with respect to the first arm assembly, and the second arm assembly has a second base portion. The assembly also includes a bone anchor and a band extending in the fixation channel.