Curable orthopedic implant devices configured to harden after placement in vivo by application of a cure-initiating energy before insertion
US7771476B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 21, 2006 |
| Grant date | Aug 10, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/001
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An orthopedic implant device is non-rigid, i.e., flexible and/or malleable, in a first form for insertion into a desired in vivo site, and then transformable into a rigid, or hardened, form for providing a load-bearing function or providing other structural and/or mechanical function after implant. The device includes a biocompatible sheath and a curable material sealed within the sheath. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the device and is structured to rigidize in a second form after insertion to an in vivo location as a result of application of a cure-initiating energy to the material prior to insertion. Related methods and kits are also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.