Low Profile Transverse Connector with Multidirectional Articulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transverse connectors in spinal surgery lack the ability to adapt to the natural anatomical variances of the spinal column, particularly in multiple planes, and fail to provide a low profile and smooth surface, which can negatively impact surrounding soft tissue.
Innovation Solution
A novel transverse connector system with multidirectional articulation joints and a selectively lockable cross connecting assembly, allowing independent adjustment of spinal rod connection members in multiple dimensions and accommodating varying spinal rod lengths, while maintaining a low profile and reducing tissue trauma.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid transverse connector design is used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to anatomical variances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse connector incorporates articulation joints at each end that enable dynamic adjustment in multiple planes (sagittal, coronal, and transverse). These joints allow the connector to adapt its configuration to match the natural anatomical variances of the spinal column while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement rather than rigid fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: articulation joints at each end for multidirectional adjustment, a central body for structural stability, and connection interfaces for spinal rods. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the joints provide adaptability while the central body maintains structural strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex multidirectional articulation system is added, then adaptability to anatomical variances is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple articulation functions (rotation in sagittal plane, tilting in coronal plane, and adjustment in transverse plane) are merged into single integrated articulation joints at each end of the connector. This consolidation achieves multidirectional adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the joints are designed as unified structures rather than separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation joints are designed as universal joints capable of movement in multiple planes simultaneously, allowing a single component to perform multiple adjustment functions. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts needed compared to having separate adjustment mechanisms for each plane of motion.
3Strength
If a larger profile connector is used, then structural strength is improved, but soft tissue trauma increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a low-profile design with smooth contoured surfaces that minimize the distance between the implant and overlying soft tissue. The articulation joints are positioned to reduce the overall profile height, and the surfaces are contoured to eliminate sharp edges or protrusions that could cause soft tissue irritation or trauma.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation capability is achieved through rotational and tilting movements in multiple planes rather than through increases in connector size or profile height. This allows the connector to maintain a low profile while still providing the necessary adaptability to anatomical variances.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a novel low profile transverse connector system having a first and second spinal rod connection member disposed at opposing ends of an elongated cross connection device, each connection member having a distal end configured to be capable of connecting to a spinal rod and a proximal end having a multidirectional articulation joint at which a centrally disposed cross connecting assembly is provided to attach the first and second connection members to each other, the first and second spinal rod connection members each defining two opposing compression slots that serve to facilitate a secure connection to spinal rods and to the cross connecting assembly by the tightening of only one locking screw. Also provided is a method of stabilizing vertebrae using the disclosed system.