Surgical Connector With Translatable Locking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for treating spinal disorders, such as scoliosis and degenerative disc disease, face challenges in effectively positioning and aligning vertebrae due to limitations in existing implant systems and bone fasteners, which can lead to inadequate correction and stability.
Innovation Solution
A surgical connector system comprising a first member with a mating surface and a locking element, along with a second member that translates to engage the locking element with an implant, allowing for a robust and toggle-free interface between surgical instruments and spinal implants, including bone fasteners, to facilitate precise alignment and fixation of vertebrae.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional implant systems and bone fasteners are used for positioning vertebrae, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but the alignment precision and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional members: a first member with a mating surface for implant engagement, a locking element for securing the implant, and a second member for translation and final engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, ensuring both precise alignment and stable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary device between the surgical instrument and the implant (bone fastener). It provides a standardized interface that translates instrument movements into precise implant positioning, thereby improving alignment precision while maintaining system stability through the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If a robust connection between surgical instruments and implants is established, then the fixation stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides both the mating surface for implant engagement and the locking mechanism for securing the implant. This consolidation achieves robust fixation stability while avoiding the need for multiple separate components, thereby controlling overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to engage with the implant through the translation of the second member, creating a self-securing mechanism. Once the implant is positioned, the locking element automatically engages to maintain fixation stability without requiring additional active components or complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical connector is provided. The connector includes a first member including a mating surface engageable with an implant and a locking element and a second member translatable relative to the first member to urge the locking element into engagement with the implant. At least one of the members is connectable with a surgical instrument. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.