Spinal Rod Coupling Mechanism for End-to-End Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation systems face challenges in optimal placement and attachment along the spinal column due to geometric and dimensional constraints, limiting the surgeon's options in sizing and selection, especially with elongated rods that are difficult to maneuver and provide limited sizing options.
Innovation Solution
A spinal construct system featuring a coupling mechanism that axially and torsionally constrains two spinal fixation elements in end-to-end fashion, allowing for rods of differing characteristics to be secured together, minimizing the footprint of the coupling mechanism and maximizing rod length for positioning and attachment, with options for alignment along a common axis or offset axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If elongated one-piece rods are used for spinal fixation, then the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity are improved, but the ease of maneuvering and placement during surgery deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rod system is divided into multiple rod segments that can be separately inserted and then coupled together using coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows each segment to be maneuvered independently during surgery, improving ease of placement while maintaining structural integrity through the coupling connections between segments.
2Strength
If elongated one-piece rods are used for spinal fixation, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the surgeon's options in sizing and selection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rod system is divided into multiple rod segments that can be separately inserted and then coupled together using coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows each segment to be maneuvered independently during surgery, improving ease of placement while maintaining structural integrity through the coupling connections between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod system allows for variation in segment lengths, diameters, and cortical engagement features across different segments. This enables customization of the overall rod construct to match specific patient anatomy and surgical requirements, providing multiple sizing and configuration options while maintaining load-bearing capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rod segments are coupled together, then the adaptability and sizing options are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism integrates multiple functions into a single component or assembly, including axial connection, torsional constraint, and potentially locking features. This merging reduces the overall number of separate components needed compared to alternative designs that might use separate connectors, locks, and alignment features.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: connecting rod segments axially, constraining torsional movement, and potentially providing adjustment or locking capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each function.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments for a spinal construct system including a spinal fixation plate attachable to fixture element in end-to-end fashion with a coupling mechanism that axially and torsionally constrains the first and second rods to one another. In one form, the end to end attachment arrangement is aligned along a common axis of the rods. In another form, the axes of the rods are offset laterally relative to one another.