Spinal Spacer With Integrated Screw Holes And Anchor Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intervertebral fixation systems for spinal fusion surgeries often limit surgeons to a single method of securing spacers, lacking flexibility in choosing between screw and anchor fixation based on patient anatomy and surgical preference.
Innovation Solution
A kit for intervertebral disc repair that includes a spacer with multiple holes for screw reception and channels for anchor reception, along with interchangeable plates and a securing plate to prevent screw and anchor backout, allowing surgeons to choose the fixation method during surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a spacer is designed with dedicated screw holes only, then screw fixation is achieved, but the surgeon cannot use anchor fixation and vice versa
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is designed with both screw holes and anchor channels integrated into a single device, allowing it to perform multiple fixation functions. The spacer can accommodate either screw fixation, anchor fixation, or both simultaneously, providing universal compatibility with different fixation methods without requiring separate dedicated devices for each method.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer is segmented into distinct functional zones: screw holes are positioned at specific locations for screw fixation, while anchor channels are positioned at other locations for anchor fixation. This segmentation allows each fixation method to have its own dedicated receptacle while maintaining overall device integration and versatility.
2Ease of operation
If a spacer allows both screw and anchor fixation, then surgical autonomy is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer provides universal fixation capability by integrating both screw holes and anchor channels, enabling the surgeon to choose the most appropriate fixation method based on patient anatomy and surgical preference. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified spacer design that accommodates both fixation types without requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the spacer have specialized qualities: screw holes are positioned and sized for optimal screw engagement, while anchor channels are positioned and sized for optimal anchor engagement. Each local region is optimized for its specific fixation method while contributing to the overall versatility of the device.
3Reliability
If screw backout prevention mechanisms are added, then spacer stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing plate is designed with features that preemptively prevent screw backout before it can occur. The plate includes openings positioned to receive screw heads and structural features that mechanically block the screws from backing out, thereby preventing fixation failure before it happens rather than reacting to it after the fact.
Data Source
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AI summary
A prosthesis for spinal surgery includes a spacer (12, 612, 712) adapted to be secured into the bone and attached to one of a plurality of configuration plates (40, 140, 240, 640, 640', 740, 740'). The configuration plates (40, 140, 240, 640, 640', 740, 740') are interchangeable and each one is configured to utilize a different combination of bone screws, anchors (80), or both. The prosthesis may further include a retaining mechanism (60) to prevent bone screws and/or anchors (80) from backing out.