Implant system and method to treat degenerative disorders of the spine
US8043337B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 11, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 25, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/7052
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A spinal implant system includes at each spinal level a flexible horizontal rod to which are mounted two opposing clamps. The clamps wrap around the facets of a vertebra to secure the horizontal rod to the vertebra. A stiff vertical connector system connects the flexible horizontal rod secured at one level of the spine to a flexible horizontal rod secured at an adjacent level of the spine. The vertical connector system is spaced along the flexible horizontal rod away from the opposing clamps. The flexible horizontal rods are preferably made of PEEK or Nitinol. The opposing clamps and vertical connector system are preferably made of titanium or stainless steel. Bending of the flexible horizontal rod permits movement of the opposing clamps relative to the vertical rod. The spinal implant system thereby provides for dynamic stabilization and motion preservation of the spine.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.