Patent ID: 7316714
Filing Date: 2008-01-08
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. An intervertebral implant for a human spine, comprising: an upper body comprising an inferior surface and a superior surface, wherein the superior surface of the upper body is configured to engage a first vertebra of the human spine; a lower body comprising a superior surface and an inferior surface, wherein the inferior surface of the lower body is configured to engage a second vertebra of the human spine; an insert comprising a superior surface and an inferior surface, wherein the insert is configured to be positioned between the superior surface of the lower body and the inferior surface of the upper body before insertion of the intervertebral implant between the first vertebra and the second vertebra of the human spine; an expansion member configured to engage the insert; a set screw configured to be rotated to advance the expansion member to engage the insert such that the insert increases a separation distance between the upper body and the lower body after insertion of the intervertebral implant in the human spine; and wherein the intervertebral implant is configured such that increasing the separation distance between the upper body and the lower body allows articulation or increased articulation of the intervertebral implant.