Direct Vertebral Rotation Tool for Spinal Deformity Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current tools for correcting rotational components of spinal deformities in spinal surgery are technique-dependent and time-consuming, lacking a simple and effective solution for managing sagittal or coronal curvatures combined with rotational deformities.

Innovation Solution

A tool set comprising a head holder with a tubular handle, inner and outer sheaths, a ratcheting connector with adjustable circular sleeves, and a flex arm connector with nesting cups, allowing for secure attachment to pedicle screws and adjustable configurations to facilitate rotational corrections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current DVR tools and methods are used, then rotational correction can be achieved, but the procedure becomes technique-dependent and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational correction effectivenessVSAvoidprocedural time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is divided into distinct functional segments: a head holder component for securing the pedicle screw, a rod receiving portion for the spinal rod, and a rotation handle for applying corrective torque. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling quick assembly and disassembly during the surgical procedure, reducing overall procedural time while maintaining correction effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tool allows preliminary positioning and securing of the pedicle screw head within the head holder before final rod insertion and rotation. The rod receiving portion can be pre-configured with the appropriate rod, and the rotation handle can be pre-attached, allowing the surgeon to perform corrections more efficiently without repeated adjustments during the procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If current DVR tools and methods are used, then rotational correction can be achieved, but the system becomes complex and technique-dependent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational correction effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated tool: the head holder secures the pedicle screw head, the rod receiving portion holds the spinal rod, and the rotation handle applies corrective torque. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate instruments and reduces technique-dependency by providing all necessary functions in one straightforward device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool is designed with universal applicability for Direct Vertebral Rotation procedures. The head holder can accommodate standard pedicle screw heads, the rod receiving portion can accept various rod diameters, and the rotation handle provides consistent torque application. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized tools and simplifies the overall system while maintaining correction effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8936605B2Direct vertebral rotation tool and method of using same
Publication Date: 2015.01.20 ORTHOFIX US LLC
  • US8936605B2 patent drawing
  • US8936605B2 patent drawing
  • US8936605B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A head holder for holding and tensioning the head of a bone screw, particularly a pedicle screw, is provided. Also provided is a ratcheting connector for connecting to the head holders while permitting rotational movement of the head holder when engaged with the ratcheting connector. Also provided is a flex arm connector for connecting multiple ratcheting connectors across multiple vertebral bodies. A tool set for managing and/or correcting spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, including at least one or more head holders and one or more ratcheting connectors is provided.