Enhanced Systems and Methods for Ultrasonic Detection of Device Distraction with Adjustable Features

Publication ID: 24-11857226_0006_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Direct Improvements & Enhancements

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Enhanced Systems and Methods for Ultrasonic Detection of Device Distraction with Adjustable Features,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857226_0006_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857226_0006_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,226.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

The present invention relates to improved systems and methods for ultrasonic detection of device distraction in medical treatments, featuring adjustable components for enhanced versatility, safety, and efficiency.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent for 'Systems and methods for ultrasonic detection of device distraction' addressed the need for precise control in distraction osteogenesis. However, the existing design had limitations in accommodating varying patient anatomies and pedicle screw sizes. The present invention solves these problems by introducing adjustable features, real-time feedback, and predictive analytics to ensure more effective and safer treatments.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The enhanced system comprises a monolithic member with an adjustable diameter to accommodate varying pedicle screw sizes, a distraction rod with a dynamically adjustable length, and a sensor array integrated into the monolithic member to provide real-time feedback on device performance. Additionally, the system incorporates an AI-powered algorithm to predict and prevent device failure based on real-time sensor data. The tapered end of the distraction rod facilitates easier insertion and removal. These innovative features enable more precise control, reduced complications, and improved patient outcomes.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce several novel features that are not obvious from the original patent. The adjustable diameter of the monolithic member, the dynamically adjustable length of the distraction rod, and the integration of real-time sensors and AI-powered predictive analytics represent significant advancements in the field of distraction osteogenesis.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the material composition of the monolithic member and distraction rod, incorporating additional sensors for enhanced feedback, or developing specialized versions for specific anatomical regions. These variations would ensure broad conceptual coverage and adaptability to diverse clinical scenarios.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The enhanced systems and methods for ultrasonic detection of device distraction have significant commercial potential in the orthopedic and medical device industries. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions focused on treating skeletal system disorders, particularly those requiring distraction osteogenesis procedures.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B17/7216
A A61 A61B17/68
A A61 A61B17/7016
A A61 A61B90/06
A A61 A61B17/702
A A61 A61B17/7008
A A61 A61B17/7068
A A61 A61B2017/681
A A61 A61B2090/061
A A61 A61B2090/3925
A A61 A61B2090/3929
Y Y10 Y10T29/49963
Y Y10 Y10T29/49966

Field of Art

Medical device engineering, specifically orthopedic surgical intervention technologies focusing on distraction osteogenesis and spinal/skeletal reconstruction devices

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or orthopedic medical device designer with advanced degree, expertise in mechanical design, biomaterials, surgical instrumentation, and familiarity with minimally invasive medical technologies

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the proposed variations represent predictable engineering modifications to the existing distraction device design. The core functional principles of the source patent remain intact, with incremental improvements that leverage standard design optimization techniques common in medical device development. The proposed enhancements represent logical extensions of existing technological capabilities within orthopedic surgical device engineering.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Monolithic member with housing for distraction rod
PTD Variation
Adjustable diameter monolithic member to accommodate varying pedicle screw sizes
Obviousness Reasoning
Dimensional adaptability is a standard design approach for medical devices, representing a predictable solution to accommodate anatomical variations using known mechanical design principles
Source Patent Element
Static distraction rod configuration
PTD Variation
Dynamically adjustable length distraction rod
Obviousness Reasoning
Length adaptability is a known technique in surgical instrumentation, representing a straightforward design modification to enhance device versatility and patient-specific customization
Source Patent Element
Mechanical distraction mechanism
PTD Variation
Integrated sensor array and AI-powered predictive analytics
Obviousness Reasoning
Incorporating sensor technologies and machine learning into medical devices is a recognized trend, representing an expected technological progression for enhanced diagnostic and preventative capabilities
Source Patent Element
Rigid distraction rod geometry
PTD Variation
Tapered end design to facilitate easier insertion and removal
Obviousness Reasoning
Geometric optimization for improved surgical insertion is a standard engineering approach, representing a predictable solution to reduce surgical complexity and patient trauma
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857226, the proposed technical variations represent obvious modifications to existing distraction osteogenesis device technologies. A person having ordinary skill in the art would find the claimed innovations predictable extensions of known medical device design principles, thereby rendering subsequent claims involving similar technical approaches obvious and non-patentable.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,226
TitleSystems and methods for ultrasonic detection of device distraction
Assignee(s)NuVasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc.