Spinal Rod Reducing Device with Cam Jaw Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

The process of inserting and securing connecting rods into bone screws in spinal implant systems is time-consuming and burdensome, particularly when multiple adjacent vertebrae require secure connection, as it involves repeated insertion and securing processes that can apply additional torque to the bone screws and vertebrae.

Innovation Solution

A rod reducing device with an elongate member, pivotally associated jaw members, a sleeve, and an actuation lever that moves between open and closed positions to facilitate the insertion and secure engagement of the connecting rod into the bone screw head, reducing the need for additional torque and simplifying the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the connecting rod is inserted and secured into each bone screw individually through repeated processes, then the connecting rod can be securely connected to multiple vertebrae, but the process becomes time-consuming and applies additional torque to the bone screws and vertebrae

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure connection of connecting rodVSAvoidtime for insertion and securing process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple individual securing operations into a single integrated device that can secure the connecting rod to multiple bone screws simultaneously. The rod reducing device incorporates multiple securing mechanisms that engage with multiple screws in one operation, eliminating the need for repeated individual insertion and securing processes while maintaining reliable connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rod reducing device is designed as a multi-functional tool that performs both the insertion and securing of connecting rods to multiple bone screws in a single operation. The device integrates functions that were previously separate (insertion, positioning, and securing) into one universal instrument, reducing overall process time while ensuring secure connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the connecting rod is inserted and secured into each bone screw individually, then the connecting rod can be securely connected to multiple vertebrae, but the repeated process becomes burdensome and applies additional torque to the bone screws and vertebrae

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure connection of connecting rodVSAvoidadditional torque to bone screws and vertebrae

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If a rod reducing device with multiple moving parts is used to streamline the insertion process, then the time and effort required for each connection is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of insertion and securing processVSAvoidcomplexity of rod reducing device

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rod reducing device is divided into distinct functional segments or modules, each responsible for a specific aspect of the rod insertion and securing process. This segmentation allows the complex device to be managed through modular components that can independently perform their functions, making the overall complex device easier to operate and maintain while achieving high productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 device streamlines the insertion and securing of connecting rods, reducing the time and effort required for each connection while minimizing torque applied to the bone screws and vertebrae, thereby enhancing the efficiency and stability of the spinal immobilization process.

Implementation Method 1

The sleeve also includes a cam pin configured to engage inner surfaces of the pair of opposing jaw members. In particular, translation of the cam pin along the inner surfaces of the pair of opposing jaw members pivotally moves the pair of opposing jaw members between a receiving position and an engaging position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 2

an actuation lever pivotably mounted on the elongate member. The actuation lever is operatively coupled to the sleeve. In particular, the actuation lever is movable between open and closed positions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLever mechanism: Lever

Implementation Method 3

the distal end portions of the respective pair of opposing jaw members are move toward each other to engage the head of the bone screw therebetween

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical gripping: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8764756B2Single action anti-torque rod reducer

Publication Date: 2014.07.01 VB SPINE LLC

AI summary

A rod reducing device includes an elongate member, a pair of jaw members, a sleeve having a cam pin, and an actuation lever. Translation of the cam pin along the inner surfaces of the jaw members pivotally moves the jaw members between a receiving position in which distal end portions of the respective jaw members are widened and an engaging position in which the distal end portions of the respective jaw members are move toward each other to engage the head of the bone screw. The actuation lever is movable between an open in which a distal end portion of the sleeve is disposed proximal of the distal end portions of the jaw members and a closed position in which the distal end portion of the sleeve is disposed distal of the distal end portions of the jaw members for reducing the connecting rod.