Expander Threadedly Engaged By Mover Patents (Class 411/55)
  • Patent number: 11946499
    Abstract: An expansion anchor having an anchor bolt, an expansion sleeve surrounding the anchor bolt, and an expansion body located in a front region of the anchor bolt, wherein the expansion body has a converging zone for expanding the expansion sleeve. The expansion body has at least one expansion sleeve abutment wall facing the expansion sleeve. The invention also relates to a method for using such an expansion anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Tanja Steinberg, Hideki Shimahara, Yijun Li, Matteo Spampatti, Christian Wachter, Guenter Domani, James Ary
  • Patent number: 11898590
    Abstract: Expandable collet bodies with sectional finger-based anti-rotation features are disclosed. The collet body comprises not only a plurality of gripping finger as a first part of a two-part anti-rotation means (ARM), but also a first part of a two part translation arresting means (TAM), which may or may not be sectional in nature and the TAM prevents over translation of a collet body within the work piece(s), and cooperates with a second part of the TAM associated with a work piece or an auxiliary structure. In this manner, a collet body inserted into a work piece or auxiliary structure will not accidentally be pushed beyond the blind side of the work piece(s) during insertion or initial clamp-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: CENTRIX INC.
    Inventor: Travis McClure
  • Patent number: 11821448
    Abstract: A blind bolt with a bolt head, a shaft portion on which a male screw is formed, and a bolt. An outer nut having a polygonal outer surface, and an outer nut hole penetrating in the axial direction. A cylindrical valve sleeve formed with a sleeve hole and an inner nut having a cylindrical portion. A nut head portion formed at one end of the cylindrical portion, and an inner nut hole having a female screw formed in a part inside. A plurality of outer peripheral grooves, extending in the outer peripheral direction are formed on the outer circumference of the valve sleeve. The cylindrical portion of the inner nut being inserted into the sleeve hole of the valve sleeve, the tip portion of the cylindrical portion inserted into the outer nut hole of the outer nut to prevent the inner nut from rotating with respect to the outer nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: NEWFREY LLC
    Inventor: Atsushi Takeda
  • Patent number: 11719270
    Abstract: An expansion anchor having an anchor bolt, an expansion sleeve surrounding the anchor bolt, and an expansion body located in a front region of the anchor bolt, wherein the expansion body has a converging zone for expanding the expansion sleeve, and wherein the expansion body is provided with at least one expansion body recess. The at least one expansion body recess is delimited by an expansion sleeve abutment wall, and the at least one expansion body recess has a nonaxisymmetric cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: Hilti Akiiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Hideki Shimahara
  • Patent number: 11639734
    Abstract: Fastener embodiments of the invention comprise a freely translatable collet body, which at least partially translates within an auxiliary structure, and further comprise a captive threaded screw for rotationally engaging with the collet body to transform rotational movement into translational movement through substantial arresting of collet body rotation by way of an anti-rotation means. The screw comprises a free-spin feature that functionally, but not physically, decouples a drive tool from the collet body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: Centrix Inc.
    Inventor: Travis McClure
  • Patent number: 11596523
    Abstract: The embodiments provide various interbody fusion spacers, or cages, for insertion between adjacent vertebrae. The cages may contain an articulating mechanism to allow expansion and angular adjustment, and enable upper and lower plate components to glide smoothly relative to one another. The cages may have a first, insertion configuration characterized by a reduced size at each of their insertion ends to facilitate insertion through a narrow access passage and into the intervertebral space. In their second, expanded configuration, the cages are able to maintain the proper disc height and stabilize the spine by restoring sagittal balance and alignment. The intervertebral cages are able to adjust the angle of lordosis, and can accommodate larger lodortic angles in their second, expanded configuration. Further, these cages may promote fusion to further enhance spine stability by immobilizing the adjacent vertebral bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Inventors: Guntmar Eisen, Detlev Ganter, Marcus Eif
  • Patent number: 11596522
    Abstract: The embodiments provide various interbody fusion spacers, or cages, for insertion between adjacent vertebrae. The cages may contain an articulating joint to allow expansion and angular adjustment, and enable upper and lower plate components to move relative to one another. The cages may have a first, insertion configuration characterized by a reduced size at each of their insertion ends to facilitate insertion through a narrow access passage and into the intervertebral space. In their second, expanded configuration, the cages are able to maintain the proper disc height and stabilize the spine by restoring sagittal balance and alignment. The intervertebral cages are able to adjust the angle of lordosis, and can accommodate larger lodortic angles in their second, expanded configuration. Further, these cages may promote fusion to further enhance spine stability by immobilizing the adjacent vertebral bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Inventors: Guntmar Eisen, Detlev Ganter, Marcus Eif
  • Patent number: 11541510
    Abstract: A pallet clamp includes a clamp receiver 110 and a clamp 130. The clamp receiver 110 has an abutted surface 111 with serrations, whereas the clamp 130 has an abutting surface 132 with serrations. The clamp receiver 110 has both of a pressed surface 180 and a counter pressed surface 181 which face in directions perpendicular to the direction along the extension of the serrations. A biasing means 150 press-fits the clamp receiver 110 and the clamp 130 to each other so that the abutting surface 132 and the abutted surface 111 come into tight contact with each other, which causes the pressed surface 180 and the counter pressed surface 181 to be pressed in opposite directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: KITAGAWA IRONWORKS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tamio Nishimiya
  • Patent number: 11261898
    Abstract: A fastening clip includes a clip body (1) having a pair of side walls (2) provided with windows (3); a pair of retaining portions (4) that are deflected during the placement of the fastening clip in its use position, each of the retaining portions (4) includes an end portion (5); and a head portion (6) provided at an end of the clip body (1) and protruding from the side walls (2). The end portions (5) include a bent portion (7), each end portion (5) being divided in two side portions (8) by a groove (9), and the bent portion (7) being in one of the two side portions (8). The fastening clip also includes a base body (11) having verification elements (12) that in the use position are placed in the groove (9) between the side portions (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Thiemo Ammann, Victor Diez Herrera
  • Patent number: 11229523
    Abstract: An orthopaedic assembly. The orthopaedic assembly includes a first member adapted to be coupled to a bone and an adjustable connector assembly including an adjuster having a threaded end and a tapered end. The assembly also includes an articulation component including a bearing surface and adapted to be coupled to the tapered end of the adjustable connector assembly. The threaded end is adapted to engage the fixation plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Jason M Chavarria, Scott A Lubensky
  • Patent number: 11199216
    Abstract: A box nut retainer system includes a panel configured to receive a fastener. The box nut retainer system includes a plurality of retainer legs extending from the panel. The box nut retainer system includes planar bends positioned at distal ends of the plurality of retainer legs. Straight beams extend from the planar bends. The straight beams have engagement angles relative to the plurality of retainer legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory George Buczynski
  • Patent number: 11134989
    Abstract: A pedicle insulator implant is designed to protect the nerves and surrounding tissue from injury by pedicle screws or other surgical devices and instruments. In its basic structure, the implant has a thicker section and a thinner section, the thicker section providing protection for nerves and other sensitive tissues while the thinner section can be deformable and provides grip. In one variation of the basic structure, the thinner section possess a rough surface when it is desirable in situations to provide further grip of the assembly and prevent rotation during the insertion of, for example, a pedicle screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: CHAP-MED, INC.
    Inventor: James L. Chappuis
  • Patent number: 11105199
    Abstract: A cuttable, sinkable mining bolt system for use in supporting the sidewall or rib in a coal mine. A bearing plate has a plurality of hollow cores defined transaxially therein and a central hole defined axially therethrough, the bearing plate made of modified recycled, rigid PVC compound. A fiberglass bolt is adapted to be inserted through the central hole of bearing plate. Bolt is one-piece consisting of glass fiber reinforced plastic. Head component includes a square head and integral, beveled washer for self-centering in the bearing plate as rod component is driven into rib. Bearing plates are adapted to sink into a refuse stream. Hollow cores of bearing plate reduce the material and thus the weight and expense of the bearing plate while still allowing the bearing plates to sink. Optionally, rod components can be inserted transaxially through the hollow cores to increase the strength and coverage of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Square Cut Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Frank M. Locotos, David J. Nardo
  • Patent number: 10995487
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides an undercut anchor including an attachment barrel and a cylindrical plug positioned in and moveable in the attachment barrel. The attachment barrel includes a cylindrical body, an outer rim extending outwardly and away from a bottom end of the body, and a plurality of independently pivotable gripping arms extending from a top end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley J. Cabaj, Tomasz Sikora
  • Patent number: 10973652
    Abstract: A fusion cage has a first component that defines an outside surface that is configured to engage a vertebral endplate, and an interior surface. The fusion cage has a second component that defines first and second opposed surfaces. One of the first and second opposed surfaces can mate with the interior surface of the first component. The fusion cage can include vertical and lateral throughholes adapted to enhance fusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John Riley Hawkins, Anwar M. Upal, Michael J. O'Neil, Michael Andrew Slivka, Michael Fisher
  • Patent number: 10920812
    Abstract: A fastener system is provided that includes a spindle bolt having a threaded section and a tooling interface at a head, a bolt body at least partially mated with the spindle bolt, including an anti-rotation slot and an outer surface, a nut including an interior threaded portion and an anti-rotation extension, and an expandable ring mated with the nut and including a lower clamping surface. In a clamping configuration of the fastener system, the lower clamping surface extends beyond the outer surface of the bolt body, the interior threaded portion of the nut is threadingly engaged with the threaded section of the spindle bolt, and the anti-rotation extension mates with the anti-rotation slot. In an installation configuration of the fastener system, a diameter of the lower clamping surface is less than a diameter of the lower clamping surface in the clamping configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Centrix Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Avetisian, Travis McClure, Zarko Baic
  • Patent number: 10865767
    Abstract: A rotor for a wind power installation, to a rotor blade for a wind power installation, to a sleeve, and to a method for the assembly of a rotor. A rotor for a wind power installation, having at least one rotor blade which is connected by means of a face side to a rotor hub, wherein the rotor blade comprises a transverse bolt recess which extends substantially radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the rotor blade and in which a transverse bolt is arranged, wherein the transverse bolt has a transverse bolt opening, a longitudinal bolt recess which extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rotor blade, wherein the longitudinal bolt recess and the transverse bolt recess have a common passage, and a longitudinal bolt is arranged within the longitudinal bolt recess and within the transverse bolt opening, a sleeve is arranged in the longitudinal bolt recess, wherein the longitudinal bolt extends through a cavity of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Wobben Properties GmbH
    Inventors: Florian Rubner, Florian Stops
  • Patent number: 10779956
    Abstract: An expandable interbody device for implantation within an intervertebral space is provided, together with methods and tools for use therewith. The interbody devices of the present invention include upper and lower bearing members configured to expand via an expansion mechanism configured to allow the insertion of osteoconductive materials and other structures into the interior of the interbody device before and after implantation, and before and after expansion of the interbody device. The insertion tool is configured expand the interbody device and to allow insertion of materials into the interbody device through a protected pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Pioneer Surgical Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott J. Perrow
  • Patent number: 10687955
    Abstract: A distally expanding facet implant with integrated plate and delivery device for distracting a cervical intervertebral facet joint to treat symptoms of degenerative processes of the cervical spine, including widening the intervertebral space and foramina while maintaining or restoring natural lordosis and preventing kyphosis. The distally expanding facet implant with integrated plate and delivery device generally includes opposed plates having distal and proximal ends, a diverting member having a stationary component and a moveable component comprising a diverting nut with a substantially fusiform cross-section between the plates, and a driving member comprising an elongated screw rotationally coupled with the moveable component. Rotation of the screw causes an engagement surface of the diverting nut to slide against a complementary engagement surface of the stationary component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventors: Ayman H. Al-Jazaeri, Amro F. Al-Habib
  • Patent number: 10575966
    Abstract: A bodiless bone fusion method, apparatus and device for insertion between bones that are to be fused together and/or in place of one or more of the bones, such as, for example, the vertebrae of a spinal column. The bodiless bone fusion device comprises one or more extendable plates, one or more extending blocks in communication with the extendable plates, one or more positioning elements for adjusting the extendable plates by manipulating the extending blocks, and one or more support panels for holding the positioning elements and guiding the extendable plates. The plates are able to be advantageously positioned in the confined space between the vertebrae to help brace the device until the bone has fused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: Neuropro Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph N. Logan, Gary R. McLuen, Daniel R. Baker
  • Patent number: 10555820
    Abstract: The present invention provides a spinal implant structure. The spinal implant structure comprises a first part, a second part and at least one expansion arm. The second part is disposed on the horizontal orientation of the first part and does not overlap with the first part. The diameter of the first part is larger than that of the second part. One end of the expansion arm is connected to the first part, and the other end of the expansion arm is free end. The expansion arm and the first part create an angle. The expansion arm includes a supporting arm. One end of the supporting arm is connected to the expansion arm, and the other end of the supporting arm is connected the second part. The support arm includes a plurality of structure weakness. When the distance between the first part and the second part changes, the support arm bends from the structure weakness, thereby the angle is increased and the spinal implant structure is expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignees: GROUP INNOMED BIOTECH CO., LTD., WILTROM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chang-Ho Tseng, Meng-Yuan Tsai
  • Patent number: 10548742
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method of inserting a lateral implant within an intervertebral space defined between an upper vertebral member and a lower vertebral member includes creating a lateral passage through a subject in order to provide minimally invasive access to the intervertebral space, at least partially clearing out native tissue of the subject within and/or near the intervertebral space, positioning a base plate within the intervertebral space, wherein the base plate comprise an upper base plate and a lower base plate and advancing an implant between the upper base plate and the lower base plate so that the implant is urged into the intervertebral space and the upper vertebral member is distracted relative to the lower vertebral member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Raed M. Ali, M.D., Inc.
    Inventor: Raed Ali
  • Patent number: 10390860
    Abstract: A pedicle insulator implant is designed to protect the nerves and surrounding tissue from injury by pedicle screws or other surgical devices and instruments. In its basic structure, the implant has a thicker section and a thinner section, the thicker section providing protection for nerves and other sensitive tissues while the thinner section can be deformable and provides grip. In one variation of the basic structure, the thinner section possess a rough surface when it is desirable in situations to provide further grip of the assembly and prevent rotation during the insertion of, for example, a pedicle screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: CHAP-MED, INC.
    Inventor: James L. Chappuis
  • Patent number: 10342668
    Abstract: An orthopedic assembly. The orthopedic assembly includes a first member adapted to be coupled to a bone and an adjustable connector assembly including an adjuster having a threaded end and a tapered end. The assembly also includes an articulation component including a bearing surface and adapted to be coupled to the tapered end of the adjustable connector assembly. The threaded end is adapted to engage the fixation plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M Chavarria, Scott A Lubensky
  • Patent number: 10342675
    Abstract: An expandable implant system is disclosed in which the system comprises an implant with: (1) top and bottom plates, (2) ramp surfaces formed on inner surfaces of the plates, and (3) an expansion member situated between the plates. An actuator also forms part of the system, the actuator being removable from between the top and bottom plates after implantation of the implant. The expansion member has a set of angled surfaces for mating with the ramp surfaces of the plates and, upon movement of the expansion member along a longitudinal axis of the implant, the top and bottom plates expand from a first dimension to a second greater dimension. The top and bottom plates are also securable at varying angles to one another depending on the amount of movement of the expansion member along the ramp surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas A. Alheidt
  • Patent number: 10327909
    Abstract: A cervical plate formed from an expandable clip that is drawn toward a plate by use of a draw screw coupled to a draw bar. The draw bar is placed in an aperture having engagement with an angular surface that operates in conjunction with a proximal and distal end of the clip, which engages a tab to cause expansion when the draw screw engages the draw bar across a plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Atlas Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew G. Baynham
  • Patent number: 10278832
    Abstract: Interbody fusion devices, insertion tools, methods for assembling an interbody fusion device, and methods for inserting a medical device between two vertebral bodies are disclosed. The interbody fusion device includes a base member, a top member, and at least one movement mechanism. The base member includes at least one of a pivotal cylinder and a hinge channel. The top member includes at least one of a pivot cylinder and a hinge channel. The at least one pivot cylinder of the base member engages the at least one hinge channel of the top member and the at least one pivot cylinder of the top member engages the at least one hinge channel of the base member. The at least one movement mechanism engages the top member and the base member. Also disclosed are a vertebral spacer device and an interbody spacer system including an insertion tool and an interbody fusion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: BIOSPINE, LLC
    Inventors: Ross R. Nichols, Daniel Refai, Brian G. Emerick, Heidi Stamets
  • Patent number: 10247218
    Abstract: A fastener assembly includes a first component having a back face and a first mating face opposing the back face, and a second component having a front face and a second mating face opposing the front face. The first component and the second component arranged such that the first mating face is closest to the second mating face. A bushing is installed through the first component, an outer surface of the bushing having frictional engagement with the first component to retain the bushing thereat. A threaded fastener extends through the bushing and the second component, and transmits a load into the bushing. A nut is secured to the fastener at the second component to retain the second component at the first component and which induces the load into the fastener. The frictional engagement between the bushing and the first component is configured to resist the load applied to the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Adrial Kirchen, Richard T. Bourque, Kristin Elizabeth Mailhot
  • Patent number: 10231823
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for anchoring a ligament or tendon to bone. In one embodiment, a biceps tenodesis system is provided and includes a sheath inserter tool, an expandable sheath configured to couple to the sheath inserter tool, an expander inserter tool, and an expander configured to couple to the expander inserter tool. The sheath inserter tool is configured to advance the expandable sheath, with a tendon disposed therearound, into a bone hole, and the expander inserter tool is configured to advance the expander through an outer shaft of the sheath inserter tool and to drive the expander into the sheath. The expander is configured to be received within a lumen extending at least partially through the expandable sheath to thereby expand the sheath. In this way, the system delivers the tendon or ligament into the bone hole and locks the sheath and tendon within the bone hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: MEDOS INTERNATIONAL SARL
    Inventors: Justin M. Piccirillo, Gerome Miller, Sherri Sa
  • Patent number: 10219841
    Abstract: Bone structure coupling devices and methods are provided herein. An example method includes positioning a tubular retraction guide body into a patient, the tubular retraction guide body having two prongs that are positioned in a joint between two adjacent bone structures, creating a hemispherical groove on each of the two adjacent bone structures using a drill bit passed through the tubular retraction guide body, incising out the hemispherical grooves with a broach passed through the tubular retraction guide body, and inserting a graft body having a generally rectangular cross sectional area into the angular grooves to couple the two adjacent bone structures together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: Foundation Fusion Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Robert A. Compton, Mark Billy Willits
  • Patent number: 10215210
    Abstract: A fastener including a bolt having a head, a shank portion, and an annular groove located intermediate the head and the shank portion, and a sleeve having a head, a shank portion, an inner cavity, a recess located in the head of the sleeve, and an annular tab located at a bottom of the recess and proximate to the shank portion of the sleeve. The sleeve receives the bolt such that the shank portion of the bolt is positioned within the inner cavity of the sleeve and the head of the bolt is positioned within the recess of the head of the sleeve. When the bolt is in an installed position within the sleeve, the annular tab of the sleeve is deformed and engages the annular groove of the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Arconic Inc.
    Inventor: Donald C. Busby
  • Patent number: 10194963
    Abstract: An orthopedic screw includes a main body having a torqueing end, an inner chamber formed therein, and at least two mating features separated by a separation gap, the separation gap extending into the inner chamber, at least one of the at least two mating features having a first tapered portion with an increasing width and a second tapered portion with a decreasing width; and a support member removably placed in the inner chamber of the main body and having a support portion at least partially filling the separation gap between the at least two mating features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: SMed-TA/TD, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory C. Stalcup, Troy D. Knapp, Travis Geels
  • Patent number: 10159584
    Abstract: An insertion instrument for expandable spinal implants includes an elongate member, a shuttle, and a worm gear. The elongate member includes a handle portion of a proximal end and an end effector on a distal end, wherein the end effector is configured to be releasably engaged to an expandable spinal implant. The shuttle is slidably disposed within a cavity defined within the end effector and includes a wedged shaped distal end configured to engage an expandable spinal implant. The worm gear is rotatably disposed within the cavity defined in the end effector and is in mechanical communication with the shuttle, such that rotation of the worm gear effectuates movement of the shuttle. Distal movement of the shuttle effectuates articulation of an expandable spinal implant. A method of performing surgery is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: K2M, Inc.
    Inventors: Megan Carnes, John Donohoe, Scott Jones
  • Patent number: 10098757
    Abstract: A bodiless bone fusion method, apparatus and device for insertion between bones that are to be fused together and/or in place of one or more of the bones, such as, for example, the vertebrae of a spinal column. The bodiless bone fusion device comprises one or more extendable plates, one or more extending blocks in communication with the extendable plates, one or more positioning elements for adjusting the extendable plates by manipulating the extending blocks, and one or more support panels for holding the positioning elements and guiding the extendable plates. The plates are able to be advantageously positioned in the confined space between the vertebrae to help brace the device until the bone has fused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Neuropro Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph N. Logan, Gary R. McLuen, Daniel R. Baker
  • Patent number: 10085846
    Abstract: An expandable medical implant is provided with an implantable cage body. Methods for stabilizing and correcting the alignment of a spine with an expandable medical implant are provided. The proximal and distal ends of the cage body may each be provided with a plug for causing expansion of the ends of the implant and therefore the bone engaging surfaces of the implant. The proximal plug member may be configured to move longitudinally such that the proximal end of the cage body resiliently expands. The distal plug member may be configured to move longitudinally such that the distal end of the cage body resiliently expands. The proximal and distal plug members are moved longitudinally independently from one another to allow for independent expansion and contraction of each of the proximal and distal ends of the cage body itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: IORTHOPEDICS, INC.
    Inventor: Robert Thomas Grotz
  • Patent number: 10039650
    Abstract: An expandable fusion cage system includes an expandable fusion cage having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a hinge portion coupling the lower portion and the upper portion at their distal ends. Positioned between the upper and lower portions is an expansion element that when moved in the proximal direction causes the cage to expand at its proximal end. The system can also include inserter instruments, expandable distraction instruments, and bone funnels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: IN QUEUE INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Lamborne, Patrick Hunt, Joel Helgerson, Troy Woolley, Richard Fessler, Clint Hill, K. Brandon Strenge, Kenneth Little, Alex Speciale
  • Patent number: 9993268
    Abstract: A pedicle insulator implant is designed to protect the nerves and surrounding tissue from injury by pedicle screws or other surgical devices and instruments. In its basic structure, the implant has a thicker section and a thinner section, the thicker section providing protection for nerves and other sensitive tissues while the thinner section can be deformable and provides grip. In one variation of the basic structure, the thinner section possess a rough surface when it is desirable in situations to provide further grip of the assembly and prevent rotation during the insertion of, for example, a pedicle screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Inventor: James L. Chappuis
  • Patent number: 9980825
    Abstract: Interbody fusion devices, insertion tools, methods for assembling an interbody fusion device, and methods for inserting a medical device between two vertebral bodies are disclosed. The interbody fusion device includes a base member, a top member, and at least one movement mechanism. The base member includes at least one of a pivot cylinder and a hinge channel. The top member includes at least one of a pivot cylinder and a hinge channel. The at least one pivot cylinder of the base member engages the at least one hinge channel of the top member and the at least one pivot cylinder of the top member engages the at least one hinge channel of the base member. The at least one movement mechanism engages the top member and the base member. Also disclosed are a vertebral spacer device and an interbody spacer system including an insertion tool and an interbody fusion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: BIOSPINE, LLC
    Inventors: Ross R Nichols, Daniel Refai, Brian G Emerick, Heidi Stamets
  • Patent number: 9889020
    Abstract: A spinal implant formed from a hinged distractor having an upper and lower support body that is hinged by use of pinions. An insert body is constructed and arranged to slide between the section to expand both in height and width, and to maintain a space therebetween. The insert body includes a leading edge that is tapered to allow ease of insertion. A trailing edge that extends beyond a front edge of the upper support body will cause the insert body to be locked into position. A trailing edge engages the rear of the upper support body to prevent over insertion. A lower surface of the insert body may include locking surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Atlas Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew G. Baynham
  • Patent number: 9872779
    Abstract: An intervertebral implant comprises a first component and a second component. The second component includes an actuator and a third component comprises a first ramp and a second ramp axially spaced apart from the first ramp. The third component comprises rails including at least a portion of the ramps. At least one of the ramp portions disposed with the first rail has a first height and at least one of the ramp portions disposed with the second rail has a second height. The first height is greater than the second height. The actuator is engageable with the third component to effect axial translation such that the ramps engage at least one of the components between a first configuration and a second configuration. Methods of use are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith E. Miller, Stanley T. Palmatier, Anthony J. Melkent, William D. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 9867717
    Abstract: Improved methods and apparatuses for vertebral body distraction and fusion in accordance with various embodiments employ mechanisms for stabilizing a device so that the device can stay in the body and stably support the disc space during vertebral fusion following distraction of the adjacent vertebra by operation of the device. The device is inserted into the disc space and distracted from a compressed configuration to an expanded configuration to distract the disc space. Mechanisms for stabilizing the device in the expanded configuration constrain the device to zero degrees of freedom of movement to allow the device to stably support the disc space. A bone growth stimulant for promoting vertebral fusion can be inserted into an open space defined by the device, which continues to stably support the disc space during vertebral fusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Ex Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Omar F. Jimenez
  • Patent number: 9861495
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method of inserting a lateral implant within an intervertebral space defined between an upper vertebral member and a lower vertebral member includes creating a lateral passage through a subject in order to provide minimally invasive access to the intervertebral space, at least partially clearing out native tissue of the subject within and/or near the intervertebral space, positioning a base plate within the intervertebral space, wherein the base plate comprise an upper base plate and a lower base plate and advancing an implant between the upper base plate and the lower base plate so that the implant is urged into the intervertebral space and the upper vertebral member is distracted relative to the lower vertebral member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Raed M. Ali, M.D., Inc.
    Inventor: Raed Ali
  • Patent number: 9827108
    Abstract: A prosthesis system comprises plates that can be positioned against vertebrae and a selected resilient core that can be positioned between the plates to allow the plates to articulate. The selected resilient core can be chosen from a plurality of cores in response to patient characteristics, such as age and/or intervertebral mobility, such that the prosthesis implanted in the patient is tailored to the needs of the patient. The plurality of cores may comprise cores with different resiliencies, and one of the cores can be selected such that the upper and lower plates articulate with the desired shock absorbing resiliency and/or maximum angle of inclination when the one selected core is positioned between the plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Simplify Medical Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Malan de Villiers, David Hovda, James Shapiro
  • Patent number: 9770324
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fixation device. The fixation device includes a base portion having a first leg, a second leg, and a groove located between the first and second legs, and a top portion extending from the base portion. A method of tissue repair and a kit are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Trenhaile, Thomas C. May
  • Patent number: 9677586
    Abstract: The invention relates to an anchor (1) that can be secured in a drilled hole (2), with an expansion sleeve (10) for anchoring onto a wall (3) of the drilled hole, and with an anchor bolt (20) that passes through the expansion sleeve and that has an expansion section (38) for widening the expansion sleeve, and it also has a stop (22) that limits axial movement of the expansion sleeve away from the expansion section. According to the invention, at least one rotary catch (24) is provided which non-rotatably couples the expansion sleeve to the anchor bolt, and the expansion sleeve has at least one cutting projection (14) for creating an undercut in the wall of the drilled hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Bernd Trautwein
  • Patent number: 9668879
    Abstract: An expandable intervertebral cage device includes a first base plate and a second base plate, a proximal block with internal threading that mechanically couples the first base plate and the second base plate, and a distal block comprising an internal passage. The device has exactly two arm assemblies, one on each side. Each arm assembly includes a first arm mechanically coupled to the first base plate and the distal block, and a second arm is mechanically coupled to the second base plate and the distal block. A screw is arranged partially within the internal threading of the proximal block and passes through the internal passage of the distal block, such that rotation of the screw relative to the proximal block causes a change in distance between the proximal block and the distal block, and a corresponding change in the spacing and lordosis of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Ex Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Omar F. Jimenez, Yefim Safris
  • Patent number: 9622872
    Abstract: A spinal implant is provided. The spinal implant comprises a body configured for implantation between two adjacent vertebrae, and comprises a retaining member movable between a first position where the retaining member is in an unexpanded configuration and a second position where the retaining member is in an expanded configuration. The retaining member comprises a tissue contacting surface configured to engage a lamina of at least one of the adjacent vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. McKay
  • Patent number: 9622878
    Abstract: An expandable medical implant is provided with an implantable cage body. The proximal and distal ends of the cage body may each be provided with a tapered or cam portion. The implant may further include a proximal flexure, a distal flexure, a proximal plug member having a tapered portion configured to mate with the tapered portion of the proximal end of the cage body, and a distal plug member having a tapered portion configured to mate with the tapered portion of the distal end of the cage body. The proximal plug member may be configured to move longitudinally such that the distal flexure moves and the circumference of the proximal end of the cage body resiliently expands. The distal plug member may be configured to move longitudinally such that the proximal flexure moves and the circumference of the distal end of the cage body resiliently expands. Methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Inventor: Robert Thomas Grotz
  • Patent number: 9579213
    Abstract: An expandable cage (1) for maintaining a distance between two vertebras on a spine and providing fusion is disclosed. The expandable cage (1) comprises a horizontal axis, a front part with an upper arm (1.1), a lower arm (1.2), and shaft fixation sockets (1.7.1 and 1.7.2) located between the arms (1.1 and 1.2), and a hollow shaft (2) with graft holes (2.4). The shaft (2) is placed parallel to the horizontal axis and partially inside the shaft fixation sockets (1.7.1 and 1.7.2). The cage (1) is expanded vertically by rotating the shaft (2) 90 degrees with an instrument, thus further separating vertically the upper arm (1.1) and the lower arm (1.2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Inventor: Kamil Bal
  • Patent number: 9574594
    Abstract: A pin for a blind bolt, the pin having a proximal end, a distal end and a shaft between the proximal and distal ends, extending axially from the distal end an outwardly tapered surface and an inwardly tapered surface, the pin comprising a strike portion at the proximal end, wherein the cross sectional area of the strike portion is greater than the cross sectional area of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Imperius Limited
    Inventor: Julian Andrew Imm