Spinal Rod Reducer With Angled Insert for Low-Twist Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rod reduction systems require significant twisting force, leading to user fatigue and limitations in hand switching during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A rod reduction system with an elongated housing and insert mechanism that allows for a rapid reduction mode with a non-perpendicular transverse channel, enabling a ratchet-type motion and a driving mode with threaded engagement, reducing the need for excessive twisting force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded zones are used to allow components to be screwed together, then the rod reduction system can be assembled and disassembled, but users must apply a large amount of twisting force leading to user fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The rod reduction system is divided into multiple components (rod, reducer, housing) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. The reducer component allows selective engagement with the rod, enabling segmented assembly operations that reduce the force required compared to a monolithic threaded design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic engagement mechanism where the reducer can be selectively engaged or disengaged from the rod. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt between different operational states (reduction mode vs. insertion mode) without requiring continuous application of high twisting force.
2Reliability
If a large amount of twisting force is required to engage components, then the threaded connection can be securely tightened, but user fatigue increases and hand switching becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The high-twisting-force threaded engagement is extracted and replaced with a lower-force engagement mechanism. The reducer component can be selectively engaged with the rod through a simplified interaction that does not require sustained high twisting force, making hand switching feasible while maintaining secure connection when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The reducer acts as an intermediary component between the rod and the housing. It provides a mediating engagement interface that translates small input forces into effective rod reduction, eliminating the need for the user to directly apply large twisting forces to the threaded connection.
3Ease of manufacture
If the transverse channel is perpendicular to the longitudinal bore, then the insert can be easily positioned, but the system cannot achieve rapid reduction mode with bypass capability
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse channel is positioned at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal bore, creating an asymmetric configuration. This asymmetric design enables the insert to engage the rod at an optimized angle that facilitates rapid reduction mode operation and bypass capability while maintaining ease of manufacture through standard machining processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a dimensional relationship between the transverse channel and longitudinal bore that goes beyond simple perpendicular alignment. The angled configuration creates a third dimension of motion that enables the bypass mechanism, allowing the rod to be reduced more rapidly by engaging the insert at an optimized angular orientation.
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
The system minimizes user fatigue by allowing for efficient rod reduction with reduced twisting force, facilitating easier hand switching and improved surgical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The insert includes a longitudinal bore therethrough, alignable with the longitudinal bore of the elongated housing, and a threaded portion... the threaded portion of the insert engages the threaded portion of the shaft of the reducer
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed rod reduction systems include an elongated housing having a longitudinal bore and a transverse channel extending through the elongated housing at a non-zero degree angle relative to the longitudinal bore. An insert is slideable within the transverse channel between an outwardly displaced position and an inwardly biased position. The insert includes a threaded portion and a longitudinal bore alignable with the longitudinal bore of the elongated housing. A reducer is slidably receivable within the longitudinal bore of the elongated housing. The reducer may have a longitudinal bore therethrough, a drive shaft positioned within the longitudinal bore of the reducer.