Vertebral Fixation System with Flexible Elongated Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vertebral fixing systems for correcting spinal curvature lack effective and versatile designs for securely stabilizing vertebrae, particularly in achieving and maintaining desired spinal alignment.
Innovation Solution
A vertebral fixing system comprising a flexible elongated member, a connecting part, and an anchor, where the anchor engages a bone structure through an opening in the connecting part, and the elongated member is mechanically fixed or connected to the connecting part using various methods such as gluing, clamping, or riveting, with a tightening part to secure the elongated member and apply tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional screws and hooks are used to stabilize vertebrae, then spinal alignment can be achieved, but the device lacks flexibility and adjustability for precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic components including a flexible elongated member that can be tensioned and adjusted, connecting parts that allow movement and positioning, and a tightening part that enables progressive securing. This dynamic system provides both flexibility for precise alignment and reliability for secure stabilization, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid connecting structures are used, then stable fixation is achieved, but the system cannot accommodate variations in spinal anatomy and curvature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes through the flexible elongated member that can be tensioned to different degrees, connecting parts that can be positioned at varying locations and orientations, and a tightening part that allows progressive adjustment. These parameter adjustments enable accommodation of spinal variations while maintaining fixation stability, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and stability.
3Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used for securing the elongated member, then adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components: the connecting part serves as both an attachment point for the anchor and a connection point for the elongated member, while the tightening part integrates both securing and tensioning functions. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining adjustability, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertebral fixing system having a flexible elongated member, a connecting part, and an anchor, where the anchor may engage a bone structure (e.g., a vertebra) through an opening of the connecting part and the flexible elongated member may connect to the connecting part. In some cases, the vertebral fixing system may include a tightening part configured to apply a tension to the elongated member and/or secure the elongated member with respect to the connecting part. The vertebral fixing system may be configured to receive a rod and may be capable of connecting thereto. The connecting part may have a plurality of connecting members, where at least one of the connecting members includes an opening for receiving the anchor and at least one of the connecting members connects to the elongated member.