Telescoping Vertebral Stabilization Device for Spinal Decompression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis, such as laminectomies and spinal fusions, are invasive and costly, and there is a need for devices and methods that can effectively distract and stabilize spinous processes or laminae to alleviate compression and pain without the risks associated with major surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A vertebral stabilization device featuring a telescoping design with arcuate connector members and a securement mechanism, allowing for adjustable distraction and stabilization of spinous processes or laminae, which can be secured to the spine using bone screws and a locking mechanism, enabling both static and dynamic stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional spinal fusion procedures are performed, then spinal stability is improved, but surgical invasiveness and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vertebral stabilization device employs nested frame members where an inner frame member is positioned within an outer frame member, allowing the device to be compact for implantation while providing sufficient structural support for spinal stabilization, thereby reducing surgical invasiveness while maintaining stability
Solution Approach 2:
The device divides the stabilization function into separate components including connector members for attaching to spinous processes, frame members for structural support, and securement mechanisms for locking, allowing each component to be optimized independently and simplifying the overall surgical procedure
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional spinal fusion procedures are performed, then spinal stability is improved, but surgical cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vertebral stabilization device is designed to perform multiple functions including distraction, stabilization, and decompression of the spine through a single implantable structure, eliminating the need for separate procedures or devices and thereby reducing overall surgical cost
Solution Approach 2:
The nested frame member configuration allows for efficient use of materials and compact packaging, reducing manufacturing complexity and surgical implantation time, which contributes to cost reduction while maintaining spinal stability
3Object-affected harmful factors
If spinous processes are distracted to alleviate compression, then spinal decompression is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The securement mechanism allows the frame members to be adjusted between locked and unlocked states, enabling dynamic control of the distraction force on spinous processes, allowing decompression when needed while maintaining stability when locked
Solution Approach 2:
The nested frame members provide structural support while allowing controlled movement between the inner and outer frames, enabling decompression of spinous processes while the outer frame maintains overall structural stability of the device
Data Source
AI summary
A vertebral stabilization device operable for stabilizing and/or decompressing a portion of the spine, including: a first frame member; a second frame member; a first connector member engaged to the first frame member for securing the first frame member to a first structure of the spine; and a second connector member engaged to the second frame member for securing the second frame member to a second structure of the spine; wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are in a telescoping relationship with each other. The first and second structures of the spine may include spinous processes, laminae, sacral structures, or any other suitable structures. Preferably, the first connector member and the second connector member are substantially arcuate in shape, and may face towards each other, away from each other, or in the same direction.