Spinal Rod Connector With Offset Receptacles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spinal rod systems face challenges in optimal placement and sizing due to geometric and dimensional constraints, making it difficult for surgeons to maneuver and accommodate anatomical changes post-surgery, limiting the effectiveness of spinal stabilization and fixation.

Innovation Solution

A spinal rod system with a connector design featuring laterally offset receptacles and clamping arms that allow for adjustable positioning and attachment of rods along the spinal column, minimizing intrusiveness and enabling optimal fit and adjustment during and after surgery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If elongated one-piece rods are used for spinal stabilization, then structural strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in maneuvering into position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidease of maneuvering

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rod system is divided into multiple segments: separate rod portions that can be inserted independently through the connector, allowing each segment to be maneuvered separately into position while maintaining overall structural integrity when assembled

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If elongated one-piece rods are used, then structural integrity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to limited sizing and selection options

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidadaptability to anatomical changes

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rod is segmented into multiple replaceable portions that can be selected in different sizes and configurations to match patient-specific anatomical requirements, while the connector provides a universal interface for assembly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from fixed one-piece rods to a dynamic assembly where rod portions can be selected, inserted, and adjusted based on intraoperative anatomical conditions and post-operative changes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If traditional rod systems are used, then stabilization is achieved, but device footprint increases causing greater intrusiveness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestabilization effectivenessVSAvoiddevice footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The rod portions are received within receptacles of the connector body, with clamping arms that fold over or nest around the rods to secure them, minimizing the overall footprint while maintaining secure stabilization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS7699874B2Low profile spinal rod connector system

Publication Date: 2010.04.20 WARSAW ORTHOPEDIC INC

AI summary

A spinal rod system includes a first rod and a second rod engaged to a connector with the first and second rods extending axially therefrom in opposite direction and in laterally offset relation. The connector includes first and second side-by-side receptacles for receiving respective ones of the rods. The connector includes a clamping arrangement to releasably secure the rods in the respective receptacles. The receptacles allow the relative axial position between the rods to be adjusted to accommodate anatomical conditions.