Methods and systems for enhancing radiographic images of radiolucent implants
US10206785B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 28, 2016 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2002/444
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A radiolucent intervertebral prosthesis is implanted in an environment that has been prepared in a manner which enhances radiopacity of the prosthesis and/or the environment. A liquid, powder, or other fluid radiopaque (RO) material, such as iohexol, is introduced into an implantation site, either by directly introducing the material into the site and/or by applying the material to a surface of the implant. The presence of the RO material in the implantation site provides contrast with the material of radiolucent prosthesis while the implantation site is being radiographically imaged, e.g. during fluoroscopic visualization while the prosthesis is being implanted. During implantation, the RO material helps the physician view and manipulate the implant, and after the implantation is complete, the RO material will be resorbed or otherwise lost from the implantation site so that the area returns to a radiolucent condition to facilitate subsequent radiographic imaging when needed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.