Spinal Rod Extension Clamp for Fusion Construct Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spinal surgeons face challenges in extending a pre-existing fusion rod without disrupting the existing implant, leading to additional tissue damage, surgical time, and costs, as the location for anchoring a new implant is often occupied by the existing one.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fusion extension implant with a clamp mechanism that secures to the existing rod, featuring a deformable body with a receptacle and opposing arms that extend around the rod, allowing for attachment without removing the existing implant, and a screw for tightening to deform the clamp and secure the rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a new implant is installed that spans the length of the first implant plus the additional disk, then the adjacent disk can be bridged, but the existing implant must be disrupted causing tissue damage and extended healing time
Solution Approach 1:
The extension implant is divided into distinct functional segments: a first end for anchoring to the spine, a second end for connecting to the existing implant, and an intermediate portion that bridges the additional disk. This segmentation allows the new implant to extend the fusion construct without requiring disruption of the existing implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension implant serves as an intermediary element that connects the additional disk region to the existing implant. Rather than replacing the existing implant, the extension acts as a mediator that spans the problematic disk while attaching to the established fusion construct, thereby avoiding tissue damage associated with implant removal or disruption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the existing implant is disrupted to accommodate the new implant, then the additional disk can be bridged, but surgical time and treatment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extension implant's segmented design with dedicated anchoring, bridging, and connection portions enables a streamlined surgical procedure. Each segment performs its specific function independently, allowing the surgeon to install the extension without the complex steps required for disrupting and replacing the existing implant, thereby reducing surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension implant is designed to be pre-formed with its specific geometry and connection features, allowing it to be installed as a complete unit that automatically interfaces with the existing implant. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for intraoperative modification or disruption of the existing construct, reducing surgical time and procedural complexity.
3Length of stationary object
If a traditional implant replacement approach is used, then the fusion construct can be extended, but the existing implant location must be opened causing additional tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The extension implant is designed to nest alongside the existing implant rather than requiring its removal. The extension's connection portion interfaces with the existing rod system, allowing the two implants to coexist in close proximity. This nesting approach enables length extension while avoiding the tissue damage associated with opening and disrupting the original implant site.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension implant acts as an intermediary structure that connects to the existing implant at its terminus. Rather than requiring access to the deep implantation site of the original implant, the extension interfaces with the existing construct in a more accessible location, thereby minimizing tissue damage while achieving the desired length extension.
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
Enables the extension of a spinal fusion rod without disrupting the existing implant, reducing tissue damage, surgical time, and costs by providing a stable and secure attachment to the existing rod, allowing for efficient length extension.
Implementation Method 1
a deformable body with a receptacle and opposing arms that extend around the rod, allowing for attachment without removing the existing implant, and a screw for tightening to deform the clamp and secure the rod
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
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AI summary
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rod extension for extending a fusion construct is provided. The rod extension allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing implant that has been previously installed in the patient. The existing fusion implant typically includes at least one existing pedicle screw, at least one existing rod, and at least one existing connector interconnecting the existing pedicle screw to the existing rod. The extension implant comprises a rod, an offset beam connected to the rod, and a clamp interconnected to the offset beam, wherein the clamp can be secured to the existing rod, thereby extending the fusion construct. A method of use is also provided.