Variable stiffness support members
US7875059B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 18, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jan 25, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/00526
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Spinal support members having varying stiffnesses are disclosed. In one embodiment, an elongated spinal prosthetic includes a pair of curved elongated portions. The portions are formed of materials having different stiffness characteristics such that the stiffness of the prosthetic varies along its length. In another embodiment, an elongated spinal implant includes a pair of threadedly engaged elongated sections. The first section is formed of a first material having a first rigidity. The second section has an inner portion formed of the first material and an outer portion formed of a second material. The second material is less rigid than the first material. In another embodiment, a modular spinal rod is provided. The modular spinal rod includes a pair of connectable rod portions with different stiffness characteristics. In yet another embodiment, a kit for a modular spinal rod includes a plurality of connectable modular rod portions having different stiffness characteristics.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.