Tool systems for implanting prosthetic intervertebral discs

US9381098B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Spinal Kinetics, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Darin C. Gittings · Sunnyvale, US
• Frank Fellenz · Los Gatos, US
• Jeffrey J. Dolin · Belmont, US
• Janine C. Robinson · Rue de l'Église, US
• Daren Stewart · Belmont, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 28, 2006
• Grant date: Jul 5, 2016
• Expiry date: Oct 20, 2030

Classification

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

Abstract

Described are tools—including distractor, trial, chisel, and inserter—that may be used as a system for implanting a prosthetic intervertebral disc in a spine. The distractor moves vertebrae and may have angled forks optionally offset for visibility with removable jaws optionally matching desired lordotic angles. The trial tool(s) may fit within the distractor forks, include a lordotic angle, and may include a disc portion, an adjustable stop, and a feature to control movement of the disc portion relative to the adjustable stop. The chisel tool cuts grooves in the vertebral bodies, which grooves affix the disc to the vertebrae. The chisel(s) may fit within openings in the trial, where those openings also serve as a guide during the groove-cutting step. The inserter tool, optionally with a movable pusher, is used for inserting the prosthetic disc into the prepared intervertebral disc space.