Theoretical Analysis of the Mechanical Performance of Implantable Devices Used in the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures (Kyphoplasty, SpineJack, Tri-Blade) and a Proposal of a Two-Arm Device with Increased Performance

Abstract

In this study, an analysis of the behavior of the vertebra during the use of KP and SJ was carried out to understand the kinematics of the movement of the fragments of the vertebra during action and the forces generated in the use of the two methods. For this analysis, the results published by various authors were used. Only the principle of the mechanical actuation of the vertebra fragments was analyzed, without addressing other aspects such as the method of cement introduction, the type of cement used, PMMA hardening times, the duration of the operation, the patient’s recovery time, etc. In addition to the analysis, the authors propose a device that eliminates the inconveniences observed in the two analyzed devices and promises to significantly improve the restoration of the vertebra’s height and, consequently, the patient’s symptoms. The observations show that the type of mechanism articulated at one end has both robustness and greater efficiency in this type of actuation. It is further shown that from this category, the mechanism with two arms (Two-Arm Device) proposed by the authors is superior to the existing ones in terms of robustness and efficiency. The perspectives of TAD are represented by the improvement of the vertebral statics and, consequently, the symptoms of the patients.