Intervertebral disc replacement prosthesis
US6579321B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 17, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 17, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2310/00592
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An implantable intervertebral disc prosthesis that comprises a disc member having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a perimeter surface. The disc includes an axis at least one slit defined in the perimeter surface; the slit being of sufficient depth and thickness to provide flexure. The slit terminates in a perimeter opening larger than the slit thickness. The perimeter opening (i.e., hole) acts as a pivot point and relieves stress. The disc prosthesis optionally comprises a cavity with an upper seat defined on the lower surface, a lower disc having an upper and lower surface and a lower seat defined on the upper surface, and a support ball. The support ball engages the seat on the upper disc and the seat on the lower disc.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.