Orthosis for deformity correction

Inventors

Thompson, Matthew • Thompson, Paul M.

Assignees

Green Sun Holdings LLC • Green Sun Medical LLC

Abstract

Disclosed are systems and methods correction of spinal deformity that overcome current limitations by utilizing a dynamic, multi-segment torso orthosis that allows motion during wear. The disclosed embodiments utilize a series of elastically coupled segments that conform to the circumference of the torso of a patient. Adjustable elastic coupling mechanisms are utilized to create and alter forces and moments that are applied to the torso through the segments. These elastic coupling mechanisms also allows each circumferential segment to move relative to the other segments giving the brace dynamic capability.

Core Innovation

The invention relates to a system for externally applying corrective force to a vertebral column of a patient using a plurality of separate ring segments. The ring segments are adapted to conform to the circumference of the torso and are positioned in a spaced, substantially coaxial configuration about a vertical axis, including an inferior terminal ring segment, a superior terminal ring segment, and at least one intermediate ring segment.

For each intermediate ring segment and for terminal ring segments, at least one dorsal drive unit is provided on a dorsal surface and at least one dorsal receiver is rigidly mounted on a dorsal surface. At least one elastic member extends from each dorsal drive unit on a ring segment to the dorsal receiver on an immediately adjacent ring segment, and the dorsal receiver is configured as a slot to receive the elastic member.

The dorsal drive unit is configured to apply a rotational force to an end of the elastic member to deflect an axis of the elastic member. By deflecting the axis of the elastic member, the system applies a force in a direction perpendicular to a lateral plane on the dorsal receiver of an adjacent ring segment, with the placement and adjustment of terminal and intermediate dorsal drive units enabling externally applying corrective force across multiple ring segments.

Claims Coverage

The document provides two independent claims, a system claim and a method claim, centered on externally applying corrective force to a vertebral column using spaced, substantially coaxial ring segments and elastic members deflected by rotational drive units to apply forces through dorsal receivers configured as slots. The main inventive features across the independent claims include the ring-segment arrangement, the dorsal drive and dorsal receiver coupling, and the rotational deflection of an elastic-member axis to generate force directions perpendicular to a lateral plane.

Across the independent claims, the core coverage is the external corrective-force system and method built from multiple spaced, substantially coaxial ring segments about a vertical axis, with adjacent rings coupled by elastic members. Dorsal drive units apply rotational force to deflect an elastic-member axis, and the deflection produces force directions perpendicular to a lateral plane at rigidly mounted dorsal receivers configured as slots.

Stated Advantages

Documented Applications