Spinal Rod Interface Device for Minimally Invasive Revision Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional revision spine surgeries require large incisions to replace existing spinal rods, which is invasive and inefficient, as they cannot be performed minimally invasively like initial spinal fusion surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rod interface device and screw interface device that allows for the integration of additional rods to existing spinal support structures through small incisions, using a frame with gripping jaws and screw mount elements to secure new rods to existing pedicle screws and rods without removing the existing support structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional revision spine surgery is performed with large incisions to replace existing spinal rods, then the existing support structure can be accessed and replaced, but the procedure becomes invasive with increased tissue trauma and longer recovery time
Solution Approach 1:
The rod interface device is divided into separate functional components: a clamping mechanism for gripping the existing rod, a frame structure for positioning, and a mechanism for securing the new rod. This segmentation allows the device to be inserted through a small incision while still providing full functionality for rod replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod interface device acts as an intermediary tool that bridges the gap between the small incision and the existing spinal rod. It provides a mechanical interface that allows surgeons to manipulate and replace rods through minimal access, eliminating the need for large incisions.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If minimally invasive techniques are used with small incisions for initial spinal fusion surgeries, then tissue trauma is reduced, but revision surgeries cannot be performed minimally invasively to replace existing rods
Solution Approach 1:
The rod interface device is designed with universal applicability to work with existing spinal rods of various types and sizes. The clamping mechanism can accommodate different rod diameters, and the device can be used for both initial rod installation and revision surgery, making it a versatile tool for minimally invasive spinal procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod interface device incorporates dynamic elements including movable clamping jaws that can open and close to grip the existing rod, and adjustable components that allow the device to adapt to different surgical scenarios. This dynamic design enables the same device to be used for both initial and revision surgeries through small incisions.
3Strength
If the rod interface device uses a clamping mechanism to grip the existing rod, then secure attachment is achieved, but the device complexity increases with movable gripping jaws
Solution Approach 1:
The complex movable jaw mechanism is contained entirely within the rod interface device itself, which is inserted through the small incision. The simple fixed frame structure remains outside the patient's body, with only the necessary clamping components inside. This extraction of complexity to the disposable or removable interface device simplifies the overall system while maintaining strong gripping capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses an implantable device for spinal treatment or stabilization. The device includes a spinal rod support and gripping jaws. The gripping jaws operate between an opened position and a closed position to grip and release a first spinal rod implanted into a patient. The spinal rod support includes a perimeter structure having an interior cavity and passage to connect a second spinal rod to the device to operably connect the first and second spinal rods through the implantable device to form a spinal stabilization structure.