Telescoping Spine Plate for Dynamic Bone Graft Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fusion techniques face challenges in effectively applying and maintaining a compressive load on bone grafts to enhance fusion speed and stability, particularly in minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
The use of telescoping stabilization plates with a limiter mechanism that allows for adjustable compressive force application, ensuring a minimum compressive force is maintained while allowing for dynamic range of motion to facilitate bone fusion in accordance with Wolfe's Law.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a compressive load is applied to bone grafts in spinal fusion, then fusion speed and stability are improved, but the complexity of the fixation device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic compression mechanism where the compression force is automatically adjusted based on the relative movement between the first and second plate portions. The resilient limiter engages with the catch to provide compression only when needed, allowing the system to adapt to healing progress without requiring complex external adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the natural relative movement between the plate portions during healing to automatically engage the limiter and apply compression. The system self-regulates by using the bone graft compression itself to trigger the limiter engagement, eliminating the need for separate complex compression application mechanisms.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a compressive load is maintained on bone grafts, then fusion stability is improved, but the risk of implant-related complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression force is dynamically adjusted as healing progresses. The limiter engages at a predetermined relative position to provide compression during the critical initial healing phase, then allows natural movement as bone fusion occurs, preventing excessive compression that could cause complications in later stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the relative movement between plate portions is detected and used to trigger limiter engagement. This feedback loop ensures compression is applied only when the bone graft requires it, automatically stopping when healing is sufficient to prevent implant-related complications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fixation device allows for dynamic range of motion, then bone fusion is facilitated, but the ability to maintain compressive force is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides dynamic range of motion through the telescoping capability of the plate portions, while the resilient limiter ensures compressive force is maintained within physiological limits. The system allows controlled movement for fusion while automatically engaging the limiter to prevent excessive motion that would compromise compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the compression parameter dynamically based on the state of bone healing. Initially, high compression is maintained to promote fusion, then the system gradually allows increased range of motion as healing progresses, with the limiter adjusting the compression force accordingly to balance fusion needs with physiological constraints.
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
The solution provides stable and adjustable compression to promote rapid bone fusion, reducing the risk of implant-related complications and enhancing the effectiveness of spinal fusion procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a limiter resiliently extending from one of the projection or the chamber
Implementation Method 2
when the first plate portion and the second plate portion are telescoped together, a compressive force is applied to the jointed bones; the compressive force is operative to promote a fusion of bones of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A bone stabilizing plate includes two plate portions, each affixable to bones of a patient, the plate portions telescoping together with mating rails and grooves. A limiter associated with one of the plate portions sliding engages one a catch associated with the other of the plate portions, when the plate portions are telescoped together, and resists stops telescoping when the plate portions are telescoped a predetermined distance apart. Once the limiter and catch are engaged, the plate portions enable imposition of a minimum compressive force between bones connected to the plates. The limiter is resiliently positioned to deflect into a relief formed in its respective plate portion. A groove positioned proximate the catch enables free telescoping motion limited by the engagement of the catch and limiter, whereby the minimum compressive force between bones is maintained, and Wolfe's Law may apply.