Patents by Inventor John M. Zinkel

John M. Zinkel 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).

  • Method for spinal surgery
    Patent number: 7210485
    Abstract: Spinal surgery is carried out under direct visualization through a relatively small opening formed in a patient's skin. Intervening tissue between the opening and the surgical site is displaced so as to form a keyhole channel therethrough. The channel is characterized in that it increases in width as it progresses from the opening to the surgical field. The use of the keyhole channel maximizes the surgeon's access to the surgical field while minimizing tissue trauma. Also disclosed are surgical retractors used to provide the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: C & J Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: John M. Zinkel
  • Method for spinal surgery
    Publication number: 20040215199
    Abstract: Spinal surgery is carried out under direct visualization through a relatively small opening formed in a patient's skin. Intervening tissue between the opening and the surgical site is displaced so as to form a keyhole channel therethrough. The channel is characterized in that it increases in width as it progresses from the opening to the surgical field. The use of the keyhole channel maximizes the surgeon's access to the surgical field while minimizing tissue trauma. Also disclosed are surgical retractors used to provide the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: John M. Zinkel