Patents by Inventor David Thompkins

David Thompkins has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • SPACERLESS ARTIFICIAL DISC REPLACEMENTS
    Publication number: 20100241233
    Abstract: Spacerless artificial disc replacements (ADR) are disclosed. One preferred embodiment includes two saddle-shaped components to facilitate more normal spinal flexion, extension, and lateral bending while limit axial rotation, thereby protecting the facet joints and the annulus fibrosus (AF). Either or both of the superior and inferior components are made of a hard material such as chrome cobalt, titanium, or a ceramic including alumina, zirconia, or calcium phosphate. The articulating surfaces of the ADR are also preferably highly polished to reduce friction between the components. Metals, alloys or other materials with shape-memory characteristics may also prove beneficial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: SPINECORE, INC.
    Inventors: Bret A. Ferree, David Thompkins
  • Spacerless artificial disc replacements
    Publication number: 20080027548
    Abstract: Spacerless artificial disc replacements (ADRs) are disclosed. One preferred embodiment includes two saddle-shaped components to facilitate more normal spinal flexion, extension, and lateral bending while limit axial rotation, thereby protecting the facet joints and the annulus fibrosus (AF). Either or both the superior and inferior components are made of a hard material such as chrome cobalt, titanium, or a ceramic including alumina, zirconia, or calcium phosphate. The articulating surfaces of the ADR are also preferably highly polished to reduce friction between the components. Metals, alloys or other materials with shape-memory characteristics may also prove beneficial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Bret Ferree, David Thompkins
  • Spacerless artificial disc replacements
    Publication number: 20040024462
    Abstract: Spacerless artificial disc replacements (ADRs) are disclosed. One preferred embodiment includes two saddle-shaped components to facilitate more normal spinal flexion, extension, and lateral bending while limit axial rotation, thereby protecting the facet joints and the annulus fibrosus (AF). Either or both the superior and inferior components are made of a hard material such as chrome cobalt, titanium, or a ceramic including alumina, zirconia, or calcium phosphate. The articulating surfaces of the ADR are also preferably highly polished to reduce friction between the components. Metals, alloys or other materials with shape-memory characteristics may also prove beneficial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Bret A. Ferree, David Thompkins