Transverse Connector Nested Locking Elements Spinal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization systems lack a compact transverse connector that can securely connect two rod systems on opposing sides of the spine, providing stability without interfering with adjacent screws or neurological elements, and offer ease of use during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A transverse connector with locking elements and a transverse rod, featuring a clamping mechanism and hook elements with deformable protrusions for secure engagement and audible/tactile feedback, allowing for single-step locking and angular/linear adjustment, facilitating easy access and reduced surgery time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a transverse connector is designed to connect two rod systems on opposing sides of the spine, then stability of the spinal implant construct is improved, but the profile size increases causing interference with adjacent screws or spinal cord
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse rod is nested within the locking elements, with the locking elements having a first portion that receives the transverse rod and a second portion that engages the elongated rod. This nested configuration allows the connector to achieve stable triangular configuration while maintaining a compact profile that avoids interference with adjacent structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are positioned at angular orientations relative to each other, utilizing three-dimensional spatial arrangement to create stability. The first locking element is oriented at a first angle and the second locking element at a second angle, allowing the connector to provide robust stabilization while minimizing the profile in the transverse direction.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is designed to securely engage rods, then reliability of connection is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism combines multiple functions into integrated locking elements. Each locking element simultaneously engages both the transverse rod and the elongated rod, creating a unified connection system that achieves reliable triangular configuration without requiring separate locking components for each rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be self-locking through their geometric configuration. The first portion receives the transverse rod while the second portion engages the elongated rod, creating an automatic interlocking mechanism that secures the connection without requiring additional fastening operations or complex actuation systems.
3Ease of operation
If a compact transverse connector is designed to minimize profile interference, then ease of operation during surgery is improved, but the strength of connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are pre-configured with the appropriate geometry and angular orientations to achieve secure engagement. The first locking element is oriented at a first angle and the second at a second angle, creating pre-established connection paths that ensure strong bonding while maintaining compact dimensions for ease of surgical insertion.
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 enhanced stability and flexibility to the spinal implant construct, enabling secure connection of rod systems while minimizing profile interference, offering ease of use and reduced surgery time through a poly-axial connection and top-loading design.
Implementation Method 1
the hook element having at least one deformable protrusion for retaining and capturing an elongated rod and providing audible and tactile feedback when the elongated is positioned in the hook element
Data Source
AI summary
A transverse connector system having a first and a second locking element. The present invention also provides transverse rod having opposing first and second ends, the first end being retained within a portion of the first locking element and the second end being retained within a portion of the second locking element. The first locking element is configured with a connector body for engaging and capturing an elongated rod and a transverse rod simultaneously.