Spacer Type Patents (Class 606/249)
  • Patent number: 8591548
    Abstract: A spinal implant helps stabilize vertebrae for fusion. The implant includes first and second plates, a brace and a locking mechanism. When installed, the plates extend superiorly-inferiorly along respective lateral sides of the spinous processes. The plates are moved toward one another and relative to the brace by the locking mechanism to clamp the implant to the spinous processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Fiorella
  • Patent number: 8585738
    Abstract: An insert for establishing a desired spacing between a pair of succeeding vertebrae and having a body including an extending end for supporting a location associated with a first selected lumbar vertebrae. An opposite extending end supports a spaced apart and opposing location associated with a second successively positioned lumbar vertebrae. Upon pre-positioning the body in an open space established between the vertebrae, an actuating input causes the first extending end to displace outwardly relative to the second end and into contacting support with the vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Publication number: 20130296940
    Abstract: An interspinous fusion device is described. The interspinous fusion device includes a spacer member and an anchor member. The spacer member has a ring with two or more anchor assemblies projecting laterally from substantially opposite sides of the spacer member ring. The spacer member further has a first zip lock flange and a second zip lock flange, each of the first and second zip lock flanges extends transversely from the spacer member ring wherein each of the first and second zip lock flanges each comprises a series of teeth protruding from it. The anchor member has a ring with two or more anchor assemblies projecting laterally from substantially opposite sides of the anchor member ring. The anchor member further has a barrel extending transversely from the anchor member ring. The barrel comprises a first column of recesses adapted to mate with the teeth of the first zip lock flange and a second column of recesses adapted to mate with the teeth of the second zip lock flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Aurora Spine, LLC
    Inventor: Aurora Spine, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130296939
    Abstract: Provided is a bi-dimensionally adjustable spacing device configured to be placed between the spinous processes of at least two adjacent vertebrae and also adjusted laterally to securely contact the lateral surfaces of the spinous process. A method of using the device to treat spinal disorders is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Richard PERKINS
  • Patent number: 8574267
    Abstract: An insert for establishing a desired spacing between a pair of succeeding vertebrae and having a body including an extending end for supporting a location associated with a first selected lumbar vertebrae. An opposite extending end supports a spaced apart and opposing location associated with a second successively positioned lumbar vertebrae. Upon pre-positioning the body in an open space established between the vertebrae, an actuating input causes the first extending end to displace outwardly relative to the second end and into contacting support with the vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Linares Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Publication number: 20130289622
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer or member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in an expanded configuration has a size, volume and/or shape configured for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in order to distract the vertebrae relative to each other. The systems include one or more expandable members and a mechanical actuation means for expanding the expandable member. The methods involve the implantation of one or more devices or expandable spacers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel H. Kim
  • Patent number: 8568460
    Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, T. Wade Fallin, Henry A. Klyce
  • Patent number: 8568454
    Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, T. Wade Fallin, Henry A. Klyce
  • Patent number: 8568455
    Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, T. Wade Fallin, Henry A. Klyce
  • Patent number: 8562681
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a system for use in a laminoplasty procedure, the system including an implant comprising a first body and a second body, the first and second bodies adapted to slide relative to one another; and an implantation instrument including: a shaft having a longitudinal length, a proximal end, a distal end and a hollow throughbore along at least a portion of its length; a handle positioned on the proximal end of the shaft; an actuator rod having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the actuator rod being positioned within the hollow throughbore of the shaft; a knob adapted to engage the proximal portion of the actuator rod; a first connector adapted to engage the distal portion of the actuator rod; and a second connector fixedly secured to the distal end of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Styker Spine
    Inventors: Yolanda D. Shepard, Charles L. Bush, Jr., Douglas Pedrick
  • Publication number: 20130253585
    Abstract: A surgical fixation system for stabilizing spinous processes of adjacent vertebral bodies relative to one another comprising at least one first fixing element and at least one second fixing element, which can be transferred relative to one another from an insertion position into an implantation position, wherein the fixing elements in the implantation position have a smaller spacing from one another than in the insertion position and in which implantation position the fixing elements are engageable laterally from different sides with at least one of the spinous processes in each case, and comprising a securing device for securing the fixing elements relative to one another in the implantation position and comprising at least one spacer element, which can be fixed by the fixing elements in the implantation position thereof in the intervertebral space between the spinous processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Rolando GARCIA, Alexander Hass, Jens Beger, Susanne Klingseis, Robert Schultz, Claudia Vollmer, Wolfgang Daiber, Roland Hoegerle, Christian Praedel, Johannes Wimber
  • Patent number: 8540752
    Abstract: In accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention, a flexible mesh bag including a catenoidal central portion (106) and two bulbous end portions (104, 108) may be employed as a spinal spacer. The mesh may be percutaneously implanted between adjacent spinous processes (202, 204) to correct the position and orientation of a spine and thereby relieve any discomfort associated with spinal stenosis. Additionally, the mesh may be filled with a bone graft material to permit bone fusion for long-term stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Spine Tek, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandre de Moura
  • Patent number: 8540751
    Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, T. Wade Fallin, Charles J. Winslow, Henry A. Klyce
  • Publication number: 20130238029
    Abstract: The invention concerns a distance-keeping inter-process implant with a body ending in its posterior part with two opposite-situated resistance protrusions. In the anterior part of the body there are situated at least two wings, at least one of which is a mobile wing connected with the body by an articulated joint. Each wing is provided with at least one guide of the tensioning band. The articulated joint between the mobile wing and the body is formed by the mutually collaborating shaped surface of the. wing (and the shaped surface of the body and is usefully secured by the pin that constitutes the axis of rotation of the mobile wing. In an alternative version of the implementation of the implant, the mobile wing connected with the body is provided with at least one arm situated with respect to the wing at the angle a amounting to from 30° to 150°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Lechoslaw Franciszek Ciupik, Robert Gunzburg, Jerzy Pieniazek, Marek Szpalski, Daniel Zarzycki
  • Patent number: 8529607
    Abstract: A system for restricting flexion of a spinal segment in a patient comprises a constraint device having a tether structure and a compliance member coupled with the tether structure. The tether structure is adapted to be coupled with a superior spinous process and a sacrum. The system also includes an anchor member that is anchored to the sacrum. The anchor member has an attachment feature that is adapted to couple with the constraint device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Simpirica Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Alamin, Louis Fielding, Darin Gittings, Hugues Malandain, Anand Parikh, Eller Torres, Ian Bennett
  • Patent number: 8529626
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling motion and physiologic load sharing across a functional spinal unit defined by a pair of adjacent vertebrae and an intervertebral disc therebetween are provided. The systems may comprise a first component for repairing or replacing a disc nucleus, without substantially disrupting the annulus. A second component may be provided for attachment to the adjacent vertebrae, the second component being configured to control movement of the vertebrae relative to one another. The first and second components may be configured to cooperate simultaneously to control motion and collectively distribute physiologic load sharing across the functional spinal unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Centinel Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Seme
  • Patent number: 8523910
    Abstract: Interspinous process implants are disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and kits including such implants, methods of inserting such implants, and methods of alleviating pain or discomfort associated with the spinal column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Jody L. Seifert, Jamie A. Calverly, David C. Paul, Michael L. Boyer, II, Jason Zappacosta
  • Patent number: 8518083
    Abstract: A conical interspinous apparatus includes a distractor comprising an insertion portion and a central engagement groove, the insertion portion having a conical shape which tapers to a tip and is adapted to enable passage of the distractor between two spinous processes of vertebrae, and the central engagement groove is adapted to secure the distractor between the two spinous processes such that the two spinous processes rest in the central engagement groove. The conical interspinous apparatus includes a stabilizer which is adapted to be deployed from within the distractor to secure the two spinous processes within the central engagement groove and an insertion driver detachably coupled to a rear portion of the distractor. A guide wire, having a pointed tip, aids in the insertion of the distractor between the two spinous processes and is configured to guide the insertion of the distractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Alphatec Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: James J. Yue
  • Patent number: 8500779
    Abstract: For minimally-invasive therapy for spinal canal stenosis, a therapeutic device capable of stationing an interspinous process spacer without the need of large skin incision or ligamentous tissue incision and also without the need of detaching of the paraspinal muscle from the spine. The interspinous process spacer includes a conoid screw region (2) to be screwed into a processus spinosus interspace; a spacer region (3) in the longitudinal direction of the screw region (2); head region (4) capable of free interlocking with a tool arbitrarily; and through-hole (5) passing through the axial centers of screw region (2), spacer region (3) and head region (4). The processus spinosus interspace is enlarged by screwing of the screw region (2) into the processus spinosus interspace. The spacer region (3) is pinched upon passing of the screw region (2) through the processus spinosus interspace to attain enlarging and fixing of adjacent processus spinosus interspaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: National University Corporation Kobe University
    Inventor: Kotaro Nishida
  • Patent number: 8500778
    Abstract: An interspinous process spacer is generally rectangular and may have an upper face that generally opposes a lower face, front and back sides that generally oppose each other, an end side, and a nose that generally opposes the end side. The spacer preferably has rounded edges between the upper face and the front, end, and back sides and between the lower face and the front, end, and back sides. The nose of the spacer is preferably asymmetrical and tapers integrally, distally, and inwardly from the first and second faces to form a generally pointed or rounded distal tip. A spacer may be inserted laterally into the interspinous space through a small, posterior midline incision, allowing the preservation of the supraspinous ligament. One or more spacers may be placed between spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae, and result in distraction of the spinous processes which may limit extension of the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Depuy Synthes Products, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin L. Jackson, David Chow, Robert J. Delurio
  • Patent number: 8496688
    Abstract: A flexible spine fixing structure for fixing to a first vertebra and a second vertebra includes a first flexible element and a second flexible element. The first flexible element includes a first flexible part, a first fixing part and a second fixing part. The first fixing part and the second fixing part are respectively connected to two ends of the first flexible part and used for fixing to the first vertebra, and the first flexible part includes a first through hole and a second through hole. The second flexible element includes a second flexible part, a third fixing part and a fourth fixing part. The third fixing part and the fourth fixing part are respectively connected to two ends of the second flexible part and used for fixing to the second vertebra. The second flexible part is disposed by penetrating through the first through hole and the second through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Jaw-Lin Wang, Dar-Ming Lai, Shan-Chang Chueh, Chih-Ming Wu, Pei-Yu Peng
  • Patent number: 8496689
    Abstract: There is provided a spinal implant device for placement between adjacent spinous processes and a pair of opposing facet joints. The spinal implant device includes a fusion cage, first and second fixation plates and a connector for connecting the cage to the plates. The fusion cage includes a superficial face, a deep face, superior and inferior saddle portions, and opposing cage ends. Each cage end defining a facet fusion surface sized and configured to respectively contact the opposing facet joints. The first and second fixation plate are sized and configured to extend along and in contact with the adjacent spinous processes. A method of implanting the device is provided. In another embodiment the device includes the fusion cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Farzad Massoudi
  • Patent number: 8491633
    Abstract: Intervertebral spacer to be placed between two adjacent, upper and lower cervical vertebrae, the spacer comprising a spacer body and retention member for retaining the spacer body in position against said vertebrae. The retention member includes a strap and fastener member that are removable and self-blocking, enabling the ends of the strap to be secured to the spacer body. The spacer body including: a spacer part having two opposite ends, a portion of the first end configured to be inserted between the vertebrae; and top and bottom flanges connected via their bases to the second end of the spacer part and extending on either side thereof, each flange presenting an anterior face facing towards the spacer part and configured to bear against the posterior portion of the lamina of the upper or lower vertebra, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Zimmer Spine
    Inventors: Denis Pasquet, Régis Le Couedic
  • Publication number: 20130184754
    Abstract: The present invention provides spinous process implants and associated methods. In one aspect of the invention, the implant includes at least one extension with a first part and a second part where at least one arm is coupled to each of the first part and the second part. The first part and the second part are movable from a compact to a distracted state. In another aspect, the present invention provides a second extension that is slidingly coupled to the first and second arms. The second extension further comprises a third part and a fourth part that move with the first and second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: LANX INC.
    Inventor: Lanx Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130172933
    Abstract: An implantable spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes in a spinal motion segment is provided. The spacer includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and passageway. A first arm and a second arm are connected to the body. Each arm has a pair of extensions and a saddle defining a U-shaped configuration for seating a spinous process therein. Each arm has a proximal caming surface and is capable of rotation with respect to the body. An actuator assembly is disposed inside the passageway and connected to the body. When advanced, a threaded shaft of the actuator assembly contacts the caming surfaces of arms to rotate them from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the distracted adjacent spinous processes are seated in the U-shaped portion of the arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: VertiFlex, Inc.
    Inventors: Moti Altarac, Shawn Tebbe, Joey Camia Reglos, Yang Cheng, Murali P. Kadaba, Daniel H. Kim
  • Patent number: 8475497
    Abstract: A spinal implant that includes plates and at least one connector for attachment to spinous processes. The plates may be sized to extend along opposing lateral sides of spinous processes. Connectors may be attached to the plates and extend across the spinous processes. Each of the connectors may be sized and shaped to extend over and across a spinous process and connect the opposing plates together. The connectors may be constructed from a shape-memory material to facilitate attachment with the plates and attachment of the assembly to the spinous processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. Grizzard
  • Publication number: 20130165974
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventor: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
  • Publication number: 20130165975
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: VERTIFLEX, INC.
    Inventor: Vertiflex, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8470000
    Abstract: Implantable devices are provided for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae and the lumbosacral region of a patient. The devices can comprise an interspinous flexible spacer body having a substantially U-shape comprising a superior section, inferior section, and a midsection extending therebetween. The superior and/or inferior sections can include a pair of lateral walls configured to engage a spinous process of a vertebra. Fixation caps can be provided for securing a spinous process of a vertebra to the flexible spacer body. To secure the flexible spacer body between the lumbar vertebra and an adjacent vertebra, an anchor assembly is provided. Also provided are methods of using the implantable devices to stabilize a patient's spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Paradigm Spine, LLC
    Inventors: Frank T. Trautwein, Gary L. Lowery, Guntmar H. Eisen, Rudolf Bertagnoli, Marc R. Viscogliosi, David I. Biondo
  • Publication number: 20130158604
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device that is configured to be implanted adjacent interspinous processes of a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: Bryan Okamoto
  • Publication number: 20130158603
    Abstract: An interspinous process spacer is disclosed. The interspinous process spacer may be configured to be minimally invasive and adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Todd Bjork, Dan McPhillips, Garrett Ganske, Dwight Tyndall, Kari Ellen Riina
  • Publication number: 20130150886
    Abstract: An implantable spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes in a spinal motion segment is provided. The spacer includes a body defining a longitudinal passageway. A first arm and a second arm are connected to the body. Each arm has a pair of extensions and a saddle defining a U-shaped configuration for seating a spinous process therein. An actuator assembly is disposed inside the longitudinal passageway and connected to the body. When advanced, the actuator assembly contacts camming surfaces of the arms to rotate them from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the distracted adjacent spinous processes are seated in the U-shaped portion of the arms providing sufficient distraction to open the neural foramen. An insertion instrument is provided for implanting the interspinous process spacer. The system is configured for implantation through a small percutaneous incision employing minimally invasive techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: VertiFlex, Inc.
    Inventors: Moti Altarac, Shawn Tebbe
  • Publication number: 20130144339
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for treating the spine are disclosed herein. Medical devices can be positioned along a subject's spine to treat various conditions and diseases. The medical device can include an actuator assembly and a clamp assembly. The actuator assembly can be positioned at an interspinous space between a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process. The actuator assembly can be used to reconfigure the clamp assembly such that the clamp assembly clamps onto the superior and inferior spinous processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Vertiflex, Inc.
    Inventor: Vertiflex, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130144340
    Abstract: The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of spinal stenosis. An implant for insertion between adjacent spinous processes is provided. The implant can include a body having a first end, a second end and defining a bore. The implant can include a first cap coupled to the first end of the body, a second cap coupled to the second end of the body, with each of the caps defining a space. The implant can include a connector coupled to the first cap and the second cap through the bore. The implant can include at least one deployable member coupled to the first end of the body and the first cap. The at least one deployable member can be retained within the first space in a first position, and can extend from the first space in a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: EBI, LLC
    Inventor: EBI, LLC
  • Patent number: 8454700
    Abstract: An interbody vertebral implant for facilitating fusion of adjacent vertebrae. The implant includes a first end plate, a second end plate, and an intermediate member disposed therebetween. The end plates are configured to allow bone in-growth. The intermediate member may include features to engage the end plates and to prevent over insertion of the intermediate member within the end plates. The implant may include a cavity extending through the composite implant configured to receive bone growth material to facilitate fusion between a first vertebra and a second vertebra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Zimmer Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy J. Lemoine, Charles H. Perrone, Jr., Eric M. Simon, Daniel A. Carlson, Hugh D. Hestad
  • Patent number: 8454660
    Abstract: A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Simpirica Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Alamin, Ian Bennett, Colin Cahill, Louis Fielding
  • Publication number: 20130131726
    Abstract: A cervical spine spacer includes a spacer body configured to be disposed between adjacent cervical vertebrae in the cervical spine and to maintain a desired spacing between the adjacent cervical vertebrae. The cervical spine spacer also includes a channel passing completely through the spacer body from a first surface of the spacer body to a second surface of the spacer body and a fastener configured to pass through the channel. At least one of the first surface and the second surface is configured to contact one of the adjacent cervical vertebrae and the channel is sized to accommodate the fastener passing through the channel at a plurality of angles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventors: Sean Suh, Jon Suh, Ryan Watt
  • Patent number: 8439950
    Abstract: The invention relates to an implant that can be located between adjacent spinous processes of two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column in order to separate adjacent vertebrae from each other, where the implant displays four projections and can be located in a stabilizing position in which two projections can be located on opposite sides of the vertebral column and where, on each side, one of the two projections can be located along the vertebral column, laterally to an upper and a lower vertebra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Taurus GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus P. Zentes, Uwe Siedler
  • Patent number: 8439951
    Abstract: An implantable interlaminar-interspinous stabilization system is provided. The system may comprise a U-shaped implantable device having an inferior section, a superior section, a midsection extending therebetween, and pair of lateral walls for engaging a spinous process of a vertebra, each of the lateral walls including an aperture with a countersink for receiving a bone fastener. The system may also include a bone fastener comprising a threaded bolt and a threaded nut for securing the implantable device to the spinous processes. Insertion tools may be provided for aligning the threaded bolt and nut through the apertures of the implantable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Paradigm Spine, LLC
    Inventors: Frank T. Trautwein, Ralf Riesinger, Gary L. Lowery, Marc R. Viscogliosi
  • Patent number: 8425604
    Abstract: A spinal implant for insertion into an intervertebral disc space for intervertebral stabilization, the implant comprising a radiolucent polymer substrate coupled to a radiopaque and osseoconductive bone securing component which provides the implant with secure fixation between adjacent vertebrae. The implant's radiolucent, radiopaque and osseointegrative properties facilitate radiographic assessment of fusion across the disc space, assessment of osseointegration between vertebral endplates and osseointegration of the spinal implant to adjacent vertebral end plates. The implant comprises an implant substrate and a securing component coupled to the implant substrate. The implant preferably comprises a radiolucent polyetheretherketone (PEEK) substrate coupled to a radiopaque Titanium (Ti) or a titanium (Ti) alloy securing component, whereby the securing component is adjacent to the vertebral endplates when the implant is inserted in the disc space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: Hai H. Trieu
  • Patent number: 8425559
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: VertiFlex, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn Tebbe, Moti Altarac, Daniel H. Kim
  • Patent number: 8425612
    Abstract: A minimally invasive interbody device assembly that includes an interbody device that restores the disc space height between two vertebrae and an instrument detachably coupled to the interbody device for positioning the device in the disc space and delivering bone material to the disc space that is distributed on both sides of the interbody device. The device is inserted into the disc space using the instrument in a direction so that the wide dimension of the device is substantially parallel to the body of the vertebrae. The device is then rotated by the instrument so that the wide dimension of the device becomes perpendicular to the vertebral body so as to cause the disc space height to be restored. Bone graft material is then forced down the instrument so that the bone graft material is distributed on both sides of the device. The instrument is then detached from the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Thompson MIS, LLC
    Inventors: Miguelangelo J. Perez-Cruet, John R. Pepper
  • Patent number: 8425560
    Abstract: There is provided a spinal implant device for placement between adjacent spinous processes. The spinal implant device includes first and second fixation plates, a connector, and first and second lag screws. The first fixation plate includes a first and second screw holes. The second fixation plate includes third and fourth screw holes. The first lag screw extends through the first and third screw holes and threadedly engages a respective one of the first or third screw holes with the superior spinous process disposed between the first and second superior ends. The second lag screw extends through the second and fourth screw holes and threadedly engages a respective one of the second or fourth screw holes with the inferior spinous process disposed between the first and second inferior ends. A method of implanting the device is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Farzad Massoudi
  • Patent number: 8425561
    Abstract: An interspinous process brace is disclosed and can include a superior component and an inferior component. The superior component can include a superior spinous process bracket that can engage a superior spinous process. The inferior component can include an inferior spinous process bracket that can engage an inferior spinous process. Further, the interspinous process brace can be moved between a bent configuration and a straight configuration. In the bent configuration, an overall height of the interspinous process brace can be minimized to facilitate installation between the superior spinous process and the inferior spinous process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy K. Lim, Thomas A. Carls, Aurelien Bruneau, Eric C. Lange, Kent M. Anderson, Hai H. Trieu
  • Patent number: 8425603
    Abstract: A flexible keel is provided for use as a bone anchoring element for use with a range of orthopedic implants having portions configured for anchoring into boney tissue. The flexible keel includes two wings terminating proximally in a pair of outward flares, the wings further spaced from a bone contacting implant surface by a void. The flexibility of the keel wings increases the ease of revision or explantation procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Synthes USA, LLC
    Inventors: Marc Reichen, Kurt Schmura
  • Publication number: 20130090689
    Abstract: A spinal fixation device includes a pair of substantially s-shaped plates, each plate having an outer surface and a bone contact surface and at least one aperture therethrough. A bolt joins the plates at a desired orientation, through the aperture. The bolt includes a head with a rounded or beveled base for facilitating fixation of the plates with a spinous processes while the plates are tilted or rotated with respect to one another and the spinal column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Alan Villavicencio
  • Patent number: 8414615
    Abstract: A spinal dynamic stabilization device is provided, including at least a main portion, at least a supporting structure, and a sliding bar. The main portion includes a guiding groove. The supporting structure includes two wing portions. The wing portions pivot on the main portion. The sliding bar connects to the supporting structure and moves in the guiding groove. When the sliding bar moves in the guiding groove, the wing portions expand rotatably toward the adjacent vertebrae of the spine of the patient by the sliding bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Yu Shih Weng, Ting-Hui Chiu
  • Patent number: 8409282
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: VertiFlex, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel H. Kim
  • Patent number: 8403959
    Abstract: Disclosed is an implant for treating lumbar spinal canal stenosis, comprising a spacer that is proved with an elongate interior space into which an insert part can be inserted. A first retaining element is fixed in the spacer in the inserted state. Said first retaining part can be folded apart by inserting the insert part while a second rear retaining element that is molded onto the insert part simultaneously comes to rest on the vertebral processes, thus making it possible to insert the implant unilaterally while reducing the risk of having to undergo possible postoperative interventions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Med-Titan Spine GmbH
    Inventor: Horst Döllinger
  • Patent number: 8403960
    Abstract: The invention concerns a distance-keeping inter-process implant with a body ending in its posterior part with two opposite-situated resistance protrusions. In the anterior part of the body there are situated at least two wings, at least one of which is a mobile wing connected with the body by an articulated joint. Each wing is provided with at least one guide of the tensioning band. The articulated joint between the mobile wing and the body is formed by the mutually collaborating shaped surface of the. wing (and the shaped surface of the body and is usefully secured by the pin that constitutes the axis of rotation of the mobile wing. In an alternative version of the implementation of the implant, the mobile wing connected with the body is provided with at least one arm situated with respect to the wing at the angle ? amounting to from 30° to 150°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Lechoslaw Franciszek Ciupik, Robert Gunzburg, Jerzy Pieniazek, Marek Szpalski, Daniel Zarzycki