Spinal Stabilization Device with Elastomeric Arms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for restoring function to facet joints in the spine, such as capping and arch replacement, are limited in addressing pain and maintaining natural joint function, often requiring resection of facet joints and facing challenges in alignment and durability.
Innovation Solution
A spinal stabilization device with a central spacer and pliable arms made from elastomeric materials with varying durometers, designed to couple to adjacent vertebrae, providing resistance to movement and mimicking the natural function of facet joints while allowing for flexibility and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional fusion surgery is performed to relieve pain from damaged facet joints, then pain relief is achieved, but motion between vertebrae is prevented and additional stress is applied to adjoining levels
Solution Approach 1:
The device changes the mechanical parameters of the spinal stabilization system by using pliable arms with varying durometers that allow controlled motion while providing stabilization. The elastomeric material properties enable the device to provide pain relief through stabilization while preserving physiological motion, unlike rigid fusion constructs.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes composite elastomeric materials with multiple durometers to create a structure that combines flexibility and rigidity in different regions. The central spacer and arms are formed from elastomeric material with varying hardness levels, allowing the device to simultaneously provide stable support and controlled flexibility to maintain natural spinal function.
2Stability of the object's composition
If capping techniques are used to preserve facet joint structure, then bony and articular structure is preserved, but the pain source in osteoarthritic joints is not removed and caps loosen over time
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs flexible pliable arms made from elastomeric material that can adapt to the facet joint anatomy and provide stable support without rigid constraints. The flexible nature of the arms allows them to conform to the joint structure while maintaining durability and preventing loosening over time.
3Ease of operation
If arch replacement is performed to restore facet joint function, then articulating function is replaced, but facet joints must be resected and alignment is challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a central spacer and multiple arms that can be independently positioned and attached to adjacent vertebrae. This segmentation simplifies the implantation process and alignment requirements compared to monolithic arch replacement devices, as each component can be adjusted separately to achieve proper positioning.
4Strength
If rigid stabilization devices are used to control vertebral movement, then stability is improved, but natural spinal motion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from static rigid stabilization to dynamic stabilization by using pliable arms that can adapt their stiffness based on physiological loading conditions. The elastomeric material allows the device to maintain stability while accommodating natural spinal motion through its inherent elasticity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes material parameter changes through elastomeric materials with varying durometers to achieve optimal balance between stabilization strength and motion preservation. The central spacer and arms are formed from elastomeric material with varying hardness levels, allowing the device to simultaneously provide stable support and controlled flexibility.
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 effectively stabilizes the spine, controlling movement and distributing stress, thereby reducing further damage and pain, while maintaining natural spinal motion and alignment without the need for facet joint resection.
Implementation Method 1
The central spacer and the arms can have a unitary configuration and can be formed from an elastomeric material with multiple durometers. For example, a first portion of each arm adjacent to the central spacer can have a durometer that is less than a durometer of the central spacer, and a terminal portion of each arm can have a durometer that is greater than a durometer of the central spacer.
Data Source
AI summary
Various methods and devices are provided for stabilizing the posterior elements of the spine, and more preferably methods and devices are provided for sharing the load with the intervertebral disc, the facet joints, the ligaments, and the muscles of the spinal column. In certain exemplary embodiments, methods and devices are provided for substantially controlling or providing resistance to movement, e.g., flexion, extension, lateral bending, and/or axial rotation, of the adjacent vertebrae.