Vertebral Assist Device Dynamic Alignment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spinal corrective procedures often result in recurrence rates of complications, limited range of motion, and instability due to fixation or fusion, and do not adequately address the specific spinal issues of all patients, particularly those with scoliosis or vertebral injuries, leading to long-term damage and decreased quality of life.
Innovation Solution
A medical vertebral assisting device comprising a plurality of vertebral support sections connected by an actuating system, dynamically controlled by a control system to achieve and maintain optimal alignment, utilizing AI and sensor systems for real-time stabilization and support, allowing for self-adjustments and reduced stress on the spinal interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional spinal corrective procedures (spinal fusion, pedicle screw systems) are used to stabilize vertebrae, then vertebral stability is improved, but range of motion is limited and recurrence rates remain high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic stabilization components including polyaxial pedicle screws with adjustable angle caps, rod systems with variable curvature, and intervertebral spacers that allow controlled motion. These dynamic elements provide spinal stabilization while preserving physiological range of motion, directly resolving the contradiction between stability and mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes adjustable parameters such as screw angle, rod curvature, and spacer height that can be customized during surgery to match patient-specific anatomy and injury patterns. This parameter customization allows optimization of both stability and range of motion for each individual case.
2Shape
If repeated surgical interventions are performed to address recurrence, then spinal alignment may be improved, but scar tissue build-up and instability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pre-contoured rods and pre-measured spacers that are customized before surgery based on patient imaging data. This preliminary preparation allows for precise alignment correction in a single surgical procedure, minimizing the need for repeat interventions and reducing scar tissue formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional rigid mechanical fixation with a more flexible approach using shape memory alloy components and programmable actuators that can adapt to spinal movements, reducing mechanical stress and the need for repeated surgical adjustments.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid fixation systems are used to stabilize the spine, then immediate stability is achieved, but long-term adaptability and healing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable angle pedicle screws, variable curvature rods, and intervertebral spacers with controlled compliance. These components provide immediate postoperative stability while allowing gradual adaptation and motion as the spine heals, enabling long-term biological integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes self-adjusting components that automatically adapt to spinal movements and loading patterns without requiring external intervention. The programmable actuators and shape memory materials enable the implant to self-regulate its mechanical properties based on real-time spinal conditions, promoting natural healing processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertebral assist device for monitoring, supporting, stabilizing, and adjusting vertebrae. An embodiment of the vertebral assist device includes: a plurality of vertebral support sections, each of the plurality of vertebral support sections configured to support a respective vertebra of a patient; an actuating system for interconnecting each adjacent pair of the plurality of vertebral support sections, the actuating system dynamically controlling an alignment of the plurality of vertebral support sections; and a control system for actively monitoring the alignment of the plurality of vertebral support sections and for directing the actuating system to dynamically adjust the alignment of the plurality of vertebral support sections until an alignment goal is achieved.