Replacement or supplementation of a nucleus pulposus using a hydrogel

US8118874B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Synthes USA, LLC · US

Inventors

• Edward Vresilovic · Ardmore, US
• Michael F. Keane · North Wales, US
• Alastair J. T. Clemow · Princeton, US
• Nigel G. Smith · Norwich, GB

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 28, 2009
• Grant date: Feb 21, 2012
• Expiry date: Aug 17, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2250/0098
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc is supplemented or replaced by an elongated, physiologically fully hydrated hydrogel prosthesis inserted into the central region of an intervertebral disc, where it can fold upon itself to form a prosthesis body within the central region of the annulus fibrosus. The hydrogel prosthesis may have expanded portions that assist in preventing expulsion of the prosthesis through the insertion aperture. An instrument for inserting the prosthesis has a cutter for severing the elongated prosthesis within the central region of the intervertebral disc after a sufficient amount has been implanted.