Transverse Connector Ball Joints Spinal Rod Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transverse connectors in spinal surgery lack the necessary multidirectional articulation and space accommodation for anatomical variations, limiting their adaptability and potential impact on surrounding soft tissues.
Innovation Solution
A transverse connector system with a cross member and spinal rod connecting members featuring multiple ball joints and adjustable compression slots, allowing for independent multidirectional articulation and secure locking of spinal rods, while providing sufficient space for anatomical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid transverse connector design is used to securely fixate spinal rods, then fixation strength is improved, but adaptability to anatomical variations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse connector incorporates ball joints at its ends that enable multidirectional articulation, allowing the connector to dynamically adapt to varying anatomical configurations while maintaining secure rod fixation. The ball joints provide rotational freedom in multiple directions, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows changes in orientation and position parameters through the ball joint articulation mechanism. This enables the same connector structure to accommodate different anatomical variations by adjusting its angular parameters rather than requiring multiple fixed-design connectors.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid transverse connector is used to maintain structural stability, then stability is improved, but impact on surrounding soft tissues worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The ball joint mechanism allows the connector to dynamically conform to the surrounding anatomy, reducing static pressure points and potential harm to soft tissues while maintaining the structural stability needed for spinal rod fixation through its articulating capability.
3Device complexity
If a transverse connector with limited articulation is used to simplify the device design, then device complexity is reduced, but multidirectional alignment capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ball joint provides multidirectional articulation capability with a relatively simple spherical geometry and socket design, achieving complex alignment adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity. The inherent rotational freedom of the ball joint mechanism delivers versatile alignment capability through an elegantly simple structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a transverse connector having first and second spinal rod connecting members disposed on opposing ends of a cross member. Each spinal rod connecting member is configured to connect to a spinal rod. The first and second spinal rod connecting members are configured for multidirectional articulation relative to the cross member.