Source: http://www.google.com/patents/US20020045904?dq=6,826,762
Timestamp: 2016-05-02 08:28:00
Document Index: 532024626

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'art 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6', 'arts 6']

Patent US20020045904 - Surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants - Google PatentsSearch Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »Sign inPatentsIn order, in the case of a surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants into the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebral bodies, to facilitate the introduction of the intervertebral implant even when access is difficult, it is proposed that the surgical instrument comprises two...http://www.google.com/patents/US20020045904?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US20020045904 - Surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implantsAdvanced Patent SearchPublication numberUS20020045904 A1Publication typeApplicationApplication numberUS 09/916,192Publication dateApr 18, 2002Filing dateJul 26, 2001Priority dateJan 30, 1999Also published asDE19903762C1, DE29901611U1, EP1146821A1, EP1146821B1, US6599294, WO2000044288A1Publication number09916192, 916192, US 2002/0045904 A1, US 2002/045904 A1, US 20020045904 A1, US 20020045904A1, US 2002045904 A1, US 2002045904A1, US-A1-20020045904, US-A1-2002045904, US2002/0045904A1, US2002/045904A1, US20020045904 A1, US20020045904A1, US2002045904 A1, US2002045904A1InventorsFranz Fuss, Ronald Sabitzer, Stephan EckhofOriginal AssigneeAesculap Ag & Co. KgExport CitationBiBTeX, EndNote, RefManPatent Citations (5), Referenced by (263), Classifications (40), Legal Events (5) External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, EspacenetSurgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants
US 20020045904 A1Abstract
In order, in the case of a surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants into the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebral bodies, to facilitate the introduction of the intervertebral implant even when access is difficult, it is proposed that the surgical instrument comprises two mutually opposing guide bodies, which each have a guide directed towards the other guide body and together form between them a guideway, along which an intervertebral implant is insertable laterally into the intervertebral space. Images(9) Claims(26)
What is claimed is: 1. Surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants (2) into the intervertebral space (14) between adjacent vertebral bodies (15), comprising two mutually opposing guide bodies (5), which each have a guide (10, 11) directed towards the other guide body (5) and together form between them a guideway, along which an intervertebral implant (2) is insertable laterally into the intervertebral space (14), characterized in that the guide bodies (5) are adjustable in terms of their mutual distance. 2. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the guideway in the plane of displacement extends in the shape of an arc. 3. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the space between the guide bodies (5) is open at least at one side along the guideway. 4. Surgical instrument according to claim 2, characterized in that the space between the guide bodies (5) is open at least at one side along the guideway. 5. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide bodies (5) have a free end and, there, carry extensions (13), which are placeable against vertebral bodies (15) forming the intervertebral space (14) and which are disposed next to the guideway in such a way that the intervertebral implant (2), which is fed forward along the guideway, at the end of the guideway next to the extension (13) is placeable against the adjacent vertebral bodies (15). 6. Surgical instrument according to claim 5, characterized in that the extensions (13) take the form of prongs projecting pairwise in the direction of displacement from the end of the guideway in continuation thereof. 7. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the guideway is delimited at the top and at the underside by two guide surfaces (10) and at the sides by side walls (11), which between them maintain a slot-shaped space (12) so that an intervertebral implant (2) conveyed between the guide bodies (5) is guided in the guideway even when the distance between the guide bodies (5) increases. 8. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide bodies (5) have a free end and are pivotally connected to one another at the opposite end (7) to the free end. 9. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that each guide body (5) comprises a flat bearing surface (10) for the intervertebral implant (2) and said bearing surface has laterally delimiting guide walls (11), which extend parallel to one another along the guide body (5) and project in the direction of the other guide body (5) beyond the bearing surface (10). 10. Surgical instrument according to claim 8, characterized in that each guide body (5) comprises a flat bearing surface (10) for the intervertebral implant (2) and said bearing surface has laterally delimiting guide walls (11), which extend parallel to one another along the guide body (5) and project in the direction of the other guide body (5) beyond the bearing surface (10). 11. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide bodies (5) have a free end and that the guideway at its opposite end to the free end of the guide bodies (5) exits laterally from the instrument so that an intervertebral implant (2) is insertable into the guideway there. 12. Surgical instrument according to claim 8, characterized in that both guide bodies (5) are firmly connected to gripping branches (6), which extend beyond the hinged connecting point (7) of the guide bodies (5). 13. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that on it is disposed a stop (9) for maintaining a minimum distance between the two guide bodies (5). 14. Surgical instrument according to claim 13, characterized in that the stop (9) is adjustable. 15. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that supported between the two guide bodies (5) so as to be displaceable along the guideway formed by the latter is a forward feed body (24), which comprises a releasable holding device for the intervertebral implant (2). 16. Surgical instrument according to claim 15, characterized in that the forward feed body (24) comprises a receiving space (25), which is open towards the—in forward feed direction—front end of said forward feed body, for the intervertebral implant (2). 17. Surgical instrument according to claim 16, characterized in that the receiving space (25) is delimited by two side walls (26), which extend along the guideway. 18. Surgical instrument according to claim 15, characterized in that the releasable holding device comprises elastic detent devices (27), which spring into recesses (28). 19. Surgical instrument according to claim 16, characterized in that the forward feed body (24) at its—in forward feed direction—rear end has an access opening (37) for a retaining element (36), which is placeable against the intervertebral implant 20. Surgical instrument according to claim 19, characterized in that the retaining element (36) is curved in accordance with the guideway. 21. Surgical instrument according to claim 15, characterized in that the forward feed body (24) is connected to a curved forward feed rod (29), which is displaceable along the guideway. 22. Surgical instrument according to claim 21, characterized in that the connection (33, 34) between forward feed body (24) and forward feed rod (29) is releasable. 23. Surgical instrument according to claim 21, characterized in that the forward feed rod (29) takes the form of a toothed rack, which meshes with a toothed wheel (30) rotatably supported on a guide body (5). 24. Surgical instrument according to claim 21, characterized in that the forward feed rod (29) comprises a longitudinal groove (35) for receiving and guiding a retaining element (36) for the intervertebral implant. 25. Surgical instrument according to claim 8 and intervertebral implant (2) insertable through said instrument into an intervertebral space, characterized in that the guide bodies (5) from their swivel bearing point (7) up to their free end are at a decreasing distance from one another, which at the—in forward feed direction—rear insertion end of the guideway is greater than the height of the intervertebral implant and optionally of the forward feed body (24) but at the—in forward feed direction—front outlet end of the guideway is smaller than the height of the intervertebral implant and/or of the forward feed body (24). 26. Surgical instrument according to claim 25, characterized in that the forward feed body (24) and/or the guide bodies (5) at the surfaces, which are in mutual contact, are made of a low-friction material.
[0001] The invention relates to a surgical instrument for introducing intervertebral implants into the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebral bodies. [0002] Intervertebral implants are inserted in place of a removed disk into the intervertebral space between two adjacent vertebral bodies in order to maintain the distance between the latter and to enable the two adjacent vertebral bodies to stabilize through bone fusion after removal of the disk. [0003] Introducing such an, as a rule, plate- or cage-shaped implant into the intervertebral space may be difficult because after removal of the disk the vertebral bodies are pressed towards one another by the action of the muscles. It is therefore necessary to use suitable stabilizing devices, e.g. bone plates with bone-screws, to fix the distance between the vertebral bodies. [0004] Intervertebral implants are usually inserted between the adjacent vertebral body surfaces situated ventrally of the vertebral canal and so it is customary to effect the insertion of such intervertebral implants from a ventral direction. Dorsal introduction presents serious problems. [0005] Intervertebral implants are known, which may be introduced dorsolaterally into the intervertebral space; such a vertebral body is described, for example, in DE 297 20 022 U1. In said document, however, it is not specified how, given said complicated access, the intervertebral implant is to be introduced successfully in the correct position into the intervertebral space. [0006] The object is therefore to provide a surgical instrument, which facilitates the introduction of an intervertebral implant into the intervertebral space, especially in the case of dorsolateral introduction. [0007] In a surgical instrument of the type described initially, said object is achieved according to the invention in that it comprises two mutually opposing guide bodies, which each have a guide directed towards the other guide body and together form between them a guideway, along which an intervertebral implant is insertable laterally into the intervertebral space. [0008] Such an instrument may be conveyed with the two guide bodies through the body access and into the intervertebral space so that the free end of the guide bodies extends into the intervertebral space. An intervertebral implant to be inserted into the intervertebral space may then be fed forward along the guideway thus formed until the intervertebral implant passes laterally into the intervertebral space and, there, assumes the desired position exclusively through being fed forward along the guideway. [0009] In said case, it is advantageous when the guideway in the plane of displacement extends in the shape of an arc so that the implant at the start of the guideway is introduced obliquely into the body and may then pass exactly transversely into the intervertebral space. [0010] In a particularly preferred form of construction it is provided that the space between the guide bodies is open at least at one side along the guideway. It is therefore possible to feed the intervertebral implant forward along the guideway by means of a forward feed instrument, wherein the forward feed instrument passes through the space between the guide bodies. [0011] It may further be provided that the guide bodies at their free end carry extensions, which are placeable against the vertebral bodies forming the intervertebral space and which are disposed next to the guideway in such a way that the intervertebral implant, which is fed forward along the guideway, at the end of the guideway next to the extension is placeable against the adjacent vertebral bodies. The extensions therefore position the guide bodies at the vertebral bodies forming the intervertebral space but are not situated in the guideway of the intervertebral implant, with the result that the latter in the course of forward feeding along the guideway lies at the end of the guideway next to said extensions and hence may leave the guideway and place itself directly against the adjacent vertebral bodies. [0012] In particular, the extensions may take the form of prongs projecting pairwise in the direction of displacement from the end of the guideway in continuation thereof. [0013] In a particularly preferred form of construction it is provided that the guide bodies are adjustable in terms of their mutual spacing. Thus, it is possible by means of the guide bodies, which at their free end rest against the adjacent vertebral bodies, also to spread the vertebral bodies apart so as to gain access to the intervertebral space. The guide bodies therefore perform a dual function, namely, on the one hand, the function of spreading the intervertebral space and, on the other hand, the function of guiding the intervertebral implant into the intervertebral space. [0014] In particular, the guideway may be designed in such a way that an intervertebral implant conveyed between the guide bodies is guided in the guideway even when the distance between the guide bodies increases. [0015] A particularly advantageous form of construction arises when the guide bodies at their opposite end to the free end are pivotally connected to one another so that a swivelling-open of the guide bodies then leads simultaneously to the spreading-apart of the vertebral bodies in the region of the intervertebral space. [0016] In a special form of construction it is provided that each guide body comprises a flat bearing surface for the intervertebral implant and said bearing surface has laterally delimiting walls, which extend parallel to one another along the guide body and project in the direction of the other guide body beyond the bearing surface. The guideway is therefore formed by two guide bodies, which are U-shaped in cross section and surround the intervertebral implant at the top and underside and partially at the side surfaces. [0017] It is advantageous when the guideway at its opposite end to the free end of the guide bodies exits laterally from the instrument so that an intervertebral implant is insertable into the guideway there. [0018] In a particularly preferred form of construction it is provided that between the two guide bodies along the guideway formed by the latter a forward feed body is displaceably supported, which comprises a releasable holding device for the intervertebral implant. In said form of construction, therefore, a slide-like guide body is formed on the guideway as a driver for the intervertebral implant. [0019] In said case, it is advantageous when the forward feed body comprises a receiving space, which is open towards the—in forward feed direction—front end of the forward feed body, for the intervertebral implant. The latter is accommodated in said receiving space, fed in said arrangement together with the forward feed body forward along the guideway and then, by retracting the forward feed body, released from the receiving space through the open side of the latter. [0020] The receiving space may preferably be delimited by two side walls, which extend along the guideway. [0021] In particular, it may be provided that the releasable holding device comprises elastic detent devices, which spring into recesses. The intervertebral implant is therefore held in the receiving space by a snap or detent connection, which may be released by pulling the intervertebral implant vigorously out of the receiving space. [0022] The forward feed body at its—in forward feed direction—rear end may comprise an access opening for a retaining element placeable on the intervertebral implant so that, after inserting the intervertebral implant, the latter may be retained in the attained position between the vertebral bodies by the retaining element when the forward feed body is retracted. In said case, the intervertebral implant exits from the receiving space of the forward feed body. [0023] In particular, the retaining element may be curved in accordance with the guideway. [0024] In a preferred form of construction it is provided that the forward feed body is connected to a curved forward feed rod, which is displaceable along the guideway. The connection between forward feed body and forward feed rod may in said case be releasable. [0025] It is particularly advantageous when the forward feed rod takes the form of a toothed rack, which meshes with a toothed wheel rotatably supported on a guide body. By turning the toothed wheel the surgeon may therefore displace the forward feed rod, and hence the forward feed body and the intervertebral implant held thereon, along the guideway. [0026] The forward feed rod may comprise a longitudinal groove for receiving and guiding a retaining element for the intervertebral implant. [0027] In a particularly preferred form of construction it is provided that the guide bodies from their swivel bearing point up to their free end are at a decreasing distance from one another, which at the—in forward feed direction—rear insertion end of the guideway is greater than the height of the intervertebral implant and optionally the height of the forward feed body but at the—in forward feed direction—front outlet end of the guideway is smaller than the height of the intervertebral implant and/or of the forward feed body. Thus, the forward feed body and/or the intervertebral implant in the course of being fed forward along the guideway act as spreading bodies, which swivel the two guide bodies apart and hence increase the distance between the two vertebral bodies, between which the free end of the guide bodies is inserted and between which the intervertebral implant is to be inserted. The forward feed motion itself therefore leads to the spreading of the intervertebral space so that the surgeon does not simultaneously have to effect the spreading and check the forward feed along the guideway, rather the surgeon merely has to feed the intervertebral implant forward along the forward feed path and the required distance between the adjacent vertebral bodies for introduction of the intervertebral implant then arises automatically. [0028] In said case, it is advantageous when the forward feed body and/or the guide bodies at the surfaces, which are in mutual contact, are made of a low-friction material, e.g. the appropriate surfaces may be coated with a slidable plastics material. [0029] In another form of construction of the invention it is provided that both guide bodies are firmly connected to gripping branches, which extend beyond the hinged connecting point of the guide bodies. The end result is a forceps-like instrument, in which by pressing the gripping branches towards one another the guide bodies are swivelled apart. [0030] It is advantageous when a stop for maintaining a minimum distance between the two guide bodies is disposed on the instrument, thereby ruling out the possibility of the intervertebral implant becoming jammed along its guideway. [0031] The stop may preferably be adjustable so that the minimum distance may be adapted to the size of the respective implant.
[0032] There now follows a detailed description of preferred forms of construction of the invention with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: [0033] [0033]FIG. 1: a plan view of a surgical guiding and spreading instrument with an intervertebral implant being fed forward along the guideway by means of an insertion instrument; [0034] [0034]FIG. 2: a side view in the direction of the arrow A in FIG. 1; [0035] [0035]FIG. 3: a perspective view of the surgical instrument inserted into the intervertebral space and with the intervertebral implant in the end position in the intervertebral space; [0036] [0036]FIG. 4: a perspective view of an intervertebral implant in the intervertebral space with an inserted apparatus for introducing bone material; [0037] [0037]FIG. 5: a plan view of a first preferred embodiment of an intervertebral implant with curved longitudinal sides at the end of the surgical insertion instrument; [0038] [0038]FIG. 6: a view similar to FIG. 5 having two intervertebral implants inserted adjacent to one another at the end of the surgical insertion element; [0039] [0039]FIG. 7: a view similar to FIG. 6 in the case of intervertebral implants having, a rectangular cross section; [0040] [0040]FIG. 8: a plan view of a further preferred form of construction of a surgical guiding and spreading instrument with the top guide body removed; [0041] [0041]FIG. 9: a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 8 with the top guide body removed; [0042] [0042]FIG. 10: a view similar to FIG. 9 with mounted top guide body and inserted retaining element, and [0043] [0043]FIG. 11: a view similar to FIG. 8 with fully inserted forward feed body and fully inserted retaining element.
[0044] The instrument 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 for introducing an intervertebral implant 2 is designed in the manner of forceps and comprises two arms 3, 4, which are substantially identical in construction. Each arm comprises a flat guide body 5 and an adjoining gripping part 6 extending laterally out of the plane of the guide body 5, both arms 3, 4 are pivotally connected to one another in the transition region between the guide bodies 5 and the gripping parts 6 by a hinge 7 in such a way that, when the gripping parts 6 are pressed towards one another, the guide bodies 5 are swivelled apart from one another. [0045] Disposed between the gripping parts 6 are spring elements 8, which spread the gripping parts 6 apart from one another, and one of the gripping parts 6 is penetrated by a spindle 9, which may be screwed in to a greater or lesser degree in the direction of the other gripping part 6 and forms a stop, by means of which the approach of the two gripping parts 6 may be limited. [0046] The two guide bodies 5 are U-shaped in cross section and comprise a mutually opposing flat guide surface 10 laterally delimited by side walls 11, which extend over the entire length of the guide surface 10, project in the direction of the other guide body and also, when the guide bodies 5 have approached one another to the maximum extent, between them maintain a slot-shaped space 12 (FIG. 2). The two guide bodies 5 therefore form between them a guideway, which is delimited at the top and at the underside by the two guide surfaces 10 and at the sides by the side walls 11. [0047] The guide bodies 5 are of a curved design in the plane defined by the guide surface 10, e.g. said curve extends over an angle of 90�, so that the guideway is also curved (FIG. 1). In said case, the guideway at its end lying near the hinge 7 may exit laterally from the guide bodies 5 so that, at said point, an intervertebral implant 2 may be inserted into the guideway (FIG. 1). [0048] At the free end of the guide surfaces 10 the side walls 11 continue further in extension of the guide surfaces 10 and therefore form extensions 13, which extend pairwise alongside one another and might also be described as prongs. [0049] As a result, there is still lateral guidance of intervertebral implants fed forward along the guideway; since the guide surfaces 10 however terminate sooner and there is no longer guidance in an upward and downward direction, in the region between the extensions 13 windows are practically formed, through which implants fed forward along the guideway and up to the end thereof may exit in an upward or downward direction from the guideway. [0050] To insert an intervertebral implant 2, the described implant 1 with the guide bodies 5 is introduced through a body access as far as into the intervertebral space 14 between two adjacent vertebral bodies 15, namely in such a way that the prong-shaped extensions 13 pass laterally into the intervertebral space, and indeed directly adjacent to and ventrally of the vertebral canal 16. The guide surfaces 10 terminate in said case shortly before entry into the intervertebral space 14, while the prong-shaped extensions 13 extend fully into the intervertebral space 14. [0051] After the extensions 13 have been introduced into the intervertebral space 14, the guide bodies 5 are spread apart by means of the gripping parts 6, thereby also increasing the distance between the vertebral bodies 15, i.e. widening the intervertebral space 14. [0052] An intervertebral implant 2, which is to be inserted into the intervertebral space 14 and may, for example, take the form of an elongate plate, is then inserted along the guideway formed by the guide bodies 5 and into the intervertebral space 14. [0053] To said end, the plate-shaped intervertebral implant 2 is connected to the thin flexible shank 17 of an insertion instrument 18, e.g. by screwing the flexible shank 17 into an internal thread of the intervertebral implant. [0054] By means of said insertion instrument 18 the intervertebral implant 2 is displaced along the guideway until it is situated in the intervertebral space 14 between the prong-shaped extensions 13 and hence has reached the end of the guideway. Forward feeding is easily possible because the adjacent vertebral bodies 15 are held an adequate distance apart by the guide bodies 5. [0055] As soon as the intervertebral implant 2 has reached its position between the prong-shaped extensions 13, it falls out of the guideway formed by the guide bodies 5 and places itself against the adjacent vertebral bodies. The surgeon may then ease off the pressure on the gripping parts 6 of the instrument 1 and hence end the spreading of the intervertebral space 14 so that the vertebral bodies 15 move towards one another and come to rest against the intervertebral implant 2 on both sides. The instrument 1 may then be withdrawn without difficulty from the intervertebral space 14 and from the body. [0056] During insertion of the implant it is advantageous that the shank 17 of the insertion instrument 18 need not necessarily be disposed along the guideway but may exit laterally from the guideway since the shank 17 passes through the space 12 between the guide bodies 5. [0057] As soon as the intervertebral implant 2 has been inserted in the described manner into the intervertebral space 14, the insertion instrument 18 may also be removed, e.g. by screwing the shank 17 out of the screw-in thread. [0058] Through suitable introduction channels in the intervertebral implant 2 bone material may be introduced into the part of the intervertebral space 14 not filled by the intervertebral implant 2 and, optionally, into holes 19 in the intervertebral implant 2. This may be effected with the aid of a filling instrument 20, which comprises a filling tube 21, into which bone material may be introduced. By means of a plunger 22 the bone material may be pushed out of the filling tube 21 at the free end thereof. When the free end of said filling tube 21 is applied to the described introduction channel of the intervertebral implant 2, bone material passes through said introduction channel and into the holes 19 of the intervertebral implant 2 and through the entire intervertebral implant 2 into the part of the intervertebral space 14 disposed ventrally of the intervertebral implant 2, so that a bed of bony substance is formed very effectively around the intervertebral implant 2. [0059] The shape of the intervertebral implant 2 may in said case differ widely. In the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3 an intervertebral implant 2 is shown, which is elongate and slightly curved and is narrower in the middle region than in the end region. In said middle region the implant is recessed at its ventral longitudinal side so as to form there a receiving space for bone material which, once the intervertebral implant 2 is inserted, leads to a positive embedding of the intervertebral implant 2 in the intervertebral space 14. [0060] A similarly shaped implant without such recessing is shown in FIG. 5. [0061] In the embodiment of FIG. 6, instead of one intervertebral implant 2 two intervertebral implants 2 are inserted at a distance from one another, said insertion being effected in successive insertion operations exactly in the same manner as has been described for the implant of FIGS. 1 to 3. The implants 2 of FIG. 6 have a substantially oval or elliptical cross section, in the embodiment of FIG. 7 two implants having a substantially rectangular cross section are provided, which are also inserted in a similar manner. [0062] FIGS. 8 to 11 show a further preferred embodiment of an instrument 1, which is of a similar construction to the instrument of FIGS. 1 to 3, for which reason parts corresponding to one another bear the same reference characters. [0063] In said embodiment, unlike the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, the guide bodies are not provided with branch-like gripping parts 6 and so the instrument does not have the configuration of forceps. Rather, the two guide bodies 5 are connected to one another likewise via a hinge 7 and terminate at said hinge 7, wherein one of the two guide bodies 5 in said case carries a handle 23. Alternatively, it might be provided that one of the two branch-like gripping parts 6 in the region of the hinge 7 is of a removable design and the remaining gripping part is used as a handle. [0064] Given such a construction of the instrument, the spreading is effected not by pressing branch-like gripping parts together but exclusively in that the parts, which are fed forward along the guideway, in the course of forward feeding push the guide bodies 5 apart from one another and so the free ends of the latter, which engage between the vertebral bodies 15, increase the distance between the vertebral bodies 15. To said end, the guide bodies 5 are designed in such a way that at the insertion end they are at a distance from one another, which is greater than the height of the parts fed forward between the guide bodies 5, but at the outlet end of the guide bodies 5 are a smaller distance apart. Thus, the unspread guide bodies 5 may pass with their free end into the unwidened intervertebral space, the parts fed forward between the guide bodies may easily be inserted at the insertion end, and it is only by virtue of the forward feed motion of the forward fed parts itself that the spreading-apart of the guide bodies 5 and hence the widening of the intervertebral space 14 is effected. [0065] The parts fed forward between the guide bodies 5 may be formed quite simply by the intervertebral implant 2 itself, although it is advantageous when—as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 8 to 11—between the guide bodies 5 a special forward feed body 24 is supported so as to be displaceable along the guideway, which forward feed body rests against the two guide bodies 5 and effects said spreading. The forward feed body 24 is of an elongate design and rests on both sides against the side walls 11 of the guide bodies 5 so that it is guided precisely along the guideway. It comprises an elongate receiving space 25, which is formed by the side walls 26 of the forward feed body 24, which extend substantially parallel to one another, and is open at the top and at the underside as well as at the—in forward feed direction—front end. The intervertebral implant 2 is inserted from the open side into said receiving space 25 between the side walls 26 and is held in the inserted position by elastic detent tongues 27, which are incorporated in the side walls 26 of the forward feed body 24 and engage elastically into lateral recesses 28 of the intervertebral implant 2 (FIG. 11). [0066] In the embodiment illustrated in the drawings, the height of the intervertebral implant 2 is equal to the height of the forward feed body 24, in which case intervertebral implant and forward feed body in the course of being fed forward along the guideway jointly spread the guide bodies 5 apart. The intervertebral implant might alternatively be of a slightly smaller height than the forward feed body, in which case the spreading would be effected exclusively by the forward feed body. [0067] The forward feed body 24 is connected to a curved toothed rack 29, which is guided in one of the two guide bodies 5 and meshes with a toothed wheel 30, which is rotatably supported on one of the guide bodies 5 and is rotatable via a turning handle 31 so that the toothed rack 29 may be pushed forward and back along the guideway. Said connection between forward feed body 24 and toothed rack 29 is releasable, in the illustrated embodiment the forward feed body 24 carries on each of two projecting lugs 32 a vertically downward projecting pin 33, which is insertable into a bore 34 at the end of the toothed rack 29. [0068] Disposed in the top of the toothed rack 29 is an upwardly open longitudinal central groove 35, in which a curved, rod-shaped retaining element 36 is feedable in forward direction. The front end of the longitudinal central groove 35 communicates with an opening 37 in the forward feed body 24, through which opening 37 the retaining element 36 may be fed forward into the receiving space 25 and, there, apply itself against the intervertebral implant 2 held in the receiving space 25 (FIG. 11). [0069] To insert the intervertebral implant 2, the latter is pushed into the receiving space 25 until the detent tongues 27 snap into the recesses 28. The forward feed body 24 may then be pushed in at the insertion end between the guide bodies 5 and connected to the toothed rack 29, which is likewise partially inserted between the guide bodies, by inserting the pins 33 into the bores 34. [0070] Said insertion of the forward feed body 24 and of the toothed rack 28 may already be effected prior to insertion of the instrument into the body but it will be advantageous first to introduce the empty instrument 1 into the body until the free end of the guide bodies passes into the intervertebral space 14, into which the intervertebral implant 2 is to be inserted. [0071] By turning the toothed wheel 30 the toothed rack 29 is fed forward between the guide bodies and therefore gradually feeds the forward feed body 24 with the intervertebral implant 2 forward into the intervertebral space 14, which is widened as a result of the guide bodies 5 being spread in the course of said forward feed motion. [0072] As soon as the intervertebral implant 2 is situated in the end position in the intervertebral space 14, the retaining element 36 is inserted until it comes to rest against the intervertebral implant 2. The depth of insertion of the retaining element 36 may in said case be limited by a stop formed, for example, by a laterally bent portion 38 of the retaining element 36 which comes into abutment with the guide body 5 (FIG. 11). When the forward feed body 24 and the toothed rack 29 are retracted, the elastic detent connection between the detent tongues 27 and the recesses 28 is thereby released because the intervertebral implant 2 is retained in the intervertebral space 14 by the retaining element 36. To said end, the retaining element 36 is detachably fastenable to the guide body 5 by means not illustrated in the drawing. In said manner, forward feed body 24, toothed rack 29 and subsequently also the retaining element 36 may be withdrawn from the instrument 1, wherein the spreading of the vertebral bodies 15, which delimit the intervertebral space 14, is cancelled, the vertebral bodies 15 are then supported on the intervertebral implant 2 and the instrument may then be withdrawn entirely from the intervertebral space 14. Patent CitationsCited PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS3744481 *May 18, 1971Jul 10, 1973Mcdonald BMedical examining method and meansUS4356821 *Sep 17, 1980Nov 2, 1982Bruce RindAirwayUS4697586 *Jun 24, 1986Oct 6, 1987Gazale William JCombined chisel-guide surgical instrumentUS5716416 *Sep 10, 1996Feb 10, 1998Lin; Chih-IArtificial intervertebral disk and method for implanting the sameUS5928139 *Jul 8, 1998Jul 27, 1999Koros; Tibor B.Retractor with adjustable length blades and light pipe guides* Cited by examinerReferenced byCiting PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS6530929Jul 14, 2000Mar 11, 2003Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Instruments for stabilization of bony structuresUS6749614Oct 10, 2001Jun 15, 2004Vertelink CorporationFormable orthopedic fixation system with cross linkingUS6764491May 15, 2001Jul 20, 2004Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS6821277Dec 21, 2000Nov 23, 2004University Of Southern California Patent And Copyright AdministrationPercutaneous vertebral fusion systemUS6830570Oct 23, 2000Dec 14, 2004Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7008422Oct 3, 2002Mar 7, 2006Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7011660May 22, 2003Mar 14, 2006Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7037339 *Sep 27, 2002May 2, 2006Zimmer Spine, Inc.Modular spinal fusion deviceUS7060073Apr 10, 2002Jun 13, 2006Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7188626Apr 19, 2002Mar 13, 2007Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7235081 *Apr 29, 2003Jun 26, 2007Spinecore, Inc.Wedge plate inserter/impactor and related methods for use in implanting an artificial intervertebral discUS7252673Sep 10, 2003Aug 7, 2007Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and methods for inserting spinal implantsUS7341587Nov 20, 2003Mar 11, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Methods and devices for inserting and engaging vertebral implants in minimally invasive proceduresUS7361193Nov 25, 2003Apr 22, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7442211May 26, 2004Oct 28, 2008Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic discUS7455685Sep 29, 2003Nov 25, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for securing a connecting element along a bony segmentUS7465306Aug 13, 2004Dec 16, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.System and method for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive proceduresUS7481812May 26, 2006Jan 27, 2009Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7491208Apr 28, 2005Feb 17, 2009Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instrument and method for guiding surgical implants and instruments during surgeryUS7503935 *Nov 5, 2004Mar 17, 2009Kyphon SarlMethod of laterally inserting an artificial vertebral disk replacement with translating pivot pointUS7531001Mar 18, 2005May 12, 2009Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS7563281Apr 3, 2003Jul 21, 2009Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Apparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesUS7575599Jul 30, 2004Aug 18, 2009Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with metallic coreUS7625380 *Dec 1, 2009Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Dual distractor inserterUS7686809Mar 30, 2010Stryker SpineRod inserter and rod with reduced diameter endUS7695475Apr 13, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments for minimally invasive stabilization of bony structuresUS7708743Apr 29, 2005May 4, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Apparatus and method for positioning an implant during surgeryUS7708780Nov 19, 2004May 4, 2010Spinecore, Inc.Instrumentation and methods for use in implanting a cervical disc replacement deviceUS7713302Apr 28, 2004May 11, 2010Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral spacer device utilizing a spirally slotted belleville washer having radially spaced concentric groovesUS7717944Aug 20, 2004May 18, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7727262Jun 14, 2005Jun 1, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Formed in place fixation system with thermal accelerationUS7731754Aug 30, 2006Jun 8, 2010Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS7736371 *Jan 26, 2007Jun 15, 2010Stryker Leibinger Gmbh & Co. KgTrajectory guideUS7753956May 26, 2004Jul 13, 2010Spinalmotion, Inc.Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertionUS7763055Jul 27, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7771432 *Aug 10, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Insertion device and techniques for orthopaedic implantsUS7771476Aug 10, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic Inc.Curable orthopedic implant devices configured to harden after placement in vivo by application of a cure-initiating energy before insertionUS7771477Aug 10, 2010Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral spacer device utilizing a belleville washer having radially spaced concentric groovesUS7780705Jun 14, 2005Aug 24, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Formed in place fixation system with thermal accelerationUS7806895 *May 7, 2007Oct 5, 2010Device Evolutions LlcThoracic closure device and methodsUS7824410Aug 10, 2004Nov 2, 2010Depuy Spine, Inc.Instruments and methods for minimally invasive spine surgeryUS7833249Nov 16, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Formable orthopedic fixation systemUS7857818 *Mar 30, 2007Dec 28, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Method and apparatus for delivering an intervertebral disc implantUS7862595Jan 23, 2007Jan 4, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7862618Jul 19, 2006Jan 4, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Expandable vertebral body implants and methods of useUS7867259Jan 11, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS7875079Dec 14, 2006Jan 25, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Vertebral implant containment device and methods of useUS7935124May 3, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7935148May 3, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Adjustable insertion device for a vertebral implantUS7951154May 31, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Insertion device and techniques for orthopaedic implantsUS7955355Jun 7, 2011Stryker SpineMethods and devices for improving percutaneous access in minimally invasive surgeriesUS7959564 *Jun 14, 2011Stephen RitlandPedicle seeker and retractor, and methods of useUS7967863Jun 28, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS7998215Dec 12, 2008Aug 16, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS8002798Aug 23, 2011Stryker SpineSystem and method for spinal implant placementUS8002834Apr 28, 2009Aug 23, 2011Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with metallic coreUS8012213Sep 6, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Apparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesUS8016829Feb 9, 2005Sep 13, 2011Depuy Spine, Inc.Systems and methods for spinal surgeryUS8029568Jul 2, 2010Oct 4, 2011Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral spacer device having a slotted partial circular domed arch strip springUS8062371Nov 22, 2011Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with metallic coreUS8070751Mar 2, 2010Dec 6, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, IncInstruments for minimally invasive stabilization of bony structuresUS8070754 *May 31, 2007Dec 6, 2011Fabian Henry FSpine surgery method and instrumentationUS8083774Oct 17, 2003Dec 27, 2011Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Percutaneous vertebral fusion systemUS8083797Dec 27, 2011Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with shock absorptionUS8090428Jan 3, 2012Spinalmotion, Inc.Spinal midline indicatorUS8092538Jan 10, 2012Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic discUS8092539Jan 10, 2012Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral spacer device having a belleville washer with concentric groovesUS8109979Dec 9, 2009Feb 7, 2012Spinecore, Inc.Instrumentation and methods for use in implanting a cervical disc replacement deviceUS8172855Nov 23, 2005May 8, 2012Abdou M SDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS8192437 *Jun 5, 2012Depuy Spine, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS8206447Jun 26, 2012Spinalmotion, Inc.Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertionUS8206449Jul 16, 2009Jun 26, 2012Spinalmotion, Inc.Artificial intervertebral disc placement systemUS8231628Jul 31, 2012Spinecore, Inc.Instrumentation and methods for use in implanting a cervical disc replacement deviceUS8235999May 10, 2010Aug 7, 2012Depuy Spine, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS8262571May 24, 2004Sep 11, 2012Stephen RitlandIntermuscular guide for retractor insertion and method of useUS8262732May 30, 2008Sep 11, 2012Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS8277507May 28, 2010Oct 2, 2012Spinecore, Inc.Spacerless artificial disc replacementsUS8292896 *Oct 23, 2012Abdou M SamyDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS8303630Nov 6, 2012Samy AbdouDevices and methods for the minimally invasive treatment of spinal stenosisUS8337556Dec 25, 2012Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Curable media for implantable medical deviceUS8361124Jan 24, 2006Jan 29, 2013Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS8361151Jun 14, 2012Jan 29, 2013Depuy Spine, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS8398712Mar 19, 2013Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with shock absorptionUS8435301Sep 16, 2011May 7, 2013DePuy Synthes Products, LLCArtificial intervertebral disc implantUS8444678May 21, 2013Depuy Spine, Inc.Instruments and methods for minimally invasive spine surgeryUS8444695May 21, 2013Spinalmotion, Inc.Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertionUS8454621 *Jun 4, 2013Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for spinal implant revisionUS8454698Jun 4, 2013Spinalmotion, Inc.Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertionUS8470041Oct 3, 2011Jun 25, 2013Spinecore, Inc.Two-component artificial disc replacementsUS8480718Dec 21, 2006Jul 9, 2013Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Curable orthopedic implant devices configured to be hardened after placement in vivoUS8486147Feb 4, 2008Jul 16, 2013Spinalmotion, Inc.Posterior spinal device and methodUS8491654Jul 14, 2011Jul 23, 2013Warsaw Orthopedic Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS8506631 *Sep 15, 2010Aug 13, 2013Spinalmotion, Inc.Customized intervertebral prosthetic disc with shock absorptionUS8556905Dec 27, 2012Oct 15, 2013Depuy Spine, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS8579911Jan 16, 2009Nov 12, 2013Spinecore, Inc.Instruments and methods for inserting artificial intervertebral implantsUS8579977Apr 17, 2012Nov 12, 2013Henry F. FabianSpine surgery method and inserterUS8613769May 4, 2011Dec 24, 2013Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Apparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesUS8636805May 21, 2012Jan 28, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Artificial intervertebral disc placement systemUS8652143 *Aug 20, 2007Feb 18, 2014Custom Spine, Inc.Inserter device used for orthopedic surgeryUS8663328Dec 21, 2006Mar 4, 2014Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Methods for positioning a load-bearing component of an orthopedic implant device by inserting a malleable device that hardens in vivoUS8673013 *Oct 22, 2012Mar 18, 2014Samy AbdouDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS8679182Aug 29, 2012Mar 25, 2014Spinecore, Inc.Spacerless artificial disc replacementsUS8685035Jul 21, 2005Apr 1, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesis placement instrumentUS8685063May 4, 2011Apr 1, 2014Stryker SpineMethods and devices for improving percutaneous access in minimally invasive surgeriesUS8696681 *Sep 29, 2006Apr 15, 2014K2M, Inc.Adjustable interbody introducer device and methodUS8721685Jan 24, 2006May 13, 2014Kevin T. FoleyInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS8734519Apr 12, 2007May 27, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Posterior spinal device and methodUS8758358Oct 12, 2004Jun 24, 2014Spinecore, Inc.Instrumentation for repositioning and extraction an artificial intervertebral disc from an intervertebral spaceUS8758359 *May 14, 2007Jun 24, 2014Ethicon, Inc.Instruments for implanting implantable prosthesesUS8758407Dec 21, 2006Jun 24, 2014Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Methods for positioning a load-bearing orthopedic implant device in vivoUS8758441Oct 22, 2008Jun 24, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Vertebral body replacement and method for spanning a space formed upon removal of a vertebral bodyUS8764833Mar 9, 2009Jul 1, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Artificial intervertebral disc with lower heightUS8771318Feb 12, 2010Jul 8, 2014Stryker SpineRod inserter and rod with reduced diameter endUS8771356Sep 14, 2012Jul 8, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic discUS8777959May 24, 2006Jul 15, 2014Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral disc and insertion methods thereforUS8795335Nov 5, 2010Aug 5, 2014Samy AbdouSpinal fixation devices and methods of useUS8801789Jun 14, 2013Aug 12, 2014Spinecore, Inc.Two-component artificial disc replacementsUS8801792Jul 22, 2010Aug 12, 2014Spinalmotion, Inc.Posterio spinal device and methodUS8845649May 13, 2009Sep 30, 2014Roger P. JacksonSpinal fixation tool set and method for rod reduction and fastener insertionUS8845729Nov 25, 2009Sep 30, 2014Simplify Medical, Inc.Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertionUS8845730Jul 16, 2009Sep 30, 2014Simplify Medical, Inc.Posterior prosthetic intervertebral discUS8852244Sep 13, 2013Oct 7, 2014DePuy Synthes Products, LLCConfigured and sized cannulaUS8870920Oct 6, 2006Oct 28, 2014M. Samy AbdouDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS8894655Sep 25, 2006Nov 25, 2014Stryker SpineRod contouring apparatus and method for percutaneous pedicle screw extensionUS8894657Nov 28, 2011Nov 25, 2014Roger P. JacksonTool system for dynamic spinal implantsUS8900275Nov 9, 2012Dec 2, 2014Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS8961524Dec 29, 2010Feb 24, 2015Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS8974461 *May 7, 2012Mar 10, 2015M. Samy AbdouDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS8974531Dec 30, 2009Mar 10, 2015Simplify Medical, Inc.Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertionUS8974533Jan 8, 2014Mar 10, 2015Simplify Medical, Inc.Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertionUS8979848Sep 25, 2007Mar 17, 2015Stryker SpineForce limiting persuader-reducerUS8979851Sep 25, 2013Mar 17, 2015Stryker SpineRod contouring apparatus for percutaneous pedicle screw extensionUS9011544Aug 17, 2010Apr 21, 2015Simplify Medical, Inc.Polyaryletherketone artificial intervertebral discUS9028551Sep 2, 2014May 12, 2015DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS9034038Apr 7, 2009May 19, 2015Spinalmotion, Inc.Motion limiting insert for an artificial intervertebral discUS9050139Mar 15, 2013Jun 9, 2015Roger P. JacksonOrthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and methodUS9050148Nov 10, 2005Jun 9, 2015Roger P. JacksonSpinal fixation tool attachment structureUS9055978Oct 2, 2012Jun 16, 2015Roger P. JacksonOrthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and methodUS9060873Jan 4, 2010Jun 23, 2015M. Samy AbdouBone fixation and fusion deviceUS9079550Oct 10, 2011Jul 14, 2015Vertebration, Inc.Spine surgery method and instrumentationUS9095451Jan 13, 2014Aug 4, 2015Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral disc and insertion methods thereforUS9107649May 17, 2011Aug 18, 2015Warsaw Orothpedic, Inc.Devices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS9107762Nov 3, 2011Aug 18, 2015Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthetic disc with metallic coreUS9119684Sep 25, 2013Sep 1, 2015Stryker SpineRod contouring method for percutaneous pedicle screw extensionUS9180024Jul 19, 2011Nov 10, 2015Medos International SarlSystems and methods for spinal surgeryUS9198773Jan 31, 2014Dec 1, 2015Spinecore, Inc.Spacerless artificial disc replacementsUS9211150Sep 23, 2010Dec 15, 2015Roger P. JacksonSpinal fixation tool set and methodUS9216039Nov 19, 2010Dec 22, 2015Roger P. JacksonDynamic spinal stabilization assemblies, tool set and methodUS9220603Jul 1, 2009Dec 29, 2015Simplify Medical, Inc.Limited motion prosthetic intervertebral discUS9226782May 8, 2013Jan 5, 2016DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Instruments and methods for minimally invasive spine surgeryUS9226837 *Jun 22, 2015Jan 5, 2016Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral disc and insertion methods thereforUS9247977Dec 15, 2008Feb 2, 2016Stryker European Holdings I, LlcRod contouring apparatus for percutaneous pedicle screw extensionUS9320614May 28, 2015Apr 26, 2016DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Spinal fusion implantUS20020198526 *May 31, 2002Dec 26, 2002Shaolian Samuel M.Formed in place fixation system with thermal accelerationUS20030078661 *Sep 27, 2002Apr 24, 2003Houfburg Rodney L.Modular spinal fusion deviceUS20030229347 *May 22, 2003Dec 11, 2003Sherman Michael C.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20040082954 *Oct 20, 2003Apr 29, 2004Teitelbaum George P.Formable orthopedic fixation system with cross linkingUS20040082961 *Oct 17, 2003Apr 29, 2004Teitelbaum George P.Percutaneous vertebral fusion systemUS20040087950 *Oct 17, 2003May 6, 2004Teitelbaum George P.Percutaneous vertebral fusion systemUS20040186574 *Mar 31, 2004Sep 23, 2004Ortho Development CorporationIntervertebral spacing implant systemUS20040186575 *Mar 31, 2004Sep 23, 2004Ortho Development CorporationMethod of implanting an intervertebral spacerUS20040199252 *Apr 3, 2003Oct 7, 2004William SearsApparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesUS20040204762 *Apr 28, 2004Oct 14, 2004Ralph James D.Intervertebral spacer device utilizing a spirally slotted belleville washer having radially spaced concentric groovesUS20040215193 *May 26, 2004Oct 28, 2004Shaolian Samuel M.Formable orthopedic fixation systemUS20050004593 *Jul 26, 2004Jan 6, 2005Depuy Spine, Inc.Non cannulated dilatorsUS20050021031 *Aug 20, 2004Jan 27, 2005Foley Kevin T.Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20050038445 *Oct 12, 2004Feb 17, 2005Errico Joseph P.Instrumentation for repositioning and extracting an artificial intervertebral disc from an intervertebral spaceUS20050055031 *Sep 10, 2003Mar 10, 2005Roy LimDevices and methods for inserting spinal implantsUS20050065517 *Jun 15, 2004Mar 24, 2005Chin Kingsley RichardMethods and devices for improving percutaneous access in minimally invasive surgeriesUS20050070917 *Sep 29, 2003Mar 31, 2005Justis Jeff R.Instruments and methods for securing a connecting element along a bony segmentUS20050075643 *Oct 7, 2003Apr 7, 2005Schwab Frank J.Insertion device and techniques for orthopaedic implantsUS20050080418 *Aug 10, 2004Apr 14, 2005Simonson Robert E.Instruments and methods for minimally invasive spine surgeryUS20050113832 *Nov 20, 2003May 26, 2005Molz Fred J.IvMethods and devices for inserting and engaging vertebral implants in minimally invasive proceduresUS20050124999 *Nov 1, 2004Jun 9, 2005Teitelbaum George P.Device and method for radial delivery of a structural elementUS20050143820 *Nov 5, 2004Jun 30, 2005St. Francis Medical Technologies, Inc.Method of laterally inserting an artificial vertebral disk replacement implant with translating pivot pointUS20050149022 *Feb 11, 2005Jul 7, 2005Shaolian Samuel M.Curable media for implantable medical deviceUS20050197702 *Feb 11, 2005Sep 8, 2005Coppes Justin K.Intervertebral disc implantUS20050216002 *Jan 6, 2005Sep 29, 2005Depuy Spine, Inc.Configured and sized cannulaUS20050234453 *Jun 14, 2005Oct 20, 2005Shaolian Samuel MFormed in place fixation system with thermal accelerationUS20050251140 *Jun 14, 2005Nov 10, 2005Shaolian Samuel MFormed in place fixation system with thermal accelerationUS20050251262 *Mar 18, 2005Nov 10, 2005Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS20050261692 *May 21, 2004Nov 24, 2005Scimed Life Systems, Inc.Articulating tissue removal probe and methods of using the sameUS20060030856 *Jul 21, 2004Feb 9, 2006Sdgi Holding, Inc.Dual distractor inserterUS20060030857 *Aug 6, 2004Feb 9, 2006Spinalmotion, Inc.Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertionUS20060036255 *Aug 13, 2004Feb 16, 2006Pond John D JrSystem and method for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive proceduresUS20060038946 *Oct 24, 2005Feb 23, 2006Sharp Kabushiki KaishaLiquid crystal display device and method of manufacturing the sameUS20060111714 *Jan 3, 2006May 25, 2006Foley Kevin TInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20060111727 *Sep 16, 2003May 25, 2006Martin PfleidererDevice for delivering a surgical implantUS20060149278 *Nov 23, 2005Jul 6, 2006Abdou Amy MDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS20060200135 *Jan 24, 2006Sep 7, 2006Sherman Michael CInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20060212119 *Jan 6, 2006Sep 21, 2006Varga Peter PIntervertebral spacerUS20060253120 *Apr 29, 2005Nov 9, 2006Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Apparatus and method for positioning an implant during surgeryUS20060264968 *May 26, 2006Nov 23, 2006George FreyDevices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS20060293750 *Jun 3, 2005Dec 28, 2006Sherman Michael CFormed in place corpectomy deviceUS20060293754 *Aug 30, 2006Dec 28, 2006Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral ProsthesisUS20070049931 *Aug 26, 2005Mar 1, 2007Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Instruments for minimally invasive stabilization of bony structuresUS20070061011 *Aug 30, 2006Mar 15, 2007Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral ProsthesisUS20070093828 *Oct 6, 2006Apr 26, 2007Abdou M SDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS20070093850 *Sep 29, 2006Apr 26, 2007Harris Peter MAdjustable interbody introducer device and methodUS20070161962 *Jan 9, 2006Jul 12, 2007Edie Jason ADevice and method for moving fill material to an implantUS20070162129 *Jan 9, 2006Jul 12, 2007Edie Jason AAdjustable insertion device for a vertebral implantUS20070185491 *Jan 23, 2007Aug 9, 2007Foley Kevin TInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20070191861 *Jan 30, 2006Aug 16, 2007Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Instruments and methods for implanting nucleus replacement material in an intervertebral disc nucleus spaceUS20070198015 *Jan 23, 2007Aug 23, 2007Foley Kevin TInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20070198025 *Mar 30, 2007Aug 23, 2007Trieu Hai HMethod and apparatus for delivering an intervertebral disc implantUS20070260251 *May 7, 2007Nov 8, 2007Surgical Transformations, LlcThoracic Closure Device and MethodsUS20070276406 *Feb 9, 2005Nov 29, 2007Depuy Spine, IncSystems and Methods for Spinal SurgeryUS20080009678 *Jul 9, 2007Jan 10, 2008Stephen RitlandPedicle Seeker and Retractor, and Methods of UseUS20080021555 *Jul 19, 2006Jan 24, 2008John WhiteExpandable vertebral body implants and methods of useUS20080077136 *Jan 9, 2007Mar 27, 2008Stryker SpineRod inserter and rod with reduced diameter endUS20080082172 *May 9, 2007Apr 3, 2008Jackson Roger PInterspinous process spacerUS20080097454 *Sep 19, 2006Apr 24, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic Inc.Instruments and methods for spinal implant revisionUS20080103596 *Dec 28, 2004May 1, 2008Takiron Co., LtdArtificial-Intervertebral-Disk Insertion Jigs, Jig Set, And Artificial Intervertebral DiskUS20080125864 *Feb 4, 2008May 29, 2008Spinalmotion, Inc.Posterior Spinal Device and MethodUS20080133011 *Feb 13, 2008Jun 5, 2008Spinalmotion, Inc.Prosthetic Disc for Intervertebral InsertionUS20080154266 *Dec 21, 2006Jun 26, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Methods for positioning a load-bearing orthopedic implant device in vivoUS20080154367 *Dec 21, 2006Jun 26, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Methods for positioning a load-bearing component of an orthopedic implant device by inserting a malleable device that hardens in vivoUS20080154373 *Dec 21, 2006Jun 26, 2008Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Curable orthopedic implant devices configured to be hardened after placement in vivoUS20080183191 *Jan 26, 2007Jul 31, 2008Hans SchoeppTrajectory guideUS20080221626 *Sep 25, 2007Sep 11, 2008Stryker SpineForce limiting persuader-reducerUS20080228277 *Oct 31, 2007Sep 18, 2008Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS20080287956 *May 14, 2007Nov 20, 2008Smith Daniel JInstruments for implanting implantable prosthesesUS20080294259 *Oct 31, 2007Nov 27, 2008Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesisUS20080300601 *May 31, 2007Dec 4, 2008Fabian Henry FSpine surgery method and instrumentationUS20090054901 *Aug 20, 2007Feb 26, 2009Oh YounghoonInserter device used for orthopedic surgeryUS20090076614 *Sep 10, 2008Mar 19, 2009Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral Prosthetic Disc with Shock Absorption CoreUS20090099605 *Dec 15, 2008Apr 16, 2009Stryker SpineRod contouring apparatus for percutaneous pedicle screw extensionUS20090105836 *Dec 12, 2008Apr 23, 2009George FreyDevices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS20090177285 *Dec 12, 2008Jul 9, 2009George FreyDevices and techniques for a posterior lateral disc space approachUS20090228055 *May 13, 2009Sep 10, 2009Jackson Roger PSpinal fixation tool set and method for rod reduction and fastener insertionUS20090234458 *Mar 9, 2009Sep 17, 2009Spinalmotion, Inc.Artificial Intervertebral Disc With Lower HeightUS20100004657 *Jan 7, 2010Spinecore, Inc.Instruments and methods for inserting artificial intervertebral implantsUS20100016906 *Jan 21, 2010Abdou M SamyDevice and method to access the anterior column of the spineUS20100069929 *Aug 20, 2009Mar 18, 2010Abdou M SDevices and methods for the preservation of spinal prosthesis functionUS20100106250 *Jan 4, 2010Apr 29, 2010Abdou M SamyBone fixation and fusion deviceUS20100145389 *Feb 12, 2010Jun 10, 2010Stryker SpineRod inserter and rod with reduced diameter endUS20100160982 *Mar 2, 2010Jun 24, 2010Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Instruments for Minimally Invasive Stabilization of Bony StructuresUS20100179419 *Mar 25, 2010Jul 15, 2010Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral ProsthesisUS20100211177 *Aug 19, 2010Abdou M SamyDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS20100222784 *May 7, 2010Sep 2, 2010Schwab Frank JInsertion device and techniques for orthopaedic implantsUS20110004313 *Jan 6, 2011Spinalmotion, Inc.Customized Intervertebral Prosthetic Disc With Shock AbsorptionUS20110040333 *Feb 17, 2011Simonson Robert EInstruments and Methods for Minimally Invasive Spine SurgeryUS20110106187 *Dec 29, 2010May 5, 2011Foley Kevin TInstruments and methods for stabilization of bony structuresUS20110112586 *Nov 10, 2010May 12, 2011Jeffrey Allen GuyerMethods and devices for portal fixation to the spineUS20110208314 *Aug 25, 2011William SearsApparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesUS20110288646 *Nov 24, 2011Nathan MoskowitzArtificial total lumbar disc for unilateral safe and simple posterior placement in the lumbar spine, and removeable bifunctional screw which drives vertical sliding expansile plate expansion, and interplate widening, and angled traction spikesUS20120215229 *Aug 23, 2012Alphatec Spine, Inc.Curvilinear spinal access method and deviceUS20120221063 *Aug 30, 2012Abdou M SDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS20130110246 *Oct 22, 2012May 2, 2013Samy AbdouDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementUS20150282949 *Jun 22, 2015Oct 8, 2015Spinecore, Inc.Intervertebral disc and insertion methods thereforUSRE42525Jun 10, 2002Jul 5, 2011Depuy Spine, Inc.Cannula and sizing insertion methodUSRE45338Aug 21, 2013Jan 13, 2015Stryker SpineSystem and method for spinal implant placementUSRE45571Dec 17, 2010Jun 23, 2015DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Cannula and sizing insertion methodUSRE45676Aug 22, 2013Sep 29, 2015Stryker SpineSystem and method for spinal implant placementEP1814474A2 *Nov 23, 2005Aug 8, 2007Samy M. AbdouDevices and methods for inter-vertebral orthopedic device placementEP1998720A2 *Mar 22, 2007Dec 10, 2008Alphaspine, Inc.Pivotable interbody spacerWO2004066884A1Jan 26, 2004Aug 12, 2004Spinalmotion, Inc.Intervertebral prosthesis placement instrumentWO2004089260A1 *Mar 31, 2004Oct 21, 2004Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Apparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodiesWO2005025461A2 *Sep 1, 2004Mar 24, 2005Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Devices and methods for inserting spinal implantsWO2005025461A3 *Sep 1, 2004Jun 30, 2005Roy K LimDevices and methods for inserting spinal implantsWO2005051247A2 *Nov 18, 2004Jun 9, 2005Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Methods and devices for inserting and engaging vertebral implants in minimally invasive proceduresWO2005051247A3 *Nov 18, 2004Jul 28, 2005Roy K LimMethods and devices for inserting and engaging vertebral implants in minimally invasive proceduresWO2006014761A1 *Jul 20, 2005Feb 9, 2006Sdgi Holdings, Inc.Dual distractor inserter* Cited by examinerClassifications U.S. Classification606/99International ClassificationA61F2/00, A61F2/28, A61F2/30, A61B17/58, A61F2/44, A61F2/46, A61B17/02, A61F2/48Cooperative ClassificationA61F2002/4687, A61F2/30724, A61F2002/30785, A61F2002/4623, A61F2002/30153, A61F2230/0019, A61F2002/30125, A61F2002/2835, A61F2/4601, A61F2002/448, A61F2230/0004, A61F2250/0006, A61F2002/30112, A61F2002/30538, A61F2002/4622, A61B17/02, A61B17/0206, A61F2230/0008, A61F2002/4627, A61F2002/30787, A61F2002/4615, A61F2/4611, A61B2017/0256, A61F2/442, A61F2/4465, A61F2002/30774, A61F2002/4635European ClassificationA61F2/46B7, A61F2/44F4, A61F2/46A, A61B17/02Legal EventsDateCodeEventDescriptionDec 31, 2001ASAssignmentOwner name: AESCULAP AG & CO. KG, GERMANYFree format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FUSS, FRANZ KONSTANTIN;SABITZER, RONALD J.;ECKHOF, STEPHAN;REEL/FRAME:012421/0622;SIGNING DATES FROM 20011012 TO 20011114Jan 4, 2007FPAYFee paymentYear of fee payment: 4Oct 23, 2008ASAssignmentOwner name: AESCULAP AG, GERMANYFree format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AESCULAP AG & CO. KG;REEL/FRAME:021731/0524Effective date: 20080506Owner name: AESCULAP AG,GERMANYFree format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AESCULAP AG & CO. KG;REEL/FRAME:021731/0524Effective date: 20080506Jan 19, 2011FPAYFee paymentYear of fee payment: 8Jan 22, 2015FPAYFee paymentYear of fee payment: 12RotateOriginal ImageGoogle Home - Sitemap - USPTO Bulk Downloads - Privacy Policy - Terms of Service - About Google Patents - Send FeedbackData provided by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services