Spinal Stabilization System With Interlaminar Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization systems fail to provide comprehensive stability to the spinal column, as they primarily focus on stabilizing adjacent vertebrae without addressing the instability in the remaining segments, leading to issues like 'transition syndrome' and limited adjustability or enhancement of existing spinal hardware.
Innovation Solution
A spinal stabilization system comprising interlaminar members and a support structure that extends stability to vertebrae above and below the treated segment, with adjustable cross-linking members and blocking mechanisms to prevent spinal canal narrowing and nerve compression, allowing for enhanced flexibility and stability across multiple spinal levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If interspinous or intra-laminar spacers are inserted between adjacent vertebrae to stabilize two vertebrae, then stabilization of the two adjacent vertebrae is achieved, but the remaining portions of the spinal column remain subject to unstable motion and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments including a first support member extending from the first interlaminar device, a second support member extending from the second interlaminar device, and a cross-member connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to stabilize specific portions of the spinal column while working together to provide comprehensive stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines interlaminar devices with a cross-member support structure into an integrated system. The interlaminar devices are positioned between adjacent vertebrae while the cross-member extends across multiple spinal levels, merging local stabilization with global spinal support to address both adjacent vertebrae stability and overall column stability simultaneously.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fusion techniques using bone grafts or synthetic implants are used to fuse vertebrae, then vertebral stabilization is achieved, but vertebral range of motion is significantly altered and the procedure is irreversible
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates dynamic elements that allow controlled motion. The cross-member and support members are configured to permit physiological movement while providing stabilization, enabling the system to adapt to varying spinal loads and movements rather than rigidly fixing the vertebrae in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for adjustable parameters including the positioning of interlaminar devices, the orientation of support members, and the configuration of the cross-member. These parameter changes enable customization of stabilization while preserving appropriate range of motion, offering versatility in treating different spinal conditions without irreversible fusion.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple devices configured in accordance with prior art are attached at adjacent segments, then stabilization of individual segments is achieved, but interference of bracket portions prevents easy attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-member is designed as a universal component that can connect multiple interlaminar devices at adjacent segments without interference. The structure incorporates features such as apertures and attachment mechanisms that allow multiple devices to be secured to the cross-member in a coordinated manner, eliminating the bracket interference problem of prior art systems.
4Stability of the object's composition
If prior stabilization systems are used, then local vertebrae stability is improved, but transition syndrome occurs in adjacent unfused segments due to increased forces
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure extends stabilization into the longitudinal dimension by spanning multiple spinal levels. The cross-member connects support members that extend from interlaminar devices at different vertebral levels, distributing stabilizing forces across a broader spinal region and reducing stress concentration at adjacent unfused segments, thereby preventing transition syndrome.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal stabilization system and method are provided for treating a patient's spinal column, for maintaining preselected spacing and movement between adjacent vertebrae in a spinal column, and for providing overall stability thereto. The system includes an interlaminar member positioned in the space intermediate a first vertebra and the vertebrae positioned immediately below and adjacent to the first vertebra. The interlaminar member is operatively connected to an adjustable support structure and cooperates therewith to maintain the preselected spacing between adjacent vertebrae and to provide overall stability to the spinal column.