Spinal Rod Extension Connector for Minimally Invasive Revision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal treatments, such as surgical interventions using vertebral rods, often require invasive procedures that disrupt existing constructs and prolong healing, while non-surgical methods fail to alleviate symptoms of spinal disorders like scoliosis and degenerative disc disease.
Innovation Solution
A spinal construct system comprising a connector with a double-threaded setscrew and nut that attaches to existing pedicle screws, allowing a secondary rod to be extended without removing the primary rod, facilitating minimally invasive revision surgeries to correct spinal disorders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surgical treatment uses traditional spinal constructs with vertebral rods and fasteners, then spinal stability is provided, but invasive procedures disrupt existing constructs and prolong healing
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to be nested within the existing spinal construct, with its first mating surface engaging the existing fastener implant and its second mating surface engaging the new fastener implant. This nesting approach allows the connector to integrate seamlessly into the existing construct without requiring removal or disruption of original components, thereby maintaining spinal stability while minimizing surgical intervention and reducing healing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The spinal construct is segmented into modular components including the existing fastener implant, the connector with mating surfaces, and the new fastener implant. This segmentation allows for targeted revision surgery where only the specific problematic segment is addressed while preserving the rest of the construct, reducing overall surgical trauma and accelerating the healing process.
2Reliability
If surgical treatment removes and replaces existing spinal constructs, then structural support is restored, but tissue damage increases and healing time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-designed with mating surfaces that directly engage with standard fastener implants, eliminating the need to remove existing constructs. The preliminary design of the connector allows it to be installed in a minimally invasive manner, preserving surrounding tissue and reducing surgical trauma while restoring structural support through the new fastener-connector-fastener assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If revision surgery extends existing spinal constructs, then spinal correction is achieved, but surgical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a universal component that can engage with existing fastener implants through its first mating surface and provide attachment for new fastener implants through its second mating surface. This multi-functionality allows the same connector design to be used across different revision scenarios and spinal levels, simplifying the surgical procedure by providing a standardized extension mechanism rather than requiring custom complex assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal construct includes a coupling member including a first mating surface engageable with an existing fastener implant. The existing fastener implant being connected with an existing spinal rod implant. A connector is engageable with the existing fastener implant and has a rod extending therefrom. A locking member is engageable with a second mating surface of the coupling member. Systems, surgical instruments, implants and methods are disclosed.