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Publication Number
US-12029675-B2
Publication Date
2024-07-09
Expiration Date
Abstract
Disclosed are systems and methods of 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 allow each circumferential segment to move relative to the other segments giving the brace dynamic capability.
Core Innovation
The invention describes a system for externally applying corrective force to a vertebral column of a patient. The system includes a plurality of separate ring segments adapted to conform to a circumference of a torso, arranged in a spaced, substantially coaxial configuration about a vertical axis, with two terminal ring segments and at least one intermediate ring segment disposed between an inferior terminal ring segment and a superior terminal ring segment.
The invention provides at least one adjustable coupling mechanism on a dorsal surface of each intermediate ring segment and on a first of the two terminal ring segments. The adjustable coupling mechanisms are configured to rotate and to adjustably fixate an end of at least one elastic member so that the elastic member applies a force to a dorsal receiver on an adjacent ring segment, and the force is configured to rotate the adjacent ring segment about the vertical axis.
The system further includes at least one dorsal receiver rigidly mounted on the dorsal surface of each intermediate ring segment and on a second of the two terminal ring segments. At least one elastic member extends from each adjustable coupling mechanism to the dorsal receiver of an adjacent ring segment, providing dynamic multi-segment corrective force transfer while allowing limited relative motion between ring segments and inhibiting certain transverse-plane motion, including front-to-back or side-to-side motion.
Claims Coverage
The independent claim defines the core system architecture and force transfer mechanism using multiple spaced, substantially coaxial ring segments and dorsal adjustable coupling mechanisms. The claim set further refines receiver motion constraints, optional lateral coupling, specific mechanical structures, and specified elastic member materials.
Multiple spaced, substantially coaxial ring segments about a vertical axis with terminal and intermediate rings
A plurality of separate ring segments conforming to a torso circumference and positioned in a spaced, substantially coaxial configuration about a vertical axis, including two terminal ring segments and at least one intermediate ring segment disposed between the inferior terminal ring segment and the superior terminal ring segment.
Dorsal adjustable coupling mechanism that rotates and adjustably fixates elastic member ends
At least one adjustable coupling mechanism on a dorsal surface of each intermediate ring segment and of a first of the two terminal ring segments, wherein each adjustable coupling mechanism is configured to rotate and to adjustably fixate an end of the at least one elastic member.
Dorsal receiver on adjacent ring segments and elastic members applying force to rotate about the vertical axis
At least one dorsal receiver rigidly mounted on the dorsal surface of each intermediate ring segment and on a second of the two terminal ring segments, with at least one elastic member extending from each adjustable coupling mechanism on a ring segment to a dorsal receiver on an adjacent ring segment, wherein the force is configured to rotate the adjacent ring segment about the vertical axis.
Slot-constrained dorsal receiver motion across lateral and sagittal planes while preventing front-to-back transverse motion
A dorsal receiver having a slot that permits limited lateral and sagittal-plane motion of elastic members while preventing front-to-back motion in a transverse plane.
Receiver slot with adjustable geometry using varying slot length and width
The dorsal receiver slot configured such that the slot length and slot width can be varied.
Lateral adjustable coupling mechanism and lateral receiver in a sagittal plane
Lateral adjustable coupling mechanisms on lateral surfaces of terminal and intermediate ring segments configured to rotate and fixate ends of lateral elastic members so the lateral elastic members apply a force to a lateral receiver on an adjacent ring segment in a sagittal plane.
Axle/bearing-mount coupling mechanism with adjustable fixator
Each adjustable and lateral adjustable coupling mechanism includes an axle with bearing mounts, elastic members connected perpendicularly to the axle, and an adjustable fixator that rotates and fixes the axle to position the elastic members relative to the coupling mechanisms.
Elastic member material selection from specified materials set
Each elastic member made from one of several specified materials including semi-rigid metal and/or superelastic metal and/or shape memory alloy and/or polymer and/or graphite and/or synthetic fiber including para-aramid synthetic fiber and/or carbon fiber and/or fiberglass.
Across the independent system claim and the identified refinements, the coverage centers on ring segments arranged about a vertical axis with dorsal receivers and adjustable dorsal coupling mechanisms that rotate and fixate elastic member ends to apply corrective forces that rotate adjacent ring segments. Additional dependent features include slot-based receiver motion constraints, optional lateral coupling in a sagittal plane, structural details for coupling mechanisms, and specified material options for elastic members.
Stated Advantages
Not explicitly described in patent.
Documented Applications
Not explicitly described in patent.
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