Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization
US7361196B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 22, 2005 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 22, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/7052
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.