Spinous Process Clamp for Spinal Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pedicle screw systems face challenges in accessing vertebrae, particularly near spinal nerves, and pose risks of injury due to their invasive nature and difficulty in securement.
Innovation Solution
The development of a system comprising clamps with gripping members and coupling members that can be securely affixed to spinous processes, allowing for segmental fixation and distraction or compression of vertebrae without the need for invasive procedures, using a clamp system that can exert compressive force and be configured for various bone structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If pedicle screws are used to attach components to vertebrae, then stable fixation is achieved, but the risk of nerve injury increases and surgical access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the fixation system into separate components: clamps that attach to the spinous process and coupling members that connect adjacent clamps. This segmentation eliminates the need for invasive pedicle screw insertion while achieving stable fixation through distributed attachment points on the spinous process surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary device between the external fixation components and the spinous process. Instead of directly inserting screws into the vertebra near nerves, the clamp provides a secure attachment interface on the spinous process surface, mediating the connection without requiring deep penetration into vulnerable areas.
2Reliability
If pedicle screws are inserted into vertebrae, then secure attachment is achieved, but surgical access and insertion difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of inserting fixation devices into the vertebra from the lateral or anterior approach (as with pedicle screws), the invention inverts the approach by attaching clamps to the spinous process from the posterior midline. This reverses the direction of application and utilizes the more accessible spinous process surface for secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design incorporates pre-formed gripping surfaces and attachment mechanisms that are prepared in advance for direct placement on the spinous process. This preliminary preparation of the attachment interface simplifies the surgical procedure compared to the complex insertion steps required for pedicle screws.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If clamps with gripping members are used to attach to spinous processes, then less invasive procedures are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp design integrates multiple functions into a single device: attachment to the spinous process via gripping members, provision of an interface for coupling members, and potential for adjustment or removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate components while achieving the less invasive goal.
4Stability of the object's composition
If coupling members are used to connect clamps for segmental fixation, then vertebral stabilization is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member design merges the connection functions for adjacent clamps into a single component that can simultaneously engage multiple clamps. This combining of connection functions reduces the total number of separate fastening components needed while achieving stable segmental fixation of the vertebrae.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and kits incorporating a clamp for securing to bone tissue. The clamp includes gripping members to secure the clamp to the bone tissue without the use of screws. The clamp may be used to treat spinal conditions, and may be secured to the spinous process of vertebrae. Systems, methods and kits can incorporate a fusion member configured to fuse between adjacent spinous processes.