Patents Assigned to Blackstone Medical, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20150134004
    Abstract: A spinal fixation system comprising at least one fastener having a fastener head at a proximal end and at least one body. The body comprises a rod receiving channel for receiving a fixation rod, a pressure cap for engaging the fastener head, and a fastener head receiving chamber for retaining the fastener head within the body. The fastener head receiving chamber allows for multi-axial movement of the body in relation to the fastener when the pressure cap is disengaged from the fastener head. The body is secured in a mono-axial position in relation to the fastener when the pressure cap is biased against the fastener head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Tara Ziolo, Michael A. Hammer, John Lovell, Francesco A. Larosa, Nelson Li
  • Publication number: 20150134006
    Abstract: A spinal fixation system comprising at least one fastener having a fastener head at a proximal end and at least one body. The body comprises a rod receiving channel for receiving a fixation rod, a pressure cap for engaging the fastener head, and a fastener head receiving chamber for retaining the fastener head within the body. The fastener head receiving chamber allows for multi-axial movement of the body in relation to the fastener when the pressure cap is disengaged from the fastener head. The body is secured in a mono-axial position in relation to the fastener when the pressure cap is biased against the fastener head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Tara Ziolo, Michael A. Hammer, John Lovell, Francesco A. Larosa, Nelson Li
  • Publication number: 20150119991
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis for partially or totally replacing an organic intervertebral disc. The disc prosthesis includes an interbody device, a face plate and a pair of locking mechanisms for achieving dual fixation in the cephalad and caudal direction. Methods according to the present disclosure achieve such dual fixation in a single fixation step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Greenberg, James Klein
  • Publication number: 20150112390
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates, in some embodiments, to spinal fixation systems that may comprise a bone screw, a body, and a pressure cap. A bone screw may comprise a head at a proximal end, a bone connection element at a distal end, and an external protrusion on a head of a bone screw. A body may comprise a proximal end, a distal end, a mounting rod receiving channel at a proximal end, and a bone screw head receiving channel at a distal end. A portion of the mounting rod receiving channel may be operable to receive a compression element. A pressure cap may comprise a proximal end, distal end, and an internal recess on a distal end. An internal recess may be configured to mate with an external protrusion of a bone screw so as to limit the movement of a bone screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Samuel Fang
  • Patent number: 8998963
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates, in some embodiments, to locking mechanisms for a fastener (e.g., a bone screw) and associated devices, systems, and methods. According to some embodiments, a lockable bone plate assembly may comprise, for example, a bone plate and a bone screw assembly. A bone plate may comprise, in some embodiments, at least one through hole, the at least one through hole having at least one bone plate hole circumferential recess. According to some embodiments, a bone screw assembly may comprise (a) a bone screw, (b) at least one deployable protrusion, and/or (c) a protrusion driver. The present disclosure further relates, in some embodiments, to methods for bone (e.g., vertebral) fixation. For example, a method may comprise contacting at least a portion of a spine (e.g., cervical spine) of a subject with a lockable bone plate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Tara Ziolo, Stephen Termyna, John Lovell
  • Publication number: 20150088202
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to a spinal fixation system comprising a bone screw, a body, and a pressure cap. The bone screw may comprise a head at a proximal end and a bone connection element at a distal end. The body may comprise a proximal end, a distal end, a mounting rod receiving channel at the proximal end and a bone screw head receiving channel at the distal end. A proximal end of the pressure cap may comprise two side walls disposed apart from each other and one biasing member on each side wall. A distal end of the pressure cap may comprise a surface operable to contact at least a portion of the head of the bone screw. The pressure cap may be operable to exert pressure on the bone screw when a mounting rod is biased against the proximal end of the pressure cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Jose Luis Charvet
  • Patent number: 8979899
    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: March 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Lechoslaw Franciszek Ciupik, Robert Gunzburg, Jerzy Pieniazek, Marek Szpalski, Daniel Zarzycki
  • Publication number: 20150052729
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to orthopedic implantable device technology, and more specifically to implantable devices for use in stabilizing the occipitocervical junction and the cervical spine. For example, the disclosure relates to embodiments of an implantable orthopedic assembly generally comprising an occipital plate and one or more repositionable clamping assemblies for securing a stabilizing rod at a nonzero distance from a plate surface. One or more rails may extend laterally from a plate to support a clamping assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Hammer, Tara Ziolo, Stephen Termyna
  • Patent number: 8951290
    Abstract: A system and method for a multi-axial connection of an apparatus to bone. The system may include a fastener inserted into a body and a head of the fastener held within a chamber of the body through a combination of a retention ring, a pressure cap, a rod, and a compression element. The compression element applies force to the rod which, in turn, pushed on the pressure cap. The force on the pressure cap urges it against the head of the fastener and pushed it against the retention ring. The force on the retention ring causes it to expand to the walls of the chamber. Once the ring can no longer expand within the chamber, the head of the fastener is wedged between the retention ring and the pressure cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Hammer, Stephen Termyna
  • Patent number: 8945186
    Abstract: A cross connecting device suitable for connecting first and second spinal fixation devices comprises a fixable pivot junction, first and second connection members, and first and second clamps. The fixable pivot junction includes a pivotable joint that is pivotable about a pivot point. The fixable pivot junction also includes a collar configured for fixating the pivot junction. The first and second connection members are connected by the fixable pivot junction such that the fixable pivot junction allows the first and second connection members to be repositioned relative to each other. The first and second clamps are connected to respective ones of the first and second connection members at distal ends of the connection members relative to the fixable pivot junction. The first and second clamps allow the cross connecting device to be clamped on to spinal fixation devices, such as pedicle screws or hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Clint Walker, Stephen Termyna, John Lovell
  • Patent number: 8936605
    Abstract: A head holder for holding and tensioning the head of a bone screw, particularly a pedicle screw, is provided. Also provided is a ratcheting connector for connecting to the head holders while permitting rotational movement of the head holder when engaged with the ratcheting connector. Also provided is a flex arm connector for connecting multiple ratcheting connectors across multiple vertebral bodies. A tool set for managing and/or correcting spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, including at least one or more head holders and one or more ratcheting connectors is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Greenberg
  • Patent number: 8876872
    Abstract: An implantable orthopedic assembly comprises an occipital plate and one or more repositionable clamping assemblies for securing a stabilizing rod to the plate. When unlocked, the clamping assembly may be laterally and rotationally repositioned along a supporting rail. Locking occurs when a stabilizing rod is secured in the clamping assembly. The rod exerts a force upon a locking component, causing the locking component to exert a force upon the supporting rail. This force pulls a surface of the clamping assembly base into contact with the rail, effectively locking the clamping assembly base at a fixed position. The clamping assembly may further comprise a loading component to exert a stabilizing force on the locking component, keeping the clamping assembly positionally stable while adjustments are made prior to locking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Tara Ziolo, Stephen Termyna
  • Patent number: 8870922
    Abstract: A clamp for attaching a cross connecting device to a spinal fixation system comprising an outer body and an inner body. The outer body defines an internally threaded bore and an outer body cavity, and the inner body defines an inner body cavity. The inner body is at least partially disposed within the outer body. A pin is provided for connecting the inner and outer bodies to each other, while allowing for a limited amount of movement therebetween. A set screw suitable for being driven into the internally threaded bore is provided for securing the inner body to the spinal fixation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Blackstone Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Hammer
  • Publication number: 20140303678
    Abstract: An anti-splay apparatus having a bridge and frangible connection points for use with mechanical fasteners having a shank portion and a receiving member with opposing arms is provided. The bridge may take a number of forms including a ring, a notched ring, a tube, or a notched tube and the connection points join the opposing arms of the receiving member with the bridge. Also provided is the anti-splay apparatus also having tabs connected between frangible connection points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Mark E. Semler, Bruce Frankel
  • Publication number: 20140277187
    Abstract: A pedicle screw with reverse spiral cut that allows for increased loading on a bone and increased osteointegration through automatic and self-managed expansion after the bone screw is inserted into the bone. The bone screw may be a fixation device comprising an elongated body having proximal and distal ends, said elongated body including an outer surface adapted to penetrate and anchor within a bone, and a head affixed to the distal end of the elongated body and adapted to receive a drive component, wherein the outer surface of the elongated body comprises threads extending from the outer surface in a first direction, and further wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the elongated body comprises a reverse spiral cut into the outer surface in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Samuel Fang, Francesco Larosa
  • Publication number: 20140277146
    Abstract: A spinal rod connector apparatus for use with spinal implantation rods and methods of securing implantation rods using a cross-braced bilateral spinal rod connector apparatus. The spinal rod connector apparatus comprises a central member having two or more extension legs. The extension legs can be of varying lengths and disposed at varying angles with respect to the monolithic central member, depending upon physiological sizing requirements. Attached to each extension leg is a connecting member capable of connecting to a bilateral spinal rod construct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Nelson Li, Francesco Larosa
  • Publication number: 20140277152
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a hook with rotating saddle and a rotatable mono axial pedicle screw. In an embodiment, the disclosed hook may include at least one body comprising a hook member and a saddle member. The hook member and saddle member may be rotatably mounted to one another so as to rotate with respect to each other only about a common axis, and the saddle member may be configured for connection to an end of a connecting member. A surgical screw system may include receiver and screw members engagable with one another such that when engaged, only rotation of the receiving member about the longitudinal axis of the screw member and restrain against substantially all other translational or rotational movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Hammer, Tara Ziolo
  • Publication number: 20140277160
    Abstract: Example embodiments relate to systems and apparatuses for securing surgically implantable implantation rods, comprising a first body having a recessed portion formed by a first surface of the first body, a second body having a recessed portion formed by a first surface of the second body, and a connecting member having an elongated body defining a common longitudinal axis for the first body and the second body, the connecting member receivable in the recessed portion of the first body and the recessed portion of the second body. The connecting member is operable to cooperate with the first body to restrict movement of the first body relative to the second body about the common longitudinal axis when engaged in a substantially locked position, and the first body is moveable relative to the second body when disengaged from the substantially locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Tara Ziolo
  • Publication number: 20140277156
    Abstract: Example embodiments relate generally to an apparatus operable to couple a pair of implantation rods that are surgically implanted adjacent to a plurality of vertebrae. Each implantation rod is secured by at least one fastener element having a head. The apparatus comprises at least one main assembly, said main assembly operable to move relative to a head of one of the fastener elements when not in a locked position. The apparatus also comprises a center link extending in an axial direction, said center link operable to move relative to the main assembly when not in a locked position. The main assembly is operable to receive the center link and a head of one of the fastener elements and secure the center link and the head relative to the main assembly when in a locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Michael Hammer
  • Publication number: 20140277491
    Abstract: A composite interbody device for use with spinal fusion surgery is described herein. The composite interbody device comprises a central body made from a radiolucent biocompatible polymer (e.g., PEEK or UHMWPE) and metallic plates, which are placed at the superior and inferior surfaces of the central body. The metallic plates are comprised of an end plate that is adjacent to a vertebral body and an intermediate plate that is adjacent to the central body. The end plates may have one or more arrays of apertures to facilitate bone growth into the end plates to secure the interbody device within the intervertebral space. The intermediate plates may also have one or more arrays of apertures to allow the central body to bond to the end plates through compression molding, injection molding, and/or heat molding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BLACKSTONE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Samuel Fang, Francesco Larosa, James Klein