Stackable Vertebral Body Replacement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal implant technologies face challenges in providing a versatile, biocompatible, and easily insertable vertebral body replacement that can accommodate varying spinal curvatures and heights, while also minimizing surgical access and recovery time.
Innovation Solution
A stackable vertebral body replacement system comprising variable size upper and lower endcaps and a center core, all made from biocompatible materials like PEEK, allowing for adjustable height and curvature reconstruction. The system includes radiolucent materials for tumor patients and uses inserter assemblies for precise placement through smaller access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a vertebral body replacement system uses variable size endcaps and center core components made from biocompatible materials, then adaptability and biocompatibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vertebral body replacement system is divided into multiple separable components including upper endcaps, lower endcaps, and a center core. Each component can be independently selected and assembled to match specific patient anatomical requirements, enabling adaptability without requiring a completely custom implant for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The endcaps and center core components are designed with universal mating interfaces that allow different sized components to be assembled together in various configurations. This multi-functional design enables the same basic component types to serve multiple vertebral levels and curvature requirements through different combinations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vertebral body replacement system uses stackable components with mating sections, then adaptability for different heights and curvatures is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The implant system is segmented into standardized components with consistent mating interface geometries. This segmentation allows each component type to be manufactured using standardized processes, and the interfaces are designed to be self-aligning, reducing assembly complexity despite the variety of component sizes available.
3Measurement precision
If radiolucent materials are used for tumor patients, then measurement precision for monitoring is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system offers radiolucent material options that allow X-ray and other imaging modalities to pass through the implant material itself, enabling direct visualization of the treatment site and surrounding anatomy. This material property choice trades some structural considerations for improved imaging capability, allowing physicians to monitor tumor response and implant positioning with high precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertebral body replacement device, dimensioned for implantation between a first and second vertebral bone is described. The vertebral body replacement device includes a superior endcap, an inferior endcap and a central core between the superior and inferior endcaps. The vertebral body replacement device further includes a fusion aperture extending through the superior and inferior endcaps and central core. The vertebral body replacement device is made of radiolucent material and can be implanted from a lateral or anterior approach to the spine.