Expandable and angularly adjustable articulating intervertebral cages

US11596523B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Eit Emerging Implant Technologies GmbH

Inventors

• Guntmar Eisen · Tuttlingen, DE
• Detlev Ganter · Villingen-Schwenningen, DE
• Marcus Eif · Holtendorf, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 28, 2017
• Grant date: Mar 7, 2023
• Expiry date: Jun 28, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2002/4615
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The embodiments provide various interbody fusion spacers, or cages, for insertion between adjacent vertebrae. The cages may contain an articulating mechanism to allow expansion and angular adjustment, and enable upper and lower plate components to glide smoothly relative to one another. The cages may have a first, insertion configuration characterized by a reduced size at each of their insertion ends to facilitate insertion through a narrow access passage and into the intervertebral space. In their second, expanded configuration, the cages are able to maintain the proper disc height and stabilize the spine by restoring sagittal balance and alignment. The intervertebral cages are able to adjust the angle of lordosis, and can accommodate larger lodortic angles in their second, expanded configuration. Further, these cages may promote fusion to further enhance spine stability by immobilizing the adjacent vertebral bodies.