Minimally invasive expanding spacer and method
US7087055B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 25, 2002 |
| Grant date | Aug 8, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2002/30624
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A minimaly invasive spacer for positioning between vertebral members. The spacer is adjustable between a first orientation having a reduced size to facilitate insertion between the vertebral members. A second orientation has an enlarged size for contacting the vertebral members. The spacer includes linkages that are attached to a pair of plates. A pull arm is operatively connected to the linkages for adjusting the spacer from the first orientation to the second orientation. A delivery device is attached to the spacer for insertion between the vertebral members. In one embodiment, the delivery device is detachable to be removed from the spacer once positioned between the vertebral members. Methods of using the spacer include positioning the spacer between the vertebral members while in the first orientation. The spacer is then enlarged to the second orientation, and the delivery device is removed with only the spacer remaining within the patient.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.