Multi-element Or Coated Plate Patents (Class 606/70)
  • Patent number: 8062367
    Abstract: This invention relates to a bony fixation system and method for use as a prosthetic implant. The system and method includes a plate dimensioned to be situated between adjacent bony structures, such as adjacent vertebrae. Screws are provided in one embodiment and are dimensioned or configured to be inserted into a bony structure and to lock against each other to retain the screws and consequently secure the plate in place against the bony structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: X-spine Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David Louis Kirschman
  • Publication number: 20110282395
    Abstract: A composite bone implant. In some embodiments, one or more features are provided, such as markers for passageways, axial engagement of bone screws, sliding support of bone screws and/or a cannulated channel for a guide wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: Carbofix Orthopedics Ltd.
    Inventors: Mordechay Beyar, Oren Globerman, Elad Einav, Hila Wachsler-Avrahami
  • Patent number: 8048077
    Abstract: In a sternum closure device for securing two sternum parts to be connected to one another, comprising an inner contact element to abut the inner face of the sternum, at least one clamping element secured thereto and projecting transversely therefrom, and comprising an outer contact element for abutment on the outer side of the sternum and which can be clamped by means of the clamping element guided through the intermediate space between the sternum parts against the inner contact element, in order to reduce the obstruction by the sternum closure device in the event of a renewed separation of the sternum parts, it is proposed that the inner contact element consists at least partially of a biocompatible plastics material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Pedro Morales, Dieter Weisshaupt, Theodor Lutze, Manfred Dworschak, Leon Eijsman
  • Patent number: 8048075
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to (1) a plating system having multiple and single locking mechanisms for general skeletal use other than in the anterior cervical spine; (2) an orthopedic plating system that permits a pair of bone screws to be inserted into a bone in a crossed over orientation and locked to the plate; (3) a segmentable plating system which can be made to a selected length by the surgeon; and (4) a combination screw-lock-plating system for allowing and/or causing intersegmental compression of bone portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary K. Michelson
  • Publication number: 20110245819
    Abstract: A bone fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system may include a plate, one or more fasteners configured to attach the plate to a target anatomical location such as bone, and a surgical device that facilitates the attachment of the plate and the fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Reto Nardini, Robert Frigg
  • Publication number: 20110238068
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for shortening an elongated bone, in particular an ulna, comprising a bone plate (5) to be attached to the bone with a hole (6) for a fastening element for fixing the bone plate (5) on the bone and a slot offset longitudinally thereto for a holding element (9) that can be fastened in the bone, so that after the bone has been severed and a piece of bone has been removed in the region between the hole (6) and the slot, bone parts can be guided together by the displacement of the bone plate relative to the holding element (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: I.T.S GMBH
    Inventor: Rene Bernsteiner
  • Publication number: 20110224671
    Abstract: A bone plate comprises a first surface and a second surface in combination with a first hole extending through the bone plate from the first surface to the second surface, the hole including a compression portion and a variable angle portion open to one another by a connecting space. The compression portion includes a sloping surface adapted to engage a head of a bone fixation element inserted thereinto so that the bone fixation element imparts a force to the bone plate to move the bone plate laterally relative to a portion of bone into which the bone fixation element is inserted. The variable angle portion includes a plurality of columns positioned about a circumference of a wall of the variable angle portion. The columns are separated from one another by a plurality of positioned between adjacent pairs of columns and including a plurality of protrusions extending radially inward therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Kenny KOAY, Rene HAAG
  • Patent number: 8012179
    Abstract: Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchor assemblies engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connecting element engageable to the first and second anchor assemblies. The connecting element includes opposite first and second anchor engaging end portions and a length along a longitudinal axis between the first and second anchor engaging end portions sized for positioning between and engaging each of the first and second anchor assemblies when the first and second anchor assemblies are engaged to the respective vertebrae. The connecting element further includes a support portion between the first and second anchor engaging end portions. The support portion includes first and second support members spaced from one another on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis, and a stabilizing member extending between the support members in a transverse orientation to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Aurelien Bruneau, Thomas Carls, Eric C. Lange, John D. Pond, Jr., Kent Anderson, Henry Bonin
  • Patent number: 8007498
    Abstract: A method and devices for facilitating fixating and joining of bone fractures utilizing expandable devices that are positioned within the bone and across the fracture site. The stress from the expanded may enhance and expedite bone healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Hans A. Mische
  • Publication number: 20110208190
    Abstract: A bone fixation device made of polysaccharide particles or microspheres fused into a solid structure is provided herein. The bone fixation device may be in the form of an orthopedic screw, orthopedic pin, or orthopedic plate. Methods of making the bone fixation devices described herein are provided as are methods of treating patients in need of bone repair or replacement by implanting a bone fixation device described herein in the patient at a site of bone damage, ligament damage, or bone deformity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT
    Inventors: Sangamesh G. Kumbar, Cato T. Laurencin
  • Publication number: 20110202092
    Abstract: A device for stabilizing portions of bone, comprises a plate to be coupled to a target portion of bone including a first hole extending therethrough from a proximal surface to a distal, bone-facing, surface thereof and a first rigid member received within the first hole, the rigid member sized relative to the first hole to be rotatable therewithin about an axis substantially perpendicular to a proximal-distal axis of the first hole, the first rigid member including a first bore extending therethrough from a proximal opening to a distal opening, the first bore being sized and shaped to receive a first bone fixation element to be inserted through the plate into the target portion of bone in combination with a first deformable member coupling the first rigid member to the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicants: Synthes USA, LLC, Synthes GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Frigg, Urs Hulliger
  • Publication number: 20110190770
    Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides an orthopedic plating assembly for bone fixation that includes an orthopedic plate and orthopedic anchors that can accommodate subsidence in the vertebral bodies as well as prevent the anchors from “backing out” of their installed position. The assembly, in one embodiment, includes an orthopedic plate and at least one orthopedic anchor, the orthopedic anchor capable of rotating and translating with respect to the plate. The assembly further includes a first blocking member and a second blocking member, the blocking members cooperate to prevent the at least one orthopedic anchor from uninstalling from an installed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Sean Suh
  • Publication number: 20110184415
    Abstract: A bone stabilization system is provided having a plate with a top and bottom surface and a hole therethrough extending along a longitudinal axis. An annular groove in the top surface encircles the axis and defines outer facing sides of a plurality of spring members integral to the plate. A plurality of slots define sides of the spring members the inward facing side of the spring members form the upper portion of the hole, which includes a first spherical portion. A fastener with a spherical portion on the fastener head extends into the hole with the spring members urged apart to allow the head to pass but restraining removal until the resistance provide by the spring members is overcome.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: WestMark Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Anderson, Paul A. Munoz, Janette L. Munoz
  • Publication number: 20110184468
    Abstract: A spinal implant clamps to the spinous processes and provides an osteointegration material between the spinous processes so that there may be osteointegration between the spinous processes and a portion of the implant located in the interspinous space. The implant includes first and second plates, a post that extends between the plates and into at least one of the plates, a locking mechanism for locking the relative positions of the plates, and an osteointegration sleeve. The sleeve is disposed between the first and second plates and has an inner surface defining a longitudinal through-passage that is disposed about an outer surface of the post. The sleeve includes osteointegration material and is distinct from the post. The osteointegration material of the sleeve may be, for example, allograft bone or a bone growth material such as bone morphogenetic protein. Related methods are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc., an Indiana Corporation
    Inventors: Newton H. Metcalf, JR., Gregory C. Marik, Nicholas M. Benson
  • Publication number: 20110184413
    Abstract: A fusion plate for arthrodesis, the plate comprising: a plate body including a first portion disposed in a first plane and having a first bone engaging surface and a second opposing surface, a second portion disposed in a second plane and having a first bone engaging surface and a second opposing surface, a third portion disposed in a third plane and having a first bone engaging surface and a second opposing surface. The first portion includes at least one opening which receives at least one fixation means. The second portion includes at least one opening which receives at least one fixation means and the third portion includes at least one opening which receives at least one fixation screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Gordon Slater
  • Publication number: 20110184414
    Abstract: A bone fixation plate, comprises an elongated body contoured to conform to the anatomy of a clavicle, the elongated body comprising a head at a first end and a shaft extending therefrom to a second end, the second end further comprising a reduced diameter tapered tip configured to permit insertion of the elongate body through a minimally invasive incision formed adjacent the clavicle. The bone fixation plate also comprises a first plate hole extending through the shaft from a proximal face to a distal face, the first plate hole formed as a combination hole and a second plate hole extending through the head from the proximal face to the distal face, the second plate hole being threaded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Jonas Andermahr, Flora Mauch, Claudia Reichle, Philipp Brun
  • Publication number: 20110172667
    Abstract: A bone fixation device (1) comprising: A) a first bone implant (2) with at least one through hole (11) having an upper opening (3) with the area A and a lower opening (4) in the case of a bone plate (10) as the first bone implant (2); or an outer opening with the area A and an inner opening in the case of a hollow intramedullary nail as the first bone implant (2); B) at least one second bone implant (5) with a head (6) and a shaft for insertion into one or more of said through holes (11); and C) at least one closing cover (7) for closing said upper opening (3) or outer opening of said through hole (11) for preventing bone and soft tissue ingrowth and/or bacterial invasion into said through hole (11) and into said second bone implant (5) wherein said closing cover (7) is D) removably attachable to said first bone implant (2); and E) dimensioned and shaped in such a way that upon attachment to said first bone implant (2) it is apt to cover at least the entire area A of said upper opening (3) or outer opening an
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: AO Tecnology AG
    Inventors: Robert Geoffrey Richards, Christoph Martin Noetzli
  • Publication number: 20110166571
    Abstract: A fixation plate includes a set of threaded peg holes adapted to individually receive fixation pegs therethrough and non-threaded alignment holes having a relatively smaller diameter than the peg holes and preferably sized to closely receive a K-wire. The alignment holes are located between the peg holes. One peg hole is configured for aligning the plate during an osteotomy procedure, while other peg holes are configured for use after fracture reduction and receive K-wires to temporarily secure the plate to the bone and determine whether pegs inserted through adjacent respective peg holes will be properly located before drilling relatively larger holes for such pegs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Jorge L. Orbay
  • Publication number: 20110166572
    Abstract: A bone fixation apparatus and method includes basal implants dimensioned to be installed in bone through lateral insertion into a T-shaped slot. The implants serve as anchors for mounting plates to be placed on either side of a fracture. The mounting plates or anchors may be a mount to which a stabilizing fixation rod, plate, prosthesis, dental prosthesis or other mesiostructure is attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: BIOMED EST
    Inventor: Stefan Ihde
  • Publication number: 20110160841
    Abstract: A surface treatment method for a medical appliance is provided. The surface treatment method includes providing a metal layer; forming an intermediate layer on a surface of the metal layer, in which a thickness of the intermediate layer is greater than a thickness of a native oxide layer of the metal surface; and grafting a functional polymer on the intermediate layer through an electrodeposition process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: METAL INDUSTRIES RESEARCH&DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
    Inventors: Wei-Ching Wang, Wei-Jen Shih, Jin-Long Jou
  • Publication number: 20110144700
    Abstract: Bone screws and bone plates are provided that offer the surgeon the ability to either assemble the screws to the plate, or the plate to the screws, depending on the surgeon's preference and the patient's circumstances. The bone screws and bone plates of the present invention include a combination of geometric configurations that allow the screws and plates to fit together from different assembly directions. Additionally, the bone screws and bone plates can include material resilience features to allow expansion/contraction during assembly to allow bidirectional attachment to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: DEPUY SPINE, INC.
    Inventors: David D. Konieczynski, Thomas V. Doherty, Alexander Grinberg, Eric D. Kolb
  • Publication number: 20110144646
    Abstract: A bone fixation device (1) for internal fixation of bone fragments with a longitudinal axis (2) and comprising: A) a first and a second plate (3, 4) each having a lower surface (5), an upper surface (6), two lateral surfaces (22, 23), a front surface (7) axially intermediate between said first and second plate (3, 4), an axially terminal surface (8) and at least one screw hole (17) extending from said upper surface (6) to said lower surface (5) and intended to receive a bone screw; B) a first and a second guide rail (13, 14) arranged parallel with respect to said longitudinal axis (2) and uniaxially slideably connecting said first and second plate (3, 4); and C) at least one resilient member (15, 16) arranged between said first and second plate (3, 4) acting as a compression spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: AO TECHNOLOGY AG
    Inventor: Markus Windolf
  • Publication number: 20110137314
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to bone plates that are configured for use with bones having periprosthetic fractures. For example, in the event that a proximal femur is fractured in an area that is adjacent to a prosthetic component, such as a femoral stem used in a hip replacement, the periprosthetic bone plates of the present invention may be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the periprosthetic bone plates include a periprosthetic zone having a plurality of central apertures and a plurality of outer apertures that are offset from the central apertures. The periprosthetic zone may further include a plurality of indentations, each indentation extending longitudinally between adjacent outer apertures to narrow a width of the bone plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: ZIMMER, GMBH
    Inventors: Markus Kuster, Jordan Velikov, Simona Paganetto
  • Patent number: 7955361
    Abstract: A method of percutaneously implanting a first component and a second component of an orthopaedic assembly into a body of a patient includes the steps of securing a first instrument to the first component, and advancing the first component into the body of the patient. The first instrument is advanced into the body of the patient such that a portion of the first instrument extends out of the body. A second instrument is secured to the second component, and the second component is advanced into the body of the patient. The second instrument is advanced into the body of the patient such that a portion of the second instrument extends out of the body. A third instrument is advanced into contact with both the first instrument and the second instrument so as to position the first component and the second component in a predetermined position relative to one another. An instrument assembly for percutaneously implanting an orthopaedic assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Depuy Products, Inc.
    Inventor: David Gregory Kitchens
  • Publication number: 20110118742
    Abstract: A bone plate comprises a locking hole extending through the bone plate from a top surface to a bottom surface thereof. The locking hole is threaded and sized and shaped to lockingly receive a correspondingly threaded head of a bone fixation element therethrough. The bone plate further comprises a first plate relief extending at least partially through a thickness of the plate and separated from the locking hole to define a first weakened portion of the bone plate. The first plate relief extends around a portion of a circumference of the locking hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Urs HULLIGER, Tom Overes
  • Publication number: 20110112536
    Abstract: A bone plate with a new design that prevents the bushing from rotating and/or dislodging from the screw hole during screw insertion. The plate is provided with through-holes having internal walls with at least one flat that is configured to align with a corresponding flat provided on the outer wall of the bushing. The bushing is inserted by orienting the bushing in a direction perpendicular to the through-hole of the plate so that the center of the bushing is aligned with the center of the through-hole and the flat on the bushing is aligned with the flat on the through-hole of the bone plate. The bushing is introduced into the through hole until the centers are aligned, and then the bushing is rotated about 90 degrees so that the bushing is captured within the through-hole of the plate. Once captured, the bushing cannot rotate, dislodge from, or come out of the plate unless the bushing is turned 90 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas Dooney, JR., John A. Sodeika
  • Publication number: 20110106081
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure include a bone plate and/or a bone plate system. The bone plate includes an elongate body, which elongate body includes a top and a bottom surface as well as a distal portion, a proximal portion, and an intercalating portion disposed between the distal and proximal portions. The elongate body also includes a flange member, which flange member is configured for contacting a bone portion, e.g., a fractured bone portion, so as to aid in the stabilization and correct anatomical reduction thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas James Graham, Louise M. Focht
  • Publication number: 20110106086
    Abstract: The invention provides a tool jig (50) for use with a bone plate (10) having one or more fixing element apertures (20), wherein the tool jig (50) guides placement of a drill sleeve (34) to enable the drill sleeve (34) to be attached to a fixing element aperture (20), the tool jig (50) comprising a body (52), a securing means (80) on the body adapted to releasably secure the tool jig (50) to the bone plate (10) such that the tool jig (50) can be firstly secured in position to the bone plate (10) and secondly removed, and one or more tool jig apertures (54) defined in the body (52) wherein an at least one or all tool jig apertures (54) are adapted to be substantially aligned with an at least one or all fixing element apertures (20); wherein, in use, the tool jig aperture (54) guides the drill sleeve (34) so that the longitudinal axis of the drill sleeve (34) substantially aligns with the axis of the fixing element aperture (20) prior to attaching the drill sleeve (34) to the fixing element aperture (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: AUSTOFIX GROUP LIMITED
    Inventor: Ewen Laird
  • Publication number: 20110106082
    Abstract: Vertebral column manipulation systems include spinal derotation instrumentation to affect one or more derotation maneuvers on a scoliotic spine or on a spine having one or more displaced, misaligned or curved vertebral levels. Derotation instrumentation is attached to at least one vertebral body, with the instrumentation including at least two elongated extensions mounted to and extending proximally from the at least one vertebral body. A linking assembly extends between and links proximal ends of the extensions to one another. The linking assembly includes first and second mounting assemblies movably engaged to an elongate link member extending transversely to the extensions. Each of the mounting assemblies includes a movable joint for receiving the proximal end of a respective one of the extensions and a cam assembly for securing the mounting assembly in position relative to the link member and to fix the joint around the extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas D. Kave, Paula A. Nichter, Paul Wheeler
  • Publication number: 20110106084
    Abstract: An instrument for positioning a bone graft relative to a bone plate includes an instrument body having a plurality of spaced apart graft chambers, a first one of the graft chambers having a first end, a second end, and a chamber length extending between the first end and the second end, the first end of the first graft chamber including a first chamber surface for receiving a first plate segment of a first bone plate, the second end of the first graft chamber including a second chamber surface for receiving a second plate segment of the first bone plate, the first graft chamber including a central chamber surface interposed between the first chamber surface and the second chamber surface for receiving a first bone graft, the central chamber surface having a first chamber length corresponding to the graft length of the first bone grafts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas J Gamache, Michael D Sorrenti, Edward Zalenski
  • Publication number: 20110106083
    Abstract: A method of expanding the spinal canal of a vertebra including inserting a bone anchor into a first lamina of the vertebra, cutting completely through the first lamina to create a space in the first lamina, cutting partially through a second, contra-lateral lamina of the vertebra to create a partial cut in the second lamina, engaging a first segment of a plate with the bone anchor, pivoting the bone anchor and the first lamina about the partial cut in the second lamina to increase the extent of the space in the first lamina, and connecting a second segment of the plate to a portion of the vertebra across the space from the first segment of the plate such that the plate spans the space and stabilizes the vertebra.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: John C. Voellmicke, Edward Zalenski, Michael D. Sorrenti
  • Publication number: 20110106085
    Abstract: An occipital plating system includes a plating assembly with a plate body defining a profile adapted for positioning on the occiput. The plate body includes a central portion that extends bi-laterally across the central axis of the spinal column to opposite lateral portions of the plate. At least one coupling member extends from each of the lateral portions of the plate body to receive a connecting element extending from the spinal column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: William Barry Null, Marc Thomas Paul, Benjamin David Cowan, Jayant Jangra
  • Publication number: 20110106169
    Abstract: An instrument for holding a bone plate may include a first arm, a second arm connected to and adjustable relative to the first arm, a first connection tip at the distal end of the first arm configured to connect to the first side wall of the bone plate, and a second connection tip at the distal end of the second arm configured to connect to the second side wall of the bone plate. A stabilizing member is connected to the first connection tip. The stabilizing member is distally spaced apart from the first connection tip to form an opening for receiving a portion of bone between the first connection tip and the stabilizing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Edward B. Zalenski, Michael D. Sorrenti, Thomas Gamache
  • Publication number: 20110092870
    Abstract: Novel compositions, as well as related methods, coatings, and articles, are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: Biolntraface, Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Jarrell
  • Publication number: 20110087229
    Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing and/or compressing portions of bone are provided. In some aspects, a bone plate system may comprise a plate having a bone engaging surface. The plate may be fastened to two bone portions having a joint line therebetween. The system may also include a keel projecting from the bone engaging surface. The keel may extend into the bone portions and span the joint line when the plate is fastened to the bone portions. In some aspects, a ratio of an average thickness of the plate to an average width of the plate may be less than or equal to about 0.11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: University of Utah
    Inventors: Erik N. Kubiak, Charles L. Saltzman
  • Publication number: 20110087295
    Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing and/or compressing portions of bone are provided. In some aspects, a bone plate system may comprise a plate having a bone engaging surface. The plate may be fastened to two bone portions having a joint line therebetween. The system may also include a keel projecting from the bone engaging surface. The keel may extend into the bone portions and span the joint line when the plate is fastened to the bone portions. In some aspects, a ratio of an average thickness of the plate to an average width of the plate may be less than or equal to about 0.11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: University of Utah
    Inventors: Erik N. Kubiak, Charles L. Saltzman
  • Patent number: 7905883
    Abstract: A TPO bone plate with an offset longitudinal axis has a bone-contacting bottom side and a top side. Sets of overlapping holes communicate through the plate from the top to the bottom side. The overlapping holes have multifaceted surfaces such as a threaded surface or a coaxial series of annular grooves. The sets of overlapping holes are adapted to receive a bone screw with a head and a bone-engaging thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Greatbatch Medical S.A.
    Inventors: Kenneth Bruecker, Alex Khowaylo, Michael Khowaylo, Gary Thau, Robert Young, Patrick White
  • Publication number: 20110054476
    Abstract: A bone fixation device includes (a) a threaded shaft extending from a proximal end to a distal end; (b) a head located at the proximal end of the shaft; (c) a connector threadably engaging the threaded shaft and movable therealong; and (d) an extension member movable between an insertion configuration for insertion through an opening in a cortex of a bone to a locked configuration when pressed against an inner surface of the cortex. The profile of the wing in the locked configuration in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft is increased relative to the insertion configuration to distribute forces transmitted between the bone fixation apparatus and the bone over an increased area of the cortex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Reto NARDINI
  • Publication number: 20110054542
    Abstract: A system for affixing at least two portions of bone is provided. The system has a first end cap, a second end cap, and a linking member extending between the first end cap and the second end cap, wherein the first end cap has at least one leg configured to connect the linking member to the first end cap and configured to retain said connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Foley Kevin, Newt Metcalf, Greg Marik
  • Patent number: 7887569
    Abstract: An osteosynthesis implant includes at least one coupling in the form of a swivel joint. Each swivel joint includes at least one planar or annular swivel element and two connecting arms that define a pivot axis. The coupling permits rotation about each pivot axis. The implant and coupling may be formed of unitary construction, or a separate coupling may be connectable to the implant. The coupling may receive a bone fastener such as a bone screw, or may be used in applications that require the coupling to directly support portions of the body such as spinal features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Synthes USA, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Frigg
  • Patent number: 7887570
    Abstract: A bone fixation system includes a fixation plate including at least one fixation hole and at least one fastener. The fastener includes a coupler and a shank for engaging a bone. The coupler is threadably engaged with the fixation hole and includes an aperture receiving a proximal portion of the shank. The proximal portion of the shank can move relative to the coupler. The proximal portion of the shank includes a driver engagement recess for rotating the shank and the coupler together relative to the fixation plate without rotating the shank relative to the coupler and for threading the coupler to the fixation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: EBI, LLC
    Inventors: Tara Ziolo, Takkwong Ross Leung
  • Publication number: 20110028975
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a fixation device for positioning and immobilizing at least two adjacent vertebrae. In particular, in one or more embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an anterior clivus plate that immobilizes at least two adjacent vertebrae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Sean Suh, Roy Thomas Daniel
  • Patent number: 7878988
    Abstract: A method of measuring healing strength of bone includes a bone fixation plate (14) implanted at the healing area between bone segments (12). The bone fixation plate (14) includes high aspect ratio material with electric current conduction properties responsive to strain. This method causes an induced, or directly applied, electric current to pass through the high aspect ratio material. Analysis of the change in this current by a series of increasing loads placed on the healing body part indicates what level of load produces strain on the bone fixation plate (14). As healing strength increases, evidence of strain on the bone fixation plate (14) occurs at a greater load. Physicians determine thereby the strength of bone healing and safe levels of activity for patients while bone healing progresses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Stephen Thomas Bush, Stephen Francis Bush
  • Publication number: 20110009866
    Abstract: An orthopedic plate is specifically configured for use in osteotomies, in which part of the plate extends into a portion of a first bone segment and part is external to the cortical surface of an adjacent bone segment to fix the segments to allow them to fuse. The plate has a first end and a second end where the end which is inserted into the bone has a chamfer and a through hole having a hole axis optionally at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the plate, and which can receive a screw, peg or pin. The second end of the plate includes a locking screw hole and optionally including a compression slot extending in a direction toward a screw hole in the opposing end. Optionally, the non-locking hole has a shroud that forms an arc or portion of a cylinder over the hole. A plate driver having a recess that holds the plate is used to insert the plate into the bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: OrthoHelix Surgical Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Johnson, David B. Kay, Jackson R. Heavener
  • Patent number: 7867260
    Abstract: A plate for stabilizing distal radius fractures, comprising a longitudinal shaft with an adjacent distal, anatomically preformed plate part, with the envelope of the plate part having an essentially triangular shape, and threaded bores with longitudinal axes arranged in both the shaft and the distal plate part and being cone-like at least at the distal plate end, which extend in a predominately non-parallel manner in the distal plate part, and wherein a bend is formed between the shaft and the plate part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Koenigsee Implantate und Instrumente zur Osteosynthese GmbH
    Inventors: Olaf Meyer, Arnd Ehrhardt, Ulrich Dankwerth, Ulrich Finger
  • Patent number: 7867262
    Abstract: A surgical fixing device for the fixing of adjacent bone parts is provided. A first engaging element is provided for engaging the underside of the two bone parts and a second engaging element is provided for engaging the upper side of the bone parts. A tensioning device connects the two engaging elements to each other through an interspace between the bone parts and permanently fixes the two engaging elements with respect to each other in a tensioned manner when they engage the underside and the upper side of the bone parts. To make it easier to apply the fixing device, at least one elastic tensioning element is provided which displaces a supporting surface applied to the upper side of the bone parts toward the first engaging element, so that the supporting surface and the first engaging element can be moved away from each other against the force of the elastic tensioning element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Pedro Morales, Dieter Weisshaupt, Manfred Dworschak, Theodor Lutze
  • Publication number: 20100331844
    Abstract: Systems, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing bones, such as rib bones, with bone plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas J. Ellis, Joel Gillard, Steven P. Horst
  • Publication number: 20100324557
    Abstract: A bone plate for securing a spinal fixation element to bone includes a base portion having a top face, a rod receiving portion and a bone anchor receiving portion. The bone anchor receiving portion includes a plurality of angled holes for receiving bone screws. At least one of the screw holes is oriented at an acute angle relative to the top face of the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: Aesculap Implant Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Naveed Cheema, Ron Apfelbaum, Fred Geisler, Larry Khoo
  • Publication number: 20100318086
    Abstract: A medical device is provided for attachment to a patient's femur to treat a fracture in the distal region of the femur, in a patient with an artificial knee joint. The apparatus includes first and second elongate plates for attaching to the femur at the location of the fracture. The plates include coupling means to rigidly coupling the plates to the femoral component of the artificial knee joint. The apparatus further includes a transverse link for connecting the first and second plates together in a spaced apart relationship to form a rigid linkage between said plates. The invention further includes a system for treating a fracture of the femur, especially in patients with weak bones, by attaching such plates in an opposed spaced apart relationship on the lateral and medial sides of the femur, and fastening the lower ends of the plates to the femoral component of the knee. The transverse link is engaged to form a monolithic, rigid structure for bracing the femur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Mitchell Winemaker
  • Publication number: 20100305569
    Abstract: A bone reconstruction device (100, 200, 300) is provided that includes an elongated linkage (102, 202, 302) having a plurality of links (104, 204, 304). The reconstruction device further includes an adjustment assembly (120, 220, 320) that provides for adjustment of the directional and/or angular orientation of the links. The reconstruction device further includes a locking assembly (122, 222, 322) that is movable between a disengaged configuration and an engaged configuration. In the disengaged configuration, the adjustment assembly can be actuated to adjust the orientation of the links. In the engaged confirmation, the locking assembly inhibits adjustment of the orientation of the links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: Synthes (U.S.A.)
    Inventors: Samuel Leuenberger, Jens Richter, Bryan James Griffiths