Having A Spring Patents (Class 623/17.13)
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Patent number: 7604664Abstract: An artificial intervertebral disc having a pair of opposing plate members for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces, separated by a spring mechanism. The preferred spring mechanism is at least one spirally slotted belleville washer having radially extending grooves. One plate member has a centrally located ball-shaped protrusion that is rotatably coupled in a central socket in the narrow end of the belleville washer, and the wide end of the belleville washer is held against the other plate member by a shield with rivets. Therefore, the disc assembly will not come apart under tension loads applied to the plate members, and the location of the ball joint coupling provides the disc assembly with a centroid of motion that is centrally located between the vertebral bone surfaces, both causing the disc assembly to behave similarly in these respects to a healthy natural intervertebral disc.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2002Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: SpineCore, Inc.Inventors: James D. Ralph, Stephen Tatar
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Patent number: 7601174Abstract: An implantable endoprosthesis is adapted to articulate with one or more prosthesis surfaces, and is at least partially formed from a material having high wear resistance, which may be a polymeric material such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polyetherether ketone (PEEK), and the like, or a metallic material, such as a cobalt-chrome alloy, or a ceramic material, such as alumina or zirconia. The body member of the endoprosthesis may be formed from a composite material, and includes at least a first component formed from a first material having increased wear resistance as compared to that of a second material forming a second component of the body member. The second material is generally more resilient as compared to the first material.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2003Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Inventors: Aaron Kelly, Leonard Tokish, Jeff Edfast, David Yager, Alex Kunzler, Vincent Bryan, Randy Allard, Jeff Rouleau, Robert Conta, Carlos Gil
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Publication number: 20090240333Abstract: A motion preserving implant having first and second bearing members and a biasing member disposed therebetween operable to provide resistance to the translation of the bodies with respect to one another. An intervertebral implant having first and second bearing members, a translatable member, a resilient connection between the translatable member and one of the bearing members to allow for relative motion therebetween and bearing surfaces of the translatable member and the other bearing member to allow complex, natural motion between the bearing members. A spinal implant having upper and lower bodies and an articulation surface that allows for polyaxial articulation and translation through a concave articulation surface having a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature in at least one plane, and a convex articulation surface having the first radius of curvature in the same plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventors: Jeffrey L. Trudeau, Qi-Bin Bao, Brian Janowski, Weston Pernsteiner, Tim Brown
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Patent number: 7588591Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes a middle part, comprising two pins, which can be introduced into the intervertebral space between two vertebrae having a central axis, a first end intersecting the central axis, and a second end intersecting the central axis, and two longitudinal parts each with a longitudinal axis extending transversely to the central axis of the middle part and each with an apposition surface directed transversely to the central axis of the middle part contacting the two processi spinosi of two adjacent vertebra bodies. Each part is connectable with one end of the middle part in such a manner that the apposition surfaces are directed against one another. The middle part of the implant is extendable transversely to its central axis along the longitudinal axes of the two parts.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Synthesis USA, LLCInventors: Stephan Hartmann, Armin Studer
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Patent number: 7585324Abstract: A cervical intervertebral stabilizer for a cervical region of a spine includes: a first surface operable to engage an endplate of a first vertebral bone of a spine; a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; a spring element including at least one of: (i) a helical wound spring; and (ii) a hollow body having at least one slit forming a plurality of annular circumferential helical coils, the spring element being disposed between the first and second surfaces and being operable to provide reactive force in response to compression loads from the first and second vertebral bones, wherein at least some diameters of respective turns of the helical coils differ.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Cervical Xpand, LLCInventors: Todd James Albert, Richard H. Rothman, Rafail Zubok, Mikhail Kvitnitsky
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Patent number: 7582114Abstract: An intervertebral stabilizer includes: a first surface operable to engage an endplate of a first vertebral bone of a spine; a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; a spring element between the first and second surfaces and operable to provide reactive force in response to compression loads from the first and second vertebral bones, wherein a cross-sectional profile taken through the surfaces is hourglass shaped.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Cervical Xpand, LLCInventors: Todd James Albert, Richard H. Rothman, Rafail Zubok, Mikhail Kvitnitsky
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Patent number: 7578849Abstract: Implants and methods for spacing and stabilizing vertebral members. The implant in one embodiment may include first and second endplates and an intermediate section that form an interior section. An elastic member may be positioned within the interior section to space apart the endplates. The elastic member may have a variety of orientations, sizes, shapes, densities, modulus of elasticity, and other material properties depending upon the desired displacement between the first and second endplates. In use according to one embodiment, the implant may assume a first shape when the vertebral members are aligned, such as when the patient is standing erect or in a prone position. This first shape may include the first and second endplates spaced a first distance apart. During movement of the vertebral members, the endplates may be forced together. The intermediate section in combination with the elastic member may be deformed during this movement and thereby exert a force to stabilize the vertebral members.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Inventor: Hai H. Trieu
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Patent number: 7578847Abstract: A posterior intervertebral stabilizer includes: a first stabilizing element having: (i) a first surface operable to engage an endplate of a first vertebral bone of a spine, and (ii) a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; a second stabilizing element having: (i) a first surface operable to engage an endplate of the first vertebral bone of the spine, and (ii) a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of the adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; and respective spring elements, each including helical coils, disposed between the respective first and second surfaces of the first and second stabilizing elements, each operable to provide a reactive force in response to compression loads from the first and second vertebral bones, wherein at least some diameters of respective turns of the respective helical coils differ.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Cervical Xpand, LLCInventors: Todd James Albert, Richard H. Rothman, Rafail Zubok, Mikhail Kvitnitsky
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Patent number: 7578848Abstract: An intervertebral stabilizer includes: a first surface operable to engage an endplate of a first vertebral bone of a spine; a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; a spring element between the first and second surfaces and operable to provide reactive force in response to compression loads from the first and second vertebral bones, wherein a cross-sectional profile taken through the surfaces is hourglass shaped.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Cervical Xpand, LLCInventors: Todd James Albert, Richard H. Rothman, Rafail Zubok, Mikhail Kvitnitsky
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Patent number: 7575598Abstract: A lumbar intervertebral stabilizer for a lumbar region of a spine includes: a first surface operable to engage an endplate of a first vertebral bone of a spine; a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent second vertebral bone of the spine; a spring element including at least one of: (i) a helical wound spring; and (ii) a hollow body having at least one slit forming a plurality of annular circumferential helical coils, the spring element being disposed between the first and second surfaces and being operable to provide reactive force in response to compression loads from the first and second vertebral bones, wherein at least some diameters of respective turns of the helical coils differ.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2005Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Cervical Xpand, LLCInventors: Todd James Albert, Richard H. Rothman, Rafail Zubok, Mikhail Kvitnitsky
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Publication number: 20090192615Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes an upper surface configured for engagement with a first vertebral body, and a lower surface configured for engagement with a second vertebral body. A wall extends between the upper surface and the lower surface, and forms a chamber for containing osteogenic material. At least a portion of the wall is collapsible from a first position associated with a first volume of the chamber to a second position associated with a second volume of the chamber. The second volume is less than the first volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2008Publication date: July 30, 2009Applicant: AESCULAP IMPLANT SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: JEFFREY TYBER, CHARLES WING, LARRY PIJANOWSKI
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Publication number: 20090192617Abstract: An artificial intervertebral disc has upper and lower prosthesis plates disposed about a shock absorbing mobile core. The shock absorbing core includes one or more spring washers or disc springs between rigid upper and lower surfaces of the core to allow the upper and lower surfaces to move resiliently toward and away from each other. This allows the core to absorb forces applied to it by the vertebrae. The components of the shock absorbing core including the disc springs are formed of rigid materials having high durability and biocompatibility.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2009Publication date: July 30, 2009Applicant: SpinalMotion, Inc.Inventors: Yves Arramon, Malan de Villiers, Neville Jansen
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Publication number: 20090157185Abstract: The process uses micro-machining for forming a prosthetic spinal disc in which one of more springs bias adjacent vertebrae apart and absorb shock. Instead of using conventionally wound springs, the entire prosthesis including the springs are formed by micro-machining a block of material. Imaging, load and other patient data provide the parameters for the prosthesis.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2007Publication date: June 18, 2009Inventor: Chong Chol Kim
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Publication number: 20090138085Abstract: Disclosed is an endoprosthetic implant for a human spinal disc. The structure of the implant allows it to be inserted posteriorly. This insertion is accomplished by performing a partial discectomy in the affected region. An intervertebral space is then created by removing the fibrocartilage between the facing surfaces of adjacent vertebrae. The implant is then inserted into the intervertebral space. The implant is thus adapted to replace damaged or worn intervertebral discs. Furthermore, the structure of the implant, and its posterior insertion, alleviate most spinal pathologies.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2009Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventor: Rush E. Simonson
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Patent number: 7537612Abstract: A prosthetic device for insertion into an intervertebral disc space is provided. The device includes a first endplate component for engaging a first vertebral body, a second endplate component for engaging a second vertebral body, and an articulating central body component extending between the first and second endplate components. The articulating central body component having a mechanical compression component.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Inventor: Alex Kunzler
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Patent number: 7537613Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Impliant Ltd.Inventors: Uri Arnin, Michael Tauber, Yuri Sudin, Yoram Anekstein
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Publication number: 20090132049Abstract: An artificial spinal disc implant method for intervertebral disc replacement (0810) is disclosed which is formed from an upper (0801) and lower (0802) bracket which mate to upper and lower spinal vertebrae via upper (0831) and lower (0832) vertebral contact surfaces on the upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets. The upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets are joined together via springs (0811) connected to the upper bracket (0801) which rest in spring guide tracks (0812) on the lower bracket. The springs (0811) are connected to the upper bracket (0801) via the use of spring fasteners (0821, 0822). The upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets may be installed in sections (0851, 0861, 0871, 0852, 0862, 0872) using laparoscopic surgical techniques and are attached to upper/lower spinal vertebrae respectively via adhesive means applied using injection holes/ports (0841, 0842) in the upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2009Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: Donna Jean Carver, Chad Anthony Barrie, John David Herrera
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Publication number: 20090112326Abstract: A system for forming a spinal prosthesis in situ within an intervertebral space located between first and second adjacent vertebrae includes at least one mold having at least one internal compartment adapted to receive at least one flowable biomaterial. The system also includes a retaining member adapted to secure the mold between the first and second vertebrae, the retaining member including first and second portions adapted to be engaged with first and second surfaces of the first and second vertebrae, respectively. The retaining member also includes an intermediate body operatively coupling the first portion to the second portion, the intermediate body adapted to be positioned in or adjacent to the intervertebral space. A biomaterial delivery apparatus is in fluid communication with the mold at a pressure sufficient for the mold to engage with the retaining member. The spinal prosthesis selectively position the first vertebrae relative to the second vertebrae.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Disc Dynamics, Inc.Inventors: Jean-Charles Lehuec, Erik O. Martz
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Publication number: 20090076613Abstract: An intervertebral disc prosthesis includes a base plate, a top plate, a central axis extending through the center of the base plate and the top plate, and at least two springs arranged between the base plate and the top plate. The springs each have a loop-shaped section and two free ends. One of the free ends of the springs is connected to the base plate and the other one of the free ends is connected to the top plate. The loop-shaped section is directed away from the central axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Jurgen Harms
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Publication number: 20090048676Abstract: A spinal implant may be deployable, when positioned within a vertebral space between a pair of vertebral bodies, from a first laterally non-expanded condition to a second laterally expanded condition. The spinal implant may include top beams and bottom beams separated by at least one post that is, in one embodiment, length variable in response to a load put on the implant after deployment of the implant. In an alternate embodiment, at least one post is laterally variable in response to a load put on the implant. In another embodiment, one of the posts may be centrally located.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventor: Henry F. Fabian, JR.
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Patent number: 7491240Abstract: An artificial spinal disc implant system for intervertebral disc replacement (0810) is disclosed which is formed from an upper (0801) and lower (0802) bracket which mate to upper and lower spinal vertebrae via upper (0831) and lower (0832) vertebral contact surfaces on the upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets. The upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets are joined together via springs (0811) connected to the upper bracket (0801) which rest in spring guide tracks (0812) on the lower bracket. The springs (0811) are connected to the upper bracket (0801) via the use of spring fasteners (0821, 0822). The upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets may be installed in sections (0851, 0861, 0871, 0852, 0862, 0872) using laparoscopic surgical techniques and are attached to upper/lower spinal vertebrae respectively via adhesive means applied using injection holes/ports (0841, 0842) in the upper (0801) and lower (0802) brackets respectively.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2006Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Inventors: Donna Jean Carver, Chad Anthony Barrie, John David Herrera
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Patent number: 7488330Abstract: A modular, static intervertebral trial having interchangeable base members having different heights, and interchangeable endplates having different footprints and angles.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Depuy Spine, Inc.Inventor: Shawn Stad
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Patent number: 7485134Abstract: Disclosed is an endoprosthetic implant for a human spinal disc. The structure of the implant allows it to be inserted posteriorly. This insertion is accomplished by performing a partial discectomy in the affected region. An intervertebral space is then created by removing the fibrocartilage between the facing surfaces of adjacent vertebrae. The implant is then inserted into the intervertebral space. The implant is thus adapted to replace damaged or worn intervertebral discs. Furthermore, the structure of the implant, and its posterior insertion, alleviate most spinal pathologies.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Inventor: Rush E. Simonson
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Patent number: 7476251Abstract: The present invention is an interspinous process implant with a selectably expandable spacer that can be placed between adjacent spinous processes.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2006Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Kyphon SARLInventors: James F. Zucherman, Ken Y. Hsu, Charles J. Winslow
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Patent number: 7473276Abstract: An intervertebral implant (1), including an upper section (10) provided with a ventral side area (11), a dorsal side area (12), two lateral side areas (13,14), a top apposition surface (15) and a bottom surface (16), a lower section (20) provided with a ventral side area (21), a dorsal side area (22), two lateral side areas (23,24), a bottom apposition surface (25) and a top surface (26), wherein the two sections (10,20) are moveable in relation to each other by means of two joints (38;39) arranged between the two sections (10;20), and wherein each of the joints (38;39) has a swivel axle (3;4) and the two swivel axles (3;4) are arranged perpendicular to each other, each of the joints (38;39) comprises at least one axle (34;36) coaxial to the relevant swivel axle (3;4) and a bearing shell (35;37) receiving the axle (34;36), and roll bodies (70) are inserted between the axles (34;36) and the bearing shells (35;37).Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Synthes (U.S.A.)Inventors: Max Aebi, Dominique Burkard, Robert Frigg, Beat Lechmann, Robert Mathys, Jr., Paul Pavlov
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Patent number: 7462196Abstract: An method and apparatus is provided for achieving stability of an implant in an intervertebral space of the human body, including an implant having a superior surface and an inferior surface, the surfaces having no significant protrusions extending therefrom and at least one modular projection mateable with one of each superior and inferior surface of the implant to achieve stability within the intervertebral space. The implants can be selected form a group of artificial discs and spinal fusion cages.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: DePuy Spine, Inc.Inventors: Robert Fraser, John Riley Hawkins, Christopher Rogers, Andrew Dooris, Mark Lionetto
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Patent number: 7458988Abstract: A vertebral implant device for interposition between two vertebral endplates comprises an outer body and an inner body. The outer body movably engages the inner body. A core member positioned between the outer body and the inner body is at least partially compressed when a load is applied to the implant device.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2003Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Inventors: Hai H. Trieu, Michael C. Sherman, Bret M. Berry
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Publication number: 20080262620Abstract: A spring member for an artificial intervertebral disc includes a substantially annular body including an axially extended bore therethrough defining a passageway. A seat extends radially inward towards the bore for seating therein a bearing member for adjusting and compensating vertebral disc motion. An engagement member extends radially outwardly from the bore for engaging a housing member and securing the spring member within the housing member. The spring member absorbs compressive loads between the bearing member and the housing member while controlling motion and position of the bearing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: Aesculap Implant Systems, Inc.Inventors: Marc Richelsoph, Joseph Clift
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Publication number: 20080249627Abstract: An implant and method for insertion between two adjacent vertebrae includes an implant body having a leading end and a trailing end spaced apart by a longitudinal dimension of the implant, two diametrically opposed first and second shells, each of the shells having a body portion and a thread portion extending outwardly from the body portion, and a resilient support portion disposed between the two shells. The support portion may be made of an elastomeric material or may include a spring mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2007Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: ZIMMER SPINE, INC.Inventors: Jeff W. Moehlenbruck, Steven L. Griffith
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Patent number: 7429270Abstract: Disclosed is an intervertebral implant (1) comprising a central axis (2), a bottom cover plate (3) and a top cover plate (4), which are respectively provided with an exterior surface (7; 8) that extends transversal to the central axis (2), and a central part (10). Said central part (10) is located between the cover plates (3; 4) and is provided with a sleeve (12) encompassing a fiber system (5) that is connected to the cover plates (3; 4) and is embedded in an enveloping body (25) made of a homogeneous material. In analogy with the anatomic structure of the natural disk, the inventive intervertebral implant (1) can transfer occurring compressive forces onto the cover plates (3, 4) thereof as tensile forces that are applied to the individual fibers of the fiber system (5) thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Synthes (U.S.A.)Inventors: Daniel Baumgartner, Martin Wymann, Mario Gago Ho, Adrian Burri
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Publication number: 20080215153Abstract: An embodiment of an intervertebral prosthetic device for implantation in a spine includes a rigid fixation member and a compressible member. The fixation member is configured to be placed in a cavity of a first vertebral body and against bone of the first vertebral body. The compressible member is configured to be placed in a cavity in an intervertebral disc and to be secured to the first fixation member. Another embodiment includes two compressible members and one fixation member. In this embodiment, the first and second compressible members are sized to substantially replace the nucleus pulposus of first and a second intervertebral discs, respectively, on either side of a vertebral body. The fixation member is sized to fit within a cavity in the vertebral body between the first and second compressible members.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventors: Glenn Robin Butterman, Jeffrey Joseph Anderman, Frank Robert Ferris
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Publication number: 20080161931Abstract: A vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device that restores the loss of disc height as a result of disc degeneration and other factors. The vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device includes pedicle screws having heads with cup-shaped cavities. The pedicle screws are threaded into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebrae through the pedicles so that open parts of the heads of the pedicle screws face each other. A spring is inserted into the cup-shaped cavities in compression so that the spring bias forces the pedicle screws apart, thus increasing the height of the disc space.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2006Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: MI4SPINE, LLCInventors: Miquelangelo J. Perez-Cruet, John R. Pepper, John A. Miller
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Publication number: 20080161924Abstract: A vertebral disc replacement includes superior and inferior end plates separated by a leaf spring. The leaf spring includes two opposed legs that extend from a floating intermediate portion of the leaf spring to the superior end plate and two opposed legs that extend from the floating intermediate portion to the inferior end plate. The disc replacement device is compact and provides freedom of movement along three axes, translational along the caudal/cranial axis, lateral bending and flexion/extension.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2007Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: ZIMMER SPINE, INC.Inventor: Thomas O. Viker
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Publication number: 20080154381Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for improving the stability, flexibility, and/or proper anatomical motion of a spinal column and more particularly, spinal implant devices are provided for use between adjacent vertebral bones. Intervertebral disc spacer devices may comprise two joined surfaces formed of compressible materials. The surfaces may be convex or any variety of shapes. Certain embodiments of intervertebral disc spacer devices include apertures through which nutrients may pass. Additionally, certain embodiments include a partial enclosure or open region between the two surfaces so as to provide an environment conducive to regrowth or stimulation of natural intervertebral disc material. In certain embodiments, the two surfaces may be attached by one or more springs. Alternatively, intervertebral disc spacer embodiments may be comprised of a coiled wire. Methods of introducing intervertebral disc spacer devices into patients are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2008Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Rob Gene Parrish
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Publication number: 20080140203Abstract: A spinal intervertebral support coil sized to fit inside the intervertebral sac between adjacent vertebral bones of the spine and formed as a helical spring of high-resiliency material. The support coil is adapted for corkscrew insertion within an intervertebral disk sack between opposing disk bodies for additional (augmenting) support thereof by interposing a predetermined bias between opposing disk bodies, yet allowing a limited degree of rotational movement, torsional movement, and axial movement in a compressive direction for full displacement, rotation, subluxation, flexion, and extension of the vertebral bodies. An insertion tool is also disclosed for corkscrew insertion of the support coil, and this includes a handle and body with a rotating rod keyed to the support coil. A method for insertion of the spinal intervertebral support coil is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventor: Reginald Davis
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Publication number: 20080140202Abstract: An implant for insertion between vertebral bodies in a patient includes a flexible tether that is coupled between fasteners attached to the vertebral bodies. An energy storing device may be coupled to the tether to convert extension forces between the vertebral bodies into potential energy. The energy storing device may reduce defects at the interface between the fasteners and the vertebral bodies. Various embodiments are provided, including energy storing devices implemented as springs, leaf springs, coiled wire, and corrugated shapes. The energy storing device may be preloaded between the vertebral bodies to further reduce shock from sudden extensions. The energy storing device may be secured to the tether before or after the tether is secured to the fasteners. Further, the energy storing device may be sized to allow the tether and energy storing device to pass laterally through a fastener opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2006Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventors: Randall Noel Allard, Larry Thomas McBride, Tom J. Francis, Thomas A. Carls
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Patent number: 7361192Abstract: The subject invention provides a modular six-degrees-of-freedom spatial mechanism for spinal disc prosthesis, with three rotational and three translational degrees-of-freedom within the entire workspace of a Functional Spinal Unit (FSU). The prosthetic disc mechanism attaches to upper and lower plates anchored between vertebrae of an FSU. Scaling, conjoined with motion limit stops, allows the device to realize almost any nominal spinal articulation, from the cervical to lumbar regions.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventor: Keith L. Doty
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Patent number: 7351261Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for repairing or replacing damaged, injured, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy posterior elements, such as the facet joints, the lamina, the posterior ligaments, and/or other features of a patient's spinal column. In one exemplary embodiment, an implant is provided having an anterior portion that is adapted to be positioned between adjacent vertebrae and a posterior portion that is adapted to be positioned around a spinal cord and to couple to a posterior surface of at least one adjacent vertebra. In use, the implant can allow the adjacent vertebrae to move relative to one another, thereby restoring normal function to the vertebrae.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2005Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: DePuy Spine, Inc.Inventor: Niall Casey
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Publication number: 20080077246Abstract: The implantable inter-vertebral prosthesis is comprised of a cranial endplate (10) and a caudal endplate (12), between which spring structure are provided. The spring structure are comprised of a memory metal alloy, which at body temperature exhibits super elastic characteristics. The spring structure are planar structures (14) parallel to the surface of the endplates (10, 12) and are comprised of wires of memory metal alloy tensioned running in the plane of the planar structure (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: FEHLING AGInventors: Guido Fehling, Gerald Fehling
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Publication number: 20080077117Abstract: Methods, devices and systems facilitate diagnosis, and in some cases treatment, of back pain originating in intervertebral discs. Methods generally involve introducing one or more substances into one or more discs using a catheter device. In one embodiment, a patient assumes a position that causes back pain, and a substance such as an anesthetic or analgesic is introduced into the disc to determine whether the substance relieves the pain. Injections into multiple discs may optionally be performed, to help pinpoint a disc as a source of the patient's pain. In some embodiments, the catheter device is left in place, and possibly coupled with another implantable device, to provide treatment of one or more discs. A catheter device includes at least one anchoring member for maintaining a distal portion of the catheter within a disc.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2006Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: Kyphon, Inc.Inventors: David R. Miller, Todd Alamin, Peter F. Campbell
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Patent number: 7331994Abstract: An intervertebral disc prosthesis for placement between a first vertebra and a second vertebra adjacent to the first vertebra. In one embodiment, the intervertebral disc prosthesis includes a resilient member, a first support member and a second support member. The first support member and the second support member are housed into the resilient member that is arranged, in use, to be secured to the first vertebra and the second vertebra, respectively. The intervertebral disc prosthesis can generate a coupled motion in more than one possible direction responsive to a possible movement of at least one of the first vertebra and the second vertebra, among the resilient member, the first support member and the second support member.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Jeffrey D. Gordon, John K. Song
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Publication number: 20080027547Abstract: A prosthetic device for placement in an intervertebral space defined between an upper vertebra and a lower vertebra to provide articulating motion to the upper and lower vertebrae. The prosthetic device may include a first articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space and adjacent to the first vertebra and a second articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space and adjacent to the second vertebra. A hemispherical member is also included, about which the first and second articular portions can articulate. A flexible member flexibly secures the hemispherical member to the first articular portion. A method of implanting also is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic Inc.Inventors: Kidong Yu, Eric Lange
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Publication number: 20080004702Abstract: Spinal implant devices include: (a) a spinal implant; and (b) at least on suture extending through a bone tunnel and attached to the spinal implant to fixate the spinal implant in the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2007Publication date: January 3, 2008Inventor: Guilhem Denoziere
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Patent number: 7314486Abstract: An artificial disc having a pair of opposing plates for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces, separated by a wave washer having a circumferential extent surrounding a central bore. Various wave washer embodiments disclosed include circumferential extents that are ring-shaped, spiral-shaped, straight, bowed, grooved, wavy, thinning, thickening, and slotted. Various central bores disclosed include simple bores and bores that form a curvate socket. Various plate embodiments disclosed include plates having, on inwardly facing surfaces, a flat surface, a circular recess, or a ball-shaped protuberance that is mateable with the curvate socket. The wave washers are disposable between the plates, through various disclosed couplings, so that the plates compress, rotate and angulate freely relative to one another, enabling the artificial disc to mimic a healthy natural intervertebral disc.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: SpineCore, Inc.Inventors: James D. Ralph, Stephen Tatar, Joseph P. Errico
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Patent number: 7314487Abstract: An intervertebral spacer device having a pair of opposing plates for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces, separated by at least one force restoring element. The preferred force restoring mechanism is a wave washer. In a first embodiment the wave washer is ring-shaped. In a second embodiment the wave washer is spiral-shaped.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: SpineCore, Inc.Inventors: James D. Ralph, Stephen Tatar, Joseph P. Errico
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Patent number: 7309357Abstract: A prosthetic spinal disc uses a stiff spring or springs for resiliency between two plates that attach to adjacent vertebrae. When the disc has multiple springs, they may be adjacent, concentric or nested. Multiple springs may be spaced around the periphery of the plates. A foil metal bellows may surround the plates to prevent material from entering or exiting the space between the plates. Alternatively, the ends of the spring(s) may be machined with spikes to engage the vertebrae directly without plates.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Infinesse, CorporationInventor: Chong Chol Kim
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Patent number: 7297162Abstract: An expandable implant having a helical body and first and second securing pieces. Ends of the helical body are connected to the first and second end pieces. The first and second end pieces can be rotated relative to one another to expand the implant from a first dimension to a selected second dimension. The implant further includes a locking arrangement to maintain the implant at the selected second dimension.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: Zimmer Spine, Inc.Inventor: James R. Mujwid
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Patent number: 7291171Abstract: Artificial disc (ADR) and joint replacement components, particularly those associated with the knee and hip, use compressible, resilient materials to approximate natural kinematics, often in conjunction with elastic or spring components to tether articulating components to avoid dislocation, excessive compression, flexion or other out-of-range movements. The preferred embodiments require only two or a few articulating components. The designs allow for normal flexion, extension, lateral bending, rotation, and translocation, depending upon the application.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Bret A. Ferree
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Patent number: 7291173Abstract: An artificial intervertebral disc including housing members including spaced inner surfaces facing each other and oppositely facing outer surfaces for engaging spaced apart intervertebral surfaces; self-adjusting bearing mechanisms operatively disposed between the inner surfaces for moving relative to the housing members to adjust and compensate for vertebral disc motion; and positioning ring for controlling motion and position of the bearing mechanisms and for absorption of compressive loads. An artificial intervertebral disc including housing members having an oval recess on the inner surfaces; oval bearing mechanisms operatively disposed within the oval recess between the inner surfaces for moving relative to the housing members to adjust and compensate for vertebral disc motion; and oval positioning ring. A spring member for an artificial intervertebral disc including a substantially annular body having an axially extended bore therethrough defining a passageway.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Aesculap II, Inc.Inventors: Marc Richelsoph, Joseph Clift
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Patent number: 7282063Abstract: A spinal surgical prosthesis such as an artificial disc having a pair of upper and lower plate members, a flexible disc interposes therebetween and a rigid collar made of a bio-compatible and bio-resorbable material surrounding the flexible disc between the upper and lower plate members. Prior to the resorption of the collar, the collar serves to provide stability to the flexible disc for enhancing osteo-integration of the prosthesis with adjacent vertebrae. Subsequent to the resorption of the rigid collar, the flexible disc provides flexibility and compressibility while maintaining the proper inter disc space and lordosis or kyphosis between adjacent vertebrae.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Assignee: Advanced Prosthetic Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Howard Cohen, Ladislau Biro, Matthew S. Cohen