Translational Bone Plate Axial Compression Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed cervical plates in orthopedic surgeries resist the natural subsidence of the spinal column, leading to potential stress and discomfort, and existing adjustable plates require additional surgical procedures for adjustment, while also needing to apply constant loading to promote fusion between vertebrae.
Innovation Solution
A bone plate with movable segments and a locking mechanism that allows for axial adjustment without additional surgical procedures, using a compression instrument to move segments closer together, maintaining constant loading on the vertebrae and accommodating subsidence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If fixed cervical plates are used to provide stable fixation, then spinal stability is improved, but the plate cannot accommodate natural subsidence of the spinal column, leading to stress and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical plate incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the plate to be compressed axially after implantation. The compression device enables the plate to transition from a fixed state to a compressed state, accommodating natural subsidence of the spinal column while maintaining stable fixation. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between providing initial stability and adapting to subsequent physiological changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable cervical plates are used to accommodate subsidence, then adaptability is improved, but additional surgical procedures are required to adjust the axial dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is pre-configured within the plate structure during manufacturing, with compression surfaces and engagement features already in place. This preliminary preparation allows the plate to be adjusted immediately after implantation using a percutaneous compression device, eliminating the need for additional surgical procedures to access or modify the adjustment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
A percutaneous compression device serves as an intermediary tool that can be inserted through the skin to compress the plate axially. This intermediary mechanism allows adjustment of the plate dimensions without requiring open surgical exposure, thereby reducing surgical time and avoiding additional invasive procedures while still achieving the desired adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the plate is made compressible to accommodate subsidence, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the plate structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is divided into distinct segments with compression surfaces and engagement features that allow controlled axial compression. By segmenting the plate structure into compressible zones and stable fixation zones, the design achieves adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire plate, thereby limiting the increase in overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A bone plate that is configured to operatively attach to bone includes a first segment, a second segment, and a locking mechanism. The first segment includes a compression notch. The first and second segments are positioned along a longitudinal axis and are movable relative to one another. The locking mechanism inhibits relative axial movement of the first and second segments along the longitudinal axis away from one another. The locking mechanism includes first and second grooves disposed on the second segment. The first and second grooves and the compression slot are configured to receive an instrument to move the first segment towards the second segment along the longitudinal axis.