Telescoping Spinal Rod Extension via Magnetic Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation systems face challenges in inserting longer rods minimally invasively due to limited space, leading to errors and restricted rod lengths, which can result in inadequate stabilization and increased tissue trauma.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping spinal rod system with a guide tower assembly that allows the rod to be extended after insertion below the fascia, enabling longer rod lengths to be achieved without increasing incision size, using a mechanism that can be lengthened post-insertion with a remote signal, such as a rotating magnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a longer rod is used to connect desired vertebrae, then spinal stabilization is improved, but the difficulty of minimally invasive insertion increases due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is divided into multiple telescoping segments that can be inserted separately through the guide tower and then extended to the required length. This allows the rod to be inserted in a compact form and then expanded to achieve the necessary length for spinal stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping rod segments are nested within each other during insertion, with each segment containing the next segment. This nested configuration allows the entire rod structure to be inserted through a small incision in a compressed state, then extended to full length after positioning.
2Length of moving object
If a longer rod is inserted minimally invasively, then spinal fixation is improved, but the risk of insertion errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rod segments are pre-assembled in a nested configuration within the guide tower before insertion. This preliminary preparation ensures proper alignment and positioning of all segments, eliminating the need for complex maneuvering of a long rod through tight spaces and reducing the risk of insertion errors.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the incision size is kept small for minimally invasive surgery, then tissue trauma is reduced, but the ability to insert longer rods is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rod insertion problem is solved by transitioning from a single-dimensional insertion approach to a multi-dimensional telescoping mechanism. The rod can be inserted in a compressed state through a small incision, then extended along its longitudinal axis to achieve the required length, effectively adding the dimension of variable length to the insertion process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the minimally invasive insertion and extension of longer spinal rods, improving stabilization and reducing tissue trauma by allowing for longer rod lengths without the need for larger incisions, thus enhancing spinal fixation efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The rod is then extended once it is positioned in the rod housing. In some embodiments, the rod may be configured to extend or contract in response to a remote signal, such as an electromagnetic signal. One embodiment employs a rotating magnetic field.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a spinal fixation system comprising a telescoping spinal rod, as well as methods of its use and a guide tower for use therewith. The telescoping rod can be extended after it has been inserted into the patient below the fascia, which permits it to be extended in the sub-fascial space.