Geared cam expandable interbody implant and method of implanting same

US10137007B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.

Inventors

• Jonathan M. Dewey · Memphis, US
• William D. Armstrong · Memphis, US
• Anthony J. Melkent · Germantown, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 5, 2016
• Grant date: Nov 27, 2018
• Expiry date: Oct 26, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2250/0009
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A geared cam expandable spinal implant. Rotational motion of a rotating portion is translated into linear motion of a yoke, which moves geared cams at the distal end of the implant to mate with, and walk along, teeth of corresponding racks. The walking of the gear cam teeth along the rack teeth creates a regular rate of implant expansion, reduces initial excessive expansion force applied to the implant, and provides fine adjustment of the expansion rate and force. Spikes, pivotally mounted on the yoke, pivot outward as the implant expands, to a fully-deployed position into engagement with surfaces of adjacent vertebral bodies. The engagement between the deployed spikes and the vertebral bodies prevents inadvertent backout of the expanded implant.