Spinal Stabilization with Flexible Connecting Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for stabilizing bone structures, particularly in vertebral stabilization, often require invasive surgical techniques that involve cutting and repositioning skin and tissue, lacking minimally invasive options for vertebral reduction and motion preservation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing anchor extensions and a connecting element that can be inserted minimally invasively to stabilize spinal motion segments by aligning and securing vertebrae, allowing for vertebral reduction and stabilization without extensive tissue exposure, using a combination of anchor extensions and a connecting element that can be percutaneously inserted and secured to anchors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional open surgical techniques are used for vertebral stabilization, then reliable access to the surgical site and stable fixation can be achieved, but extensive tissue trauma and large incisions are caused
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization system is divided into separate components: anchors inserted into vertebrae, connecting elements joining the anchors, and extension members providing additional reach. This segmentation allows minimally invasive insertion of individual components while achieving stable fixation through their combined action
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is inserted through the anchor extensions using a nested configuration where the connecting element passes through the extension members. The anchor extensions serve as guides and protectors during insertion, then are removed, leaving the connecting element securely positioned between anchors
2Object-affected harmful factors
If minimally invasive techniques are used for vertebral stabilization, then tissue trauma is reduced, but access to the surgical site and instrument placement become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Anchor extensions serve as intermediary devices that facilitate the insertion of connecting elements through a minimally invasive path. The extensions are temporarily positioned to create a pathway, guide the connecting element into place, and then are removed, leaving the final stabilization structure in position
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows insertion approaches from multiple directions and angles. Anchors can be inserted into vertebrae from various access points, and connecting elements can be routed between anchors using three-dimensional space, providing surgical flexibility without requiring large incisions
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid stabilization is achieved through traditional rod and screw constructs, then vertebral alignment is secured, but spinal motion is completely restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element can be configured with flexible or semi-rigid properties, allowing controlled motion between vertebrae while maintaining stability. The system transitions from completely rigid fixation to a dynamic construct that permits physiological movement, adapting to the mechanical needs of the spinal segment
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffness and mechanical properties of the stabilization construct can be adjusted by selecting different connecting element materials, cross-sectional geometries, and configurations. This allows optimization of the balance between stability and motion preservation based on the specific clinical indication and vertebral level
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for spinal stabilization with flexible elements and other elements engaged to the vertebrae. Also provided are instruments and methods for insertion of the flexible stabilization elements and other elements and for reduction of displacement between adjacent vertebrae in a minimally invasive surgical approach.