Vertebral Body Stapling Tether Tensioning for Scoliosis Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for idiopathic scoliosis, such as bracing and spinal fusion, are ineffective in halting curve progression and can limit spinal growth and mobility, necessitating a more effective surgical approach.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the implantation of anchor devices with channels onto vertebral bodies, where a tether is secured and tensioned to translate and position vertebral bodies correctly, allowing for growth while halting curve progression, using techniques like thoracoscopic portal access and vertebral body screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If spinal fusion is performed to correct spinal deformity, then spinal alignment is improved, but spinal growth and mobility are inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The VBS system employs dynamic staples that allow controlled motion and growth rather than rigid fixation. The staples can be adjusted post-operatively to accommodate spinal growth while maintaining corrective alignment, transforming the static fusion construct into a dynamic system that adapts to physiological changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The spinal correction is achieved through segmental stapling at multiple vertebral levels rather than a single fusion construct. This segmentation allows different regions of the spine to maintain independent growth potential while collectively achieving the desired alignment correction through distributed anchoring points.
2Reliability
If bracing is used to treat idiopathic scoliosis, then curve progression may be halted, but treatment effectiveness is limited and psychosocial issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the external mechanical bracing system with an internal vertebral body stapling system. This substitution eliminates the need for patient compliance with external brace wear while providing more reliable and direct mechanical control over curve progression through anchored staples within the vertebral bodies.
3Adaptability or versatility
If growing rods or VEPTR are used for fusionless treatment, then spinal growth is permitted, but surgical complexity and device invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The VBS system uses thin, flexible staples that can be inserted through small incisions and anchored within vertebral bodies. These minimalistic implants provide the necessary structural support for growth accommodation without the complexity of large rod-and-screw constructs, enabling a simpler surgical approach with reduced tissue disruption.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for performing spinal correction surgery. The method includes creating at least one access opening in a patient, and implanting a plurality of anchor devices through the at least one access opening onto a plurality of corresponding vertebral bodies. Each anchor device has a channel defined therein. The method further includes disposing a tether into the channel of each of the plurality of anchor devices. A first end portion of the tether is secured to a first of the plurality of anchor devices. Additionally, the method includes translating the vertebral body corresponding to the selected anchor device using a pusher tool. Furthermore, the method includes applying a tension to the tether using a tensioner.