Modular Spinal Construct Extension for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A modular spinal construct extension system adaptable to high-security, disaster relief, extreme weather, remote, or high-altitude environments, ensuring reliable fixation and fusion in unique operational settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original modular apparatus for extending an existing spinal construct, as described in the original patent, is limited in its applicability to various specialized environments. This new inventive concept addresses the need for adaptable spinal fixation solutions that cater to specific operational requirements, such as enhanced security, rapid deployment, or extreme weather resistance.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a modular apparatus with specialized features tailored to specific environments. For high-security environments, the apparatus incorporates enhanced tamper-evident features and a locking element with a unique identifier for tracking and verification purposes. In disaster relief scenarios, the apparatus is designed with a simplified attachment mechanism and a reduced number of components to facilitate rapid assembly and implantation. For extreme weather conditions, the apparatus is constructed from corrosion-resistant materials and features a self-lubricating mechanism to minimize friction and wear. In remote or austere environments, the apparatus is designed to be compact and lightweight, with a minimal number of tools required for assembly and implantation. In high-altitude environments, the apparatus features a pressure-resistant design and a specialized locking element to maintain stability and fixation.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel adaptations of the original modular apparatus to address specific operational environments, providing a non-obvious and innovative solution to the limitations of the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include additional specialized features, such as radiation-resistant materials for use in nuclear or radiological environments, or advanced sensors for real-time monitoring of the spinal construct in extreme conditions. Variations of the apparatus may also be designed for use in specific medical procedures, such as minimally invasive surgeries or robotic-assisted operations.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of spinal fixation and fusion. Target markets may include hospitals, medical research institutions, and specialized healthcare providers operating in high-security, disaster relief, or extreme weather environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/7052 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical devices, specifically spinal construct modification and extension technologies, requiring advanced mechanical engineering, biomaterials knowledge, and surgical intervention design skills
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with expertise in mechanical design, materials science, and understanding of surgical procedural constraints, typically holding an advanced degree with 5-10 years of specialized medical device development experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's modular spinal construct extension provides a fundamental framework that can be readily adapted to specialized environmental conditions using standard engineering design principles. The PTD's variations represent predictable modifications that address known operational challenges in medical device deployment across different contexts. These adaptations would be considered routine problem-solving within the technical domain of surgical device engineering.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,223 |
|---|---|
| Title | Modular apparatus for extending an existing spinal construct |
| Assignee(s) | SPINE WAVE, INC. |