Spinal implant system

US7879104B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.

Inventors

• Jonathan M. Dewey · Memphis, US
• Lauren I. Lyons · Memphis, US
• Christopher M. Patterson · Olive Branch, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 15, 2006
• Grant date: Feb 1, 2011
• Expiry date: Dec 3, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B17/842
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An interspinous spacer system includes a core configured to fit between adjacent spinous processes, a first fork movable relative to the core from a non-use position to an in-use position, and second fork. When in the in-use position, the first fork extends outwardly from a first side of the core and bounds an opening. The second fork extends outwardly from a second side of the core, opposite the first side, and bounds the opening. Third and fourth forks extend outwardly from the first and second sides of the core respectively and form a second opening. The second, third, and fourth forks are affixed relative to the core and relative to each other. The first fork is inserted between spinous processes in the non-use position to avoid damage to a superspinous ligament adjacent the spinous processes. Other aspects and related methods are also disclosed.