Patents by Inventor James F. Zucherman

James F. Zucherman 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).

  • Laterally insertable interspinous process implant
    Patent number: 7955356
    Abstract: A laterally insertable spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy and other spinal ailments by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a deployable second arm that converts between a first position for insertion and a second position for retention of the implant between adjacent spinous processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce
  • LOAD-SHARING BONE ANCHOR HAVING A FLEXIBLE POST AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE
    Publication number: 20110118783
    Abstract: A dynamic stabilization system including a flexible bone anchor and methods for assembling a dynamic stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The flexible bone anchor includes a flexible post mounted within a bone anchor. Deflection of the flexible post is controlled by a flexible section integrated into the flexible post. A housing encloses the flexible post isolating it from the bone and providing a stable connection point for other elements of the implant. An internal surface within the housing is positioned to limit deflection of the flexible post. The force/deflection properties of the flexible bone anchor are adapted to be configured and/or customized to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient by changing the properties of the flexible section and housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: Spartek Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Winslow, Steven T. Mitchell, John J. Flynn, James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, H. Adam R. Klyce
  • Shaped horizontal rod for dynamic stabilization and motion preservation spinal implantation system and method
    Patent number: 7942900
    Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Spartek Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Winslow, James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, Matthew Hannibal, H. Adam Klyce, Jay A. Markwart
  • INTERSPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT HAVING DEPLOYABLE WINGS AND METHOD OF IMPLANTATION
    Publication number: 20110112577
    Abstract: An embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention can include an implant having a spacer with a thickness and a wing, wherein a first configuration of the wing has a first height substantially similar to the thickness and wherein the wing is adapted to be selectably arranged in a second configuration such that the wing has a second height greater than the first height. A periphery of the implant has a shape generally conformal with a shape of an inner surface of a cannula and a cross-sectional diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the cannula. The cannula is inserted such that a proximal end of the cannula is arranged between the adjacent spinous processes. The implant is then urged into position between the adjacent spinous processes by way of the cannula, and subsequently arranged in a second configuration to fix the implant in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: KYPHON SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, Charles J. Winslow, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn, Steven T. Mitchell, John A. Markwart
  • Interspinous process implant having deployable wing and method of implantation
    Patent number: 7931674
    Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes extending from vertebrae of a targeted motion segment. The implant can be positioned between the adjacent spinous processes and once positioned, the distraction guide can be arranged in a second configuration. When arranged in a second configuration, the distraction guide can act as a second wing. The first wing and the second wing can limit or block movement of the implant along a longitudinal axis of the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow, John J. Flynn, Steve Mitchell, Scott A. Yerby, John A. Markwart
  • Lateral insertion method for spinous process spacer with deployable member
    Patent number: 7918877
    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 deployable second arm that converts between a first position for insertion and a second position for retention of the implant between adjacent spinous processes. A tool can be used to insert the spine distraction implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce
  • Interspinous process implant including a binder and method of implantation
    Patent number: 7909853
    Abstract: Systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can include an implant comprising a spacer for defining a minimum space between adjacent spinous processes, a distraction guide for piercing and distracting an interspinous ligament during implantation, and a binder for limiting or preventing flexion motion of the targeted motion segment. The binder can be secured to a brace associated with the implant during implantation by a capture device. In one embodiment, the capture device includes a fixed piece extending from the brace and a slidable piece associated with the fixed piece. A fastener can be rotated to pinch the binder between the slidable piece and a wall of the brace, securing the binder. A physician need not know the length of the binder prior to implantation, reducing the time required to perform a procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, Charles J. Winslow, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn, Steven T. Mitchell, John A. Markwart
  • Method for lateral implantation of spinous process spacer
    Patent number: 7901432
    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 in an embodiment comprises a device positioned between spinous processes which provides a spinal extension stop and a spinal column flexion non-inhibitor thereby allowing freedom of spinal flexion. In an embodiment a distraction wedge can be used to distract the spinous processes. Methods for the preparation and implantation of a spine distraction device involve in an embodiment of the invention accessing the spinous processes, distracting and implanting the spinal distraction device between the spinous processes using a lateral insertion approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce
  • Intervertebral body fusion cage with keels and implantation methods
    Publication number: 20110022176
    Abstract: An intervertebral implant has a fusion body with at least one keel that anchors the implant into cancellous bone of at least one vertebral body. A method for implantation includes lateral implantation of the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, Charles J. Winslow, Scott Yerby, Steve Mitchell, John Flynn
  • System and method for strengthening a spinous process
    Patent number: 7862569
    Abstract: Systems, procedures and tools for repairing, or reinforcing the spinous process. The systems and procedures provide for injecting bone cement into and optionally around the spinous process. Additional reinforcing elements may be embedded in the bone cement inside or outside the spinous process. The procedures include positioning of the guide and reinforcing elements relative to a spinous process, preparation of the spinous process for injection and injection of bone cement into the spinous process. Tools are provided to facilitate the accurate injection of bone cement. The systems and procedures increase the strength of the spinous process and enhance the applicability and outcome of spinal interventions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Steven T. Mitchell, Scott A. Yerby
  • System and method for strengthening a spinous process
    Patent number: 7857815
    Abstract: A system and method for repairing or reinforcing the spinous process. The system and method provide a procedure and surgical tools for injecting a flowable bone repair material into and optionally around the spinous process. The system and method include location of the guide over the spinous process, preparation of the spinous process for injection and injection of a flowable material into the spinous process. The system and method reinforce the spinous process, increasing the strength of the spinous process and enhancing the applicability and outcome of other surgical spinal interventions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Kyphon SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Steven T. Mitchell
  • INTERSPINOUS PROCESS APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH A SELECTABLY EXPANDABLE SPACER
    Publication number: 20100305611
    Abstract: The present invention is an interspinous process implant with a selectably expandable spacer that can be placed between adjacent spinous processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: KYPHON SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow
  • Intervertebral body fusion cage with keels and implantation methods
    Patent number: 7837732
    Abstract: An intervertebral implant has a fusion body with at least one keel that anchors the implant into cancellous bone of at least one vertebral body. A method for implantation includes lateral implantation of the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce, Charles J. Winslow, Scott Yerby, Steve Mitchell, John Flynn
  • System and method for replacing degenerated spinal disks
    Patent number: 7837734
    Abstract: A system and method for replacing degenerated spinal disks in accordance with the present invention can substitute for interbody fusion techniques by replacing degenerated spinal disks with artificial spinal disks. In one embodiment, the system can comprise one or more artificial spinal disks, each comprising an upper and lower housing, a first spacer and a second spacer partially enclosed by a cavity formed by the housings, and a shaft with a spring positioned between the first spacer and the second spacer such that the spacers are urged apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn, Steven T. Mitchell, John A. Markwart
  • Spinous process implant
    Patent number: 7828822
    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. In an embodiment of the invention, the implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion. In an embodiment of the invention, the extension stop consists of conically shaped members that snap or are otherwise fastened together. In an embodiment of the invention, the cones are made of a flexible material and the surfaces are flattened to carry and spread the load applied to the spinal processes. In an embodiment of the invention, the extension stop pieces are inserted after the spinous processes are spread apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Kyphon SÀRL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Henry A. Klyce
  • SPINE DISTRACTION IMPLANT
    Publication number: 20100262243
    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. An interspinous process implant with a selectably expandable spacer can be placed between adjacent spinous processes. a device implanted between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae of the spine can be used for relieving pain associated with the vertebrae and surrounding tissues and structures by maintaining and/or adding distraction between adjacent vertebrae. A tissue expander can be adapted to move from a first insertion position, for ease of implantation between spinous processes, to a second retention position that prevents displacement of the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: KYPHON SARL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow, Henry A. Klyce, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn, Steven T. Mitchell, John A. Markwart
  • Interspinous process apparatus and method with a selectably expandable spacer
    Patent number: 7803190
    Abstract: The present invention is an interspinous process implant with a selectably expandable spacer that can be placed between adjacent spinous processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Kyphon SÀRL
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow
  • Inter-cervical facet implant and method
    Patent number: 7776090
    Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. The implant can be inserted laterally or posteriorly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Winslow, James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Steven T. Mitchell, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn
  • SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INJECTING BONE FILLER INTO THE SPINE
    Publication number: 20100191297
    Abstract: A method for strengthening a spinous process comprises positioning a framework over an outer surface of the spinous process, the framework comprising a mesh connected to a frame. Bone filler is distributed over the mesh so that the bone filler contacts the mesh and contacts the spinous process. The bone filler is allowed to cure. A jig is positioned at the spinous process so that a slot through the jig is exposed to a side of the spinous process. A cannula is oriented so that the cannula is receivable in the slot, and insertable into the spinous process through the slot. Bone filler is injected into the spinous process by way of the cannula, with the injection terminating when a desired amount of bone filler has been injected into the spinous process. The cannula is then removed and the bone filler allowed to cure within the vertebra. The above steps can also be accomplished simultaneously or in any order.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: SPARTEK MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu
  • Inter-cervical facet implant with locking screw and method
    Patent number: 7763050
    Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. The implant can be inserted laterally or posteriorly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Winslow, James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Steven T. Mitchell, Scott A. Yerby, John J. Flynn