Source: http://www.google.com/patents/US7753939?dq=5754119
Timestamp: 2015-06-30 20:03:05
Document Index: 218909630

Matched Legal Cases: ['Application No. 60', 'Application No. 200600772', 'Application No. 2004216131', 'Application No. 2006200772', 'Application No. 2006200772', 'Application No. 2', 'Application No. 2004216131', 'Application No. 2415072', 'Application No. 02763815', 'Application No. 2006', 'Application No. 01958866', 'Application No. 02763815']

Patent US7753939 - Polyaxial connection device and method - Google PatentsSearch Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »Sign inAdvanced Patent SearchPatentsA surgical implant assembly, and components thereof, are disclosed. Such assemblies include a connector device and an anchoring shaft. The assemblies are useful for insertion into bone and connecting a foreign object to bone via a polyaxial coupling mechanism....http://www.google.com/patents/US7753939?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US7753939 - Polyaxial connection device and methodAdvanced Patent SearchPublication numberUS7753939 B2Publication typeGrantApplication numberUS 10/776,094Publication dateJul 13, 2010Filing dateFeb 10, 2004Priority dateJun 30, 2000Fee statusPaidAlso published asCA2415072A1, CA2415072C, EP1294295A1, EP1294295A4, US6736816, US20020035367, US20040172023, WO2002002022A1Publication number10776094, 776094, US 7753939 B2, US 7753939B2, US-B2-7753939, US7753939 B2, US7753939B2InventorsStephen RitlandOriginal AssigneeStephen RitlandExport CitationBiBTeX, EndNote, RefManPatent Citations (109), Non-Patent Citations (50), Referenced by (1), Classifications (12), Legal Events (3) External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, EspacenetPolyaxial connection device and method
US 7753939 B2Abstract
A surgical implant assembly, and components thereof, are disclosed. Such assemblies include a connector device and an anchoring shaft. The assemblies are useful for insertion into bone and connecting a foreign object to bone via a polyaxial coupling mechanism.
Images(19) Claims(20)
1. An attachment device adapted for use with a tension link, the tension link including a tension link head and shaft, the device comprising:
a shank having first and second ends,
said first end having a securing mechanism, and
said second end devoid of threads and comprising at least a wall defined by a hollow core, a first expansion slot disposed on said wall, and a central aperture, wherein said wall includes a curved exterior surface, wherein said second end is expandably deformable to accommodate the insertion of the tension link head through the central aperture and into said hollow core, and wherein the tension link head is retained within said hollow core after insertion therein;
wherein said attachment device receivingly accepts a connector, said connector comprising a head receptacle that at least partially surrounds said second end when said connector is seated on said attachment device, said head receptacle having a curved surface for engaging the curved exterior surface of the second end when the connector is seated on the attachment device, wherein when the tension link head is inserted in the hollow core and the connector is seated on the attachment device, said head receptacle limits the deformation of the second end when a tensile force is applied through the tension link, thereby securing the tension link head within the hollow core, said tensile force operating to secure the connector to the attachment device.
2. A method of installing a surgical implant assembly, comprising the steps of:
a) securing an attachment device to human bone, said attachment device having a shank with first and second ends, said second end having a wall defined by a hollow core, a central aperture, and an expansion slot disposed on said wall through said second end to said hollow core;
b) inserting a tension link including a proximal end having a tension link head and a distal end having threads, into said attachment device by expanding said second end of said attachment device and placing said tension link head within said hollow core such that said distal end of said tension link extends through said central aperture;
c) seating a connector onto at least a portion of said second end of said attachment device, wherein said distal end of said tension link extends through a tension link cavity in said connector, further wherein said connector includes a head receptacle to receive said at least a portion of said second end of said attachment device during said seating step;
d) inserting an implant component through an aperture in said connector; and
e) securing said connector to said attachment device, and said implant component to said connector by threading and tightening a link nut onto said distal end of said tension link;
wherein, said head receptacle of said receptacle acts to partially confine said second end of said attachment device and limits expansion of said second end after said securing step.
3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein during step (e), tightening the link nut causes a closing of a gap, the closing of the gap causing the implant component to be secured within the aperture.
4. A surgical implant assembly, comprising:
an attachment device having first and second ends, said second end comprising an enlarged area including a wall defined by a hollow core, a central aperture contiguous with said hollow core, and at least one expansion slot disposed on said wall, wherein said wall includes a curved exterior surface;
a tension link having a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end having a tension link head and said distal end including means for securing, said tension link head insertable into said hollow core through said central aperture by deforming said enlarged area using said expansion slot, the tension link head thereby retained within said hollow core; and
a connector having a head receptacle and a tension link cavity, said head receptacle having a curved surface for engaging the curved exterior surface of the second end when the connector is seated on the attachment device, wherein when the tension link head is inserted in the hollow core and the connector is seated on the attachment device, said head receptacle limits the deformation of the second end when a tensile force is applied through the tension link, thereby securing the tension link head within the hollow core, said tensile force being applied by the securing means and operating to secure the connector to the attachment device.
5. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein said means for securing comprises a link nut threaded onto said distal end of said tension link.
6. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 4, further comprising at least a second expansion slot.
7. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein said second expansion slot is positioned substantially diametrically opposite said at least one expansion slot.
8. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein said second end is devoid of threads.
9. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein said first end of said attachment device comprises screw threads.
10. The attachment device as claimed in claim 4, wherein said connector further comprises a gap provided in association with an implant component aperture, wherein when an implant component is inserted in said implant component aperture, said tension additionally operates to close said gap to thereby secure said implant component in said implant component aperture.
11. An attachment device adapted for use with a tension link, the tension link including a tension link head and shaft, the device comprising:
wherein said attachment device receivingly accepts a connector, said connector comprising a head receptacle that at least partially surrounds said second end when said connector is seated on said attachment device, said head receptacle having a curved surface for engaging the curved exterior surface of the second end when the connector is seated on the attachment device, wherein when the tension link head is inserted in the hollow core and the connector is seated on the attachment device, said head receptacle limits the deformation of the second end when a tensile force is applied through the tension link, thereby securing the tension link head within the hollow core, said tensile force operating to secure the connector to the attachment device;
wherein said connector further comprises a gap provided in association with an implant component aperture, wherein when an implant component is inserted in said implant component aperture, said tension additionally operates to close said gap to thereby secure said implant component in said implant component aperture.
12. A surgical implant assembly, comprising:
an attachment device having first and second ends, said second end comprising an enlarged area including a wall defined by a hollow core, a central aperture contiguous with said hollow core, wherein said wall includes a curved exterior surface;
a tension link having a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end having a tension link head and said distal end including means for securing, said tension link head insertable into said hollow core;
an implant component; and
a connector having a head receptacle provided in association with a tension link cavity, and an implant component aperture provided in association with a gap, said implant component aperture operable to receive the implant component, said head receptacle having a curved surface for engaging the curved exterior surface of the second end when the connector is seated on the attachment device, wherein the tension link head is inserted completely into the hollow core and the connector is seated on the attachment device, a tensile force applied by the securing means operates to secure the connector to the attachment device, wherein said tensile force also operates to close said gap to thereby secure the implant component within the implant component aperture, and further wherein said head receptacle limits deformation of said second end of said attachment device when said tensile force is applied.
13. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said means for securing comprises a link nut threaded onto said distal end of said tension link.
14. The surgical implant assembly of claim 12 wherein said second end of said attachment device includes an expansion slot disposed on said wall and is deformable to accommodate the insertion of the tension link head through the central aperture and into said hollow core, and
wherein the tension link head is retained within said hollow core by an engagement between the head receptacle and the curved exterior surface of the second end, the engagement occurring when the tension link head is inserted in the hollow core and the connector is seated on the attachment device, wherein said engagement is maintained by a tensile force applied by the securing mechanism through the tension link, and operates to limit the deformation of the second end when thereby securing the tension link head within the hollow core.
15. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 14, further comprising at least a second expansion slot.
16. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein said second expansion slot is positioned substantially diametrically opposite said at least one expansion slot.
17. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said attachment device includes entry channel operable to receive said tension link.
18. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 17, wherein said attachment device includes a tension link slot.
19. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said second end is devoid of threads.
20. The surgical implant assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said first end of said attachment device comprises screw threads. Description
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/898,478 filed on Jul. 2, 2001 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,736,816 and entitled “POLYAXIAL CONNECTION DEVICE AND METHOD”, which claimed priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/215,602 filed on Jun. 30, 2000. The entire disclosures of these applications are considered to be part of the disclosure of the present application and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
This invention relates generally to polyaxial securement devices and, more particularly, to a screw for insertion into human bone having a polyaxial coupling for adjustably mounting a foreign object to the bone and, even more particularly, to a screw for insertion into spinal bone having a polyaxial coupling and locking mechanism for mounting a stabilizing rod to a sequence of vertebrae.
The use of fixation devices for the treatment of vertebrae deformities and injuries is well known in the art. Various fixation devices are used in medical treatment to correct curvatures and deformities, treat trauma and remedy various abnormal spinal conditions. Treatment of these conditions generally requires the implantation of various component pieces such as support rods, crosslinks, caudal facing hooks, cranial facing hooks and like components, which form a spinal implant system.
It is necessary in spinal implant systems to properly anchor the system to bone to provide necessary support of the implant. Bone screws are commonly used for anchoring spinal implant systems. However, there are several problems with the use of fixed screws for anchoring spinal implants. The exact final position of a bone screw is difficult, if not impossible, to predict prior to the exposure of the patient's bone. This unpredictability results from the uncertainty of exact bone formation and shape within an individual patient. Additionally, it can be difficult to predetermine the structure of the bone, i.e. whether the bone is soft or even osteoporotic. Even if the final position of the screw can be predetermined, the necessary shape and position of a spinal rod implant may create unwanted stress upon the bone screw or the bone itself. This is especially true where a plurality of screws is required along the spinal column for securement of an implant. The alignment of the rod with several screws along the vertebrae compounds this problem and makes undesired stress much more probable. Moreover, this misalignment may influence the extent and speed of correction of the spinal defect.
It is thus desirable to have a polyaxial securement method. There exists a number of patents drawn to polyaxial bone screws. Unfortunately, the advantage of many of these designs comes at the expense of bulk in the connection means or complexity of implantation. As the size of a bone screw increases, so too does the displacement of normal bodily formations, such as muscular tissue or bone. It is common in the insertion of spinal implants to necessarily remove portions of vertebral bone to allow proper insertion of a bone screw. Moreover, this bulk may result in long-term muscular displacement that may lead to a patient's pain or discomfort.
Increased complexity of the installation procedure is undesirable because it increases a patient's time in surgery. Increased operating time is known to increase the risk of many complications associated with surgery. The additional time necessary to remove, or even temporarily dislocate, bone or muscular tissue also increases operating time, and thus the risk of complications.
It is also desirable with some patients to have a spinal implant system that allows the vertebral column to settle naturally under the weight of the human body. Human bone heals more readily under some pressure. In a rigid spinal implant system, the patient's spinal column may be unnaturally held apart by the structure of the implant. It is possible that this stretching of the vertebrae, in relation to one another, results in delayed or incomplete healing of the bone.
In view of the above, there is a long felt but unsolved need for a method and system that avoids the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art and that provides an effective system that is relatively simple to employ and requires minimal displacement or removal of bodily tissue.
In accordance with the present invention, a polyaxial connector device is provided with a socket for receiving a headed connecting link. A surgical implant assembly employing the polyaxial connector device is also disclosed. The surgical implant assembly of the present invention includes an attachment device, a headed anchor shaft (or tension link), and a connector. The attachment device of the present invention has a shank with a securement mechanism on one end and an enlarged area on the other end. The securement mechanism may be selected from any known method of securing one article to another, for example, a hook, a plate, a flanged device, or an adhesive, however, it is anticipated that the most common securement mechanism used will be screw threads. The enlarged area includes a hollow core, i.e., a socket, and a central aperture providing access to the hollow core. The enlarged area need only be large enough to envelop the head of the anchoring shaft and provide a wall thickness necessary for strength considerations.
The attachment device may include additional features to enable the insertion of the head end of the tension link into the hollow core. The enlarged area of the attachment device may include an entry channel, leading to the hollow core, that accommodates the tension link head end so that the tension link may be advanced, shaft end first, until the head of the tension link is positioned within the hollow core. Additionally, the entry channel and the central aperture may be connected by an slot through the wall of the enlarged area. In this way, the tension link head end may be positioned within the hollow core without extending the entire length of the tension link beyond the enlarged area of the attachment device opposite the central aperture. The surgeon may place only the head end of the tension link at the entry channel, slide the tension link shaft through the tension link slot, and draw the head end into the hollow core. Alternatively, in lieu of an entry channel or tension link slot, the enlarged area may include one or more expansion slots. In this embodiment, the head of the tension link may be inserted into the hollow core through the central aperture by the application of enough force to expand the central aperture. Once the head of the tension link is properly received into the hollow core, the enlarged area returns to its original size and shape. Unwanted expansion of the enlarged area is prevented by the connector once the enlarged area is properly seated into a head receptacle on the connector during implantation. This maintains the head of the tension link within the hollow core.
The external surface of the enlarged area of the attachment device may be formed into one of limitless geometries. For example, the external surface may be spherical, or at least semi-spherical. The external surface may be at least slightly aspheric. By controlling the degree of asphericity, the contact surface between the attachment device and the connector can thereby control the degree of freedom of the connector relative to the attachment device. Alternatively, the external surface may be conical, or a truncated cone shape, to allow rotational freedom while maintaining a coaxial relationship between the attachment device and the connector. Also, the external surface may be polyhedral or provided with facets to allow angular displacement in only finite steps or prevented altogether. In embodiments including conical, truncated cone shape, polyhedral or faceted geometries of the external surface of the enlarged area, the mating head receptacle of the connector may have corresponding geometry.
The tension link secures and maintains the position of the connector relative to the attachment device. The tension link is a shaft with a head end and a thread end. The head end, as described above, is contained within the hollow core of the attachment device. The threaded end extends through the connector and is secured to the connector by a link nut threaded onto the thread end.
The tension link may be provided with a projection to prevent undesirable rotation of the link when tightening or loosening the link nut, yet still enable angular displacement necessary to provide a polyaxial connection. In one embodiment, a link retainer, or a projection, may be provided on the shaft of the tension link. In this embodiment, it is necessary to provide a link retainer recess within the tension link cavity of the connector. In an alternative embodiment, the link retainer, or projection, may be provided at the intersection of the tension link shaft and the head end, and extending over a portion of the surface of the head end. In this embodiment, used with the attachment device embodiment including a tension link slot, the rotation may be prevented by contacting the link retainer with one side of the tension link slot. In either of the two foregoing embodiments, it is desirable to undersize the link retainer, relative to the link retainer recess or the tension link slot, so that the polyaxial freedom of the tension link and attachment device combination is not unduly limited. In an alternative embodiment, a retaining process, or small projection, may be provided on the tension link head. The retaining process should be positioned such that the retaining process is within the entry channel. Undesired rotation may be prevented by contacting the small projection with the wall of the entry channel.
The connector couples the attachment device to the implant component, such as a spinal rod implant. The connector has a connecting end with a head receptacle, a rod end with a rod aperture, and a tension link cavity. The tension link, with its head positioned in the hollow core of the attachment device, is inserted through the tension link cavity so that an enlarged area of the attachment device nests in the head receptacle. The rod aperture secures the implant component in a desired position. The rod aperture may be secured by the tension link when the link nut is threaded and tightened on the link. In this embodiment, the rod end of the connector has a gap on one side of the rod aperture. The tension link cavity extends continuously through the tension link on both sides of the gap. The upper portion of the rod end forms a tab. As the tab is drawn toward the receiver end of the connector the gap narrows until the rod aperture firmly clamps the implant component or until the gap is drawn completely together.
In still other embodiments, it may also be desirable to provide a separate system for securing the connector to the attachment device and for securing the implant component to the connector. Therefore, in an alternative embodiment, the gap is connected to the rod aperture in a position that does not intersect the rod aperture. In this embodiment, a separate screw, or other connection device, is required to secure the implant component in the rod aperture. The tension link is then used to secure the connector to the attachment device.
In either of the two foregoing connector embodiments, it may be desirable to secure the rod within the rod aperture without clamping to the extent axial movement of the rod within the rod aperture is prevented. In this way, for example, the spine may settle under its own weight and provide a better healing environment for the bone. In conjunction with this embodiment, the implant component may be supplied with flanges, or other extensions to constrain axial movement of the implant component within a desired range.
To surgically implant a device of the present invention, the surgeon may attach an attachment device, selected from one of the embodiments of the present invention. After successful attachment, the surgeon may insert a tension link of the present invention by positioning the head end of the tension link within the hollow core of the attachment device. The surgeon may then place a connector, with a head receptacle designed for mating with the second end of the attachment device, upon the attachment device by inserting the tension link through the tension link cavity of the connector. At this point, the surgeon may select the desired angle of position of the connector for attaching a implant component. Once the connector is properly adjusted, the link nut may be secured to the tension link, thereby securing the elements together in the desired position. The link nut may be loosened, as necessary, to readjust the placement of the implant component. Alternatively, if a connector having a separate implant component securement device is used, the step of securing the link nut may be delayed until after the implant component is secured in the rod aperture and properly positioned.
Based on the foregoing summary, a number of worthwhile aspects of the present invention can be readily identified. A connector device is provided with a small and simple polyaxial adjustment mechanism. The minimal size of the enlarged area of the connector device allows attachment of the device to human bone without significant displacement of human tissue. Therefore, the complexity of surgery and the following pain and discomfort of the patient may be minimized. The polyaxial nature of the device, combined with the small size, may allow a surgeon to attach the securement device to a secure portion of the human body without the need to remove bony processes to accommodate a larger attachment device. Additionally, a simple surgical implant assembly, including the polyaxial attachment device, is provided. The simplicity of the elements, and the assembly process thereof, may reduce the patient's time in surgery, thus reducing the risk and probability of surgical complications. Finally, a number of embodiments of the present invention may be used in combination to allow the surgeon great latitude in selection of materials. The surgeon may select from different embodiments of the attachment device, the tension link, and the connector to best fit the surgical implant parameters. With these choices the surgeon may then best determine which embodiments of which elements to select to minimize removal or displacement of bodily tissue or bone, and thereby reduce both the patient's risk of surgical complications and post-surgical pain and discomfort.
Additional advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following discussion, particularly when taken together with the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 a is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 1 b is an end perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an end perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the connector device shown if FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is an end perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the connector device shown in FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is an end perspective view of yet another alternative embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is an end perspective view of still another alternative embodiment of the connector device of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is an elevation view of the connector device shown in FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 a is an front elevation view of one embodiment of the tension link with a link retainer of the present invention;
FIG. 9 b is a side elevation view of the tension link with link retainer shown in FIG. 7 a; FIG. 9 c is an end view of the tension link with link retainer shown in FIG. 7 a; FIG. 10 a is an front elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the tension link with a link retainer of the present invention;
FIG. 10 b is a side elevation view of the tension link with link retainer shown in FIG. 8 a; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the tension link with head end process of the present invention;
FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of one embodiment of the connector of the present invention;
FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the connector of the present invention;
FIG. 14 is an bottom perspective view of the connector shown in FIG. 11;
FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the connector of the present invention;
FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of yet another alternative embodiment of the connector of the present invention;
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical implant assembly of the present invention;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the surgical implant assembly of the present invention;
FIG. 19 a is a cross-sectional elevation view of another alternative embodiment of the surgical implant assembly of the present invention; and
FIG. 19 b is a plan view of the surgical implant assembly shown in FIG. 19 a. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
With reference to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the attachment device (or connection device) of the present invention is shown in partial cross-section. The attachment device 10 includes a shank 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16. The first end 14 of the shank 12 includes a securement mechanism 18. As shown in FIG. 1, the securement mechanism 18 may be screw threads. It is noted, however, that the securement mechanism 18 may include any known method of securing one item to another. For example, the securement mechanism 18 may be a hook, a plate, a flange, or adhesive. In the case of the securement mechanism 18 as a flange or plate, the securement mechanism 18 may require additional hardware such as screws, bolts, or adhesive to secure the plate or flange to the intended object. In the case of the securement mechanism 18 as an adhesive, or requiring the additional use of adhesive, the adhesive would necessarily be applied to the securement mechanism 18, not included within it. Additionally, adhesive could be used with the securement mechanism 18, e.g., applied to screw threads, for additional securement capacity.
The second end 16 of the shank 12 generally comprises an enlarged area 20 including a central core 22 and an aperture 24. The second end 16 of FIG. 1 is shown in cross-sectional view to more clearly show the central core 22 and the aperture 24.
With reference to FIG. 2, an embodiment of the second end 16 of the shank 12 is shown. In this embodiment, the enlarged area 20 includes a hollow core 22 and a central aperture 24. The enlarged area also includes an entry channel 26. The entry channel 26 is operatively connected with the hollow core 22 such that a tension link 28, having a shaft 30 with a threaded end 32 and a head end 34, may be inserted, threaded end 32 first, through the entry channel 26, the hollow core 22, and central aperture 24 until the head end 34 of the tension link 28 is retained within the hollow core 22 by the central aperture 24.
With reference to FIG. 3, the embodiment of the second end 16 of attachment device 10 is shown in cross-section. FIG. 3 clarifies the operational relationship between the entry channel 26, the hollow core 22 and the central aperture 24.
With reference to FIG. 4, an alternative embodiment of the attachment device 10 is shown. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3, but with an additional element. In this embodiment, a tension link slot 36 is provided between the entry channel 26 and the central aperture 24. The tension link slot 36 allows the shaft 30 of the tension link 28 to be inserted through the tension link slot 36. In this way, the tension link 28 may be inserted through the tension link slot 36 to pass through both central aperture 24 and the entry channel 26. The tension link 28 may then be drawn through the aperture 24 until the tension link head end 34 passes through the entry channel 26 and rests in the hollow core 22. This embodiment may allow the surgeon to insert a tension link 28 into an attachment device 10 secured to the human body in cases where the obstacles, including the human body itself, or parts thereof, prevent the length of the tension link 28 from extending completely beyond the entry channel 26 opposite the central aperture 24.
FIG. 5 shows an end view, from the second end 16, of the embodiment of the attachment device 10 from FIG. 4. FIG. 5 clarifies the relationship between the tension link slot 36 and the central aperture 24, the hollow core 22 and the entry channel 26. It should be noted that the central aperture 24 is shown in FIG. 5 as located at top dead center of the enlarged portion 20 of the attachment device 10. However, the location of the central aperture 24 may be at any angular relationship to the shank 12. This location of the central aperture 24 applies to this, and every other, embodiment of the attachment device 10. The hollow core 22 should be sized to receive the head end 34 of the tension link 28, in this and other embodiments of the present invention. Similarly, the central aperture 24 should be sized to accommodate the tension link shaft 30, and with enough clearance to provide the desired angular displacement. For example, it may be desirable to provide from about 0 to 60 degrees of angular displacement of the tension link 28 from the longitudinal axis of the attachment device 10. In some instances, a smaller range may be advantageous.
With reference to FIG. 6, an additional alternative embodiment of the enlarged area 20 of the attachment device 10 is shown. In this embodiment, the enlarged area 20 includes a hollow core 22 and a central aperture 24, but does not include an entry channel 26. Instead, at least one expansion slot 38 extends from the central aperture 24 along the exterior surface of the enlarged area 20. The expansion slot 38 extends completely through the wall defined by the hollow core 22 and the exterior surface of the enlarged area 20. The embodiment of FIG. 6 includes two expansion slots 38 diametrically opposite from one another, however, the number of expansion slots 38 and their location in radial relation to the central aperture 24 may be selected in the design of the attachment device 10 according to, among other things, the application, or the size and material of construction of the attachment device 10. The expansion slots 38 may allow insertion of the head end 34 of the tension link 28 into the hollow core 22 through the central aperture 24 by allowing deformation of the enlarged area 20. As explained in more detail below, the connector 40, more specifically, the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40, when properly installed over the enlarged area 20 prevents further deformation of the enlarged area 20, and thus the central aperture 24 retains the head 34 of the tension link 28 within the hollow core 22.
With reference to FIG. 7, yet another alternative embodiment of the enlarged area 20 of the attachment device 10 is shown. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the enlarged area 20 includes a substantially conical portion around the central aperture 24. The head receptacle 42 of the connector 40 has mating geometry to the enlarged area 20. Thus, the partially conical shape of the enlarged area 20 allows polyaxial positioning of the connector 40 while controlling movement in one degree of freedom. The connector 40 may rotate around the central axis of the conical section, however, the mating geometry of the head receptacle 42 prevents angular displacement relative to the central axis of the conical section. Obviously, the central aperture 24 may require that the shape of the enlarged area 20 not be truly conical. The central aperture 24 may necessitate the geometry of the enlarged area 20 to be more aptly described as a truncated cone shape.
FIG. 8 shows the embodiment of the attachment device 10 of FIG. 7 in an elevation view. While FIG. 8 shows the enlarged area 20 to include a hollow core 22, a central aperture 24, and an entry channel 26, it is noted that conical-shaped enlarged area 20 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 may be used with any alternative embodiments of the attachment device 10 related to the method of insertion of the tension link head 34 into the hollow core 22, including, for example, the expansion slots 38, or the tension link slot 36.
In alternative embodiments not shown in the drawings, the exterior surface of the enlarged area 20 may other configurations. For example, the exterior surface of the enlarged area 20 may be formed as a polyhedron, such as a dodecahedron, or be provided with facets. In this embodiment, the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40 will also have a corresponding geometry. In this way, a polyaxial relationship is provided between the attachment device 10 and the connector 40, yet limiting this polyaxial relationship to a finite number of angular displacement.
The enlarged area 20 is shown in the drawings as at least approximately spheric. It is noted, however that the enlarged area 20 and/or the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40 may also be aspheric. The use of the aspheric construction of either the enlarged area 20 or the head receptacle 42, or both, may accommodate the elasticity and deformation of the material the structure. The amount of asphericity may be selected to control the area of surface contact between the enlarged area 20 and the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40. The amount of asphericity may also be selected to control or vary the degree of freedom required by the linkage.
Further, in any embodiment or configuration of the enlarged area 20, the external surface of the enlarged area 20 may be textured, i.e., provided with a specified surface roughness. The texture, or surface roughness, of the enlarged area 20 may be selected to properly control the friction between the enlarged area 20 and the head receptacle 42, and thus controlling, among other things, the tension force required to secure the devices together or degrees of freedom in their combination. It should be noted that the internal wall of the hollow core 22, the head end 34 of the tension link 28, and/or the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40 may also be provided with a texture, or surface roughness.
With reference to FIGS. 9 a, 9 b, and 9 c, a tension link 28 is shown. The tension link 28 is generally a shaft 30 with a head end 34 and a thread end 32. As shown in FIGS. 9 a, 9 b, and 9 c, one embodiment of the tension link 28 may include a link retainer 44. The link retainer 44, in this embodiment, comprises a projection on the shaft 30 of the tension link 28. The link retainer 44 may be used to prevent unwanted rotation, but not angular orientation, of the tension link 28 within the hollow core 22 of the attachment device 10.
FIG. 9 a shows an embodiment of the tension link with a link retainer 44 in partial side elevation. FIG. 9 b shows the same embodiment in front elevation. FIG. 9 c shows this embodiment in plan view as seen from the thread end 32 of the tension link 28. The thread end 28 of the tension link 28 is not shown in FIGS. 9 a, 9 b, and 9 c. With reference to FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, an alternative embodiment of the link retainer 44 of the tension link 28 is shown. The tension link 28 is shown in partial side elevation and partial front elevation, in FIG. 10 a and FIG. 10 b, respectively. Again, this view is “partial” because the thread end 32 of the tension link 28 is omitted from the drawing. The link retainer 44 in this embodiment is a projection that spans the intersection of the shaft 30 and the head end 34 of the tension link 28 and extends partially along the surface of the head end 34. This embodiment may be used in conjunction with the embodiment of the attachment device 10 including the tension link slot 36, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 above. As in the previous embodiment, the tension link may be prevented from unwanted rotation of the tension link 28 within the hollow core 22. The link retainer 44 may be placed in contact with the wall of the tension link slot 36 to prevent such rotation.
With reference to FIG. 11, an alternative embodiment of the tension link 28 is shown. The tension link 28 again includes a shaft 30 with a head end 34 and a thread end 32, and, in this embodiment, a head end process 46. The head end process 46 is a projection on the head end 34 of the tension link 28. The head end process 46 may be used to prevent rotation of the tension link 28 within the hollow core 22 similar to the link retainer 44. However, this embodiment would most commonly be used with an attachment device 10 having a entry channel 26, and the head end process 46 could be placed in contact with a wall of the entry channel 26 to prevent the rotation.
With reference to FIG. 12, an embodiment of the connector 40 is shown. The connector has a receiving end 48 and a rod end 50. The receiving end 48 includes a head receptacle 42 for receiving the enlarged area 20 of the attachment device 10. The rod end 50 includes a rod aperture 52 for receiving a implant component 54, such as a spinal rod implant or other device. A tension link cavity 56 is provided from the head receptacle 42 to the rod end 50. The tension link cavity 56 is sized to allow the insertion of the thread end 32 of a tension link 28 through the connector 40. In the embodiment of the connector 40 shown in FIG. 12, a link nut recess 58 is provided at the rod end 50 adjacent to the tension link cavity 56 for seating a link nut 60 used to secure the connector 40 to the tension link 28. As shown in FIG. 12, the connector may include a gap 62 located medially between the receiving end 48 and the rod end 50, and in operative relationship with the rod aperture 52 such that when the gap 62 is closed, the rod aperture 52 may secure the implant component 54. In this embodiment, tightening of the link nut 60 on the tension link 28 closes the gap 62, and thus secures the implant component 54, concurrently with securing the connector 40 to the attachment device 10 in a desired position. The embodiment shown in FIG. 12 includes the alternative feature of a link retainer recess 64. The link retainer recess 64 is a void located along the tension link cavity 56 and adjacent to the head receptacle 42. The link retainer recess 64 accommodates the link retainer 44 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 a, 9 b and 9 c, such that the link retainer 44 may contact the wall of the link retainer recess 64 and prevent undesired rotation of the tension link 28. The link retainer recess 64 should be sized accordingly.
Referring now to FIG. 13, an alternative embodiment of the connector 40 of the present invention is shown. Like the embodiment of FIG. 13, the connector 40 of this embodiment has a receiving end 48 with a head receptacle 42, a rod end 50 with a rod aperture 52, and a tension link cavity 56. In this embodiment, however, the rod aperture 52 is offset from the body of the connector 40. The ability to offset the rod aperture 52 may provide greater latitude to the surgeon when attempting to avoid obstacles such as bones or other tissues.
FIG. 14 shows the embodiment of the connector 40 of FIG. 13 from the receiving end 48. The tension link cavity 56 in this embodiment does not include the alternative element of the link retainer recess 64.
With reference to FIG. 15, an alternative embodiment of the connector 40 is shown. In this embodiment, the implant component 54 is secured in the rod aperture 52 separately from securing the connector 40 to the attachment device 10 by the tension link 28. The tension link cavity 56 does not intersect the gap 62 in the wall of the rod aperture 52. Instead, a portion of the wall of the rod aperture forms a tab 66 with a implant securement hole 67. The tab 66 may be secured to the connector 40 by a implant securement screw 69 inserted through the implant securement hole 67 and into the connector 40. This configuration may provide further offset capacity for the connector from the attachment device 10.
Referring now to FIG. 16, a further embodiment of the connector 40 is provided wherein the implant component 54 is secured in the rod aperture 52 separately from securing the connector 40 to the attachment device 10. As in the embodiment of FIG. 15, a portion of the wall of the rod aperture forms a tab 66 with a implant securement hole 67. The tab 66 may be secured to the connector 40 by a implant securement screw 69 inserted through the implant securement hole 67 and into the connector 40. However, in this embodiment, the tab 66 is located toward the exterior of the connector 40.
With reference to FIG. 17, a possible combination of the above described elements is provided to show a surgical implantation system. The surgical implant system 70 includes a attachment device 10, a tension link 28, a connector 40, and a link nut 60. The implant component 54 is omitted from this drawing. The tension link head end 34 is inserted into the hollow core 22 of the attachment device 10. The tension link 28 extends through the tension link cavity 56 of the connector 40 such that the enlarged area 20 of the attachment device 10 is received into the head receptacle 42 of the connector 40. The connector 40 may then be secured to the attachment device 10 in proper position by tightening the link nut 60 on the tension link 28. In this embodiment, tightening the link nut 60 will also close the rod aperture gap 62 and secure the implant component 54 within the rod aperture 52.
As an aside, the head receptacle wall 68 is shown extending to approximately the “equator” or diameter of the enlarged area 20 of the attachment device 10. It should be noted that the extent that the head receptacle wall 68 engages the enlarged area 20 may be varied. For instance, a smaller wall 68 engagement may be desirable to increase the polyaxial adjustment of the assembly. Alternatively, it may be desirable to provide greater wall 68 engagement with the enlarged area 20 to prevent unnecessary deformation of the enlarged area 20, for example when the enlarged area 20 is provided with an expansion slot 38 or a tension link slot 36. Further, if the head receptacle wall 68 is designed for engagement beyond the “equator” of the enlarged area, the head receptacle wall 68 may match the contour of the enlarged area 20. In other words, the size of the head receptacle 42, at the farthest point on the receiving end 48 of the connector 40, may be smaller than the maximum size of the enlarged area 20 at its “equator.” This may provide an additional advantage to the surgeon. In this situation, a tactile or audible signal may be provided when the enlarged area 20 is properly received into the head receptacle 42.
With reference to FIG. 18, an alternative arrangement of the surgical implant system 70 is shown. In this embodiment, the connectors 40 secure a implant component 54, in this case a rod, to the attachment devices 10. The orientation of the attachment devices 10 illustrate the polyaxial nature of the system 70. The attachment devices may be secured to whatever structure is necessary at different angles and on different planes.
Referring now to FIGS. 19 a and 19 b, an alternative embodiment of the surgical implantation system 70 is provided. In this embodiment, a dynamic system is created wherein the implant component 54 is allowed to move freely along its longitudinal axis within connector rod aperture 52. This is accomplished by manufacturing some clearance tolerance within the rod aperture 52 when the link nut 60 is completely tightened on tension link 28. FIG. 19 a also shows an alternative embodiment of a retaining recess 72 adjacent to the connector rod aperture 52. The retaining recess 72 corresponds with a retaining process 74 on the implant component 54 to limit the extent of dynamic nature within the implant. The retaining recess 72 and the retaining process 74 are sized and work in relation to one another such that the longitudinal movement of the implant component 54 is arrested when the retaining process 74 nests in the retaining recess 72.
Although it is not shown in the drawings, it is also possible to use the retaining process 74 without the retaining recess 72. It this aspect, the longitudinal movement of the implant component 54 is arrested when the retaining process 74 contacts the exterior surface of the connector 40 at the rod aperture 52. It is also possible to use either of the two above embodiments on either side of the rod aperture 52, wherein the longitudinal movement of the implant component 54 can be constrained in one or both directions.
Additional embodiments of the present invention are not shown in the drawings. For example, it is expected that the attachment device 10 may be used in conjunction with a hook in place of the tension link 28. In this embodiment, the hook would have a ball end and a hook end. The ball end would be inserted into the central core 22 of the attachment device 10 and the hook end would be used to secure some bodily structure, such as a bone. The hook rod would be capable of polyaxial movement.
The present invention also relates to a method of using the embodiments as set forth above. In one embodiment, the method using a surgical implant system 70 would first require the selective insertion of the attachment device 10 into a human bone. The tension link head end 34 could then inserted into the hollow core 22 of the attachment device 10. The step of insertion of the head end 34 would depend upon the embodiment of the attachment device 10 selected. For example, if a attachment device 10 with an entry channel 26, but no tension link slot 36, is provided, the tension link 28 is positioned in the aperture 24 by way of the entry channel 26. The connector 40 is positioned on the tension link 28 by inserting the tension link 28 through the connector tension link cavity 56.
At this point, the surgeon can position the connector 40 such that the implant component 54, when properly inserted in connector rod aperture 52, is held in the desired position along the spinal column. The surgeon can then secure the position of the implant component 54 and the connector 40 in relation to the attachment device 10 by tightening the link nut 60 on the tension link threaded end 32. This process is repeated, as necessary, along the spinal column at various points along the implant component 54. In this way, the surgeon has implemented the above described embodiments as a method for using the surgical implant system, for example, in repairing a degenerative spinal condition.
It is understood that the present invention has application outside the surgical implantation field. The polyaxial securing mechanism of the present invention is not limited to medical implants. The present invention, for example, could be used to secure guy wires or rods. In this application, the anchor screw could be inserted into the ground, e.g., set directly in to the soil, mounted in a concrete footing, or similar mounting. The guy wire or rod (i.e., the tension link) could then be inserted through the anchor screw and connected to the structure to be secured. The guy rod may include a turnbuckle. The turn buckle can then be adjusted to the desired tension in the guy rod. In this way, some room for error in the location of the anchor bolt is built into the installation process. The guy rod may be installed between the anchor screw and the structure without placing undue stress on the guy rod, or requiring unnecessary bending of the guy rod, due to misalignment between the connection point on the structure and the anchor bolt position. This is especially beneficial when a turnbuckle is implemented in the guy rod. The polyaxial nature of the anchor screw would allow the turnbuckle to be more easily adjusted since the stress within the guy rod is limited to the axial direction of the rod, i.e., no bending stress on the turnbuckle.
This is just one example of the possible applications of the present invention outside the field of medical implants. Other applications, by no means exhaustive, may include connecting legs of a tripod to a base and mounting track lighting fixtures.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims.
Patent CitationsCited PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS2191Jul 23, 1841 Constructing the surgical instrument denominated theUS569839Dec 11, 1895Oct 20, 1896 John tUS605652Jun 1, 1897Jun 14, 1898 Endoscopic instrumentUS1090746Apr 26, 1913Mar 17, 1914Frank P NourseSpeculum.US1097978Jun 14, 1913May 26, 1914Hardwick Jackson JCombined dilator and catheter.US3467079Apr 14, 1967Sep 16, 1969James David CharlesGall bladder and common duct retractorUS3470872Nov 25, 1966Oct 7, 1969Grieshaber Herman RPivoted retractor with shielded spacer teethUS3875595Apr 15, 1974Apr 8, 1975Froning Edward CIntervertebral disc prosthesis and instruments for locating sameUS3893454Feb 6, 1974Jul 8, 1975Stille Werner AbInstrument for use in coniotomyUS4041939Apr 26, 1976Aug 16, 1977Downs Surgical LimitedSurgical implant spinal screwUS4232660Mar 26, 1979Nov 11, 1980Coles Robert LWinged irrigating surgical retractorUS4440168Aug 31, 1981Apr 3, 1984Warren Mark GSurgical deviceUS4481947Feb 14, 1980Nov 13, 1984Chester Martin HEndotracheal tube retractorUS4545374Sep 3, 1982Oct 8, 1985Jacobson Robert EMethod and instruments for performing a percutaneous lumbar diskectomyUS4573448Oct 5, 1983Mar 4, 1986Pilling Co.Method for decompressing herniated intervertebral discsUS4617922Nov 28, 1984Oct 21, 1986Richards Medical CompanyCompression screw assemblyUS4620460Jul 1, 1985Nov 4, 1986Gonzales Jr FrankSocket setUS4686972Apr 30, 1986Aug 18, 1987Kurland Kenneth ZSurgical deflector and drilling guideUS4736738May 2, 1985Apr 12, 1988Matej LipovsekInstrument kit and procedure for performing posterior lumbar interbody fusionUS4743260Jun 10, 1985May 10, 1988Burton Charles VMethod for a flexible stabilization system for a vertebral columnUS4747394Oct 8, 1986May 31, 1988Watanabe Orthopedic Systems, Inc.Spinal retractorUS4798111Aug 3, 1987Jan 17, 1989Cheeseman Charles DSocket-wrench hand toolUS4803976Apr 8, 1988Feb 14, 1989SynthesSighting instrumentUS4817587Aug 31, 1987Apr 4, 1989Janese Woodrow WRing para-spinal retractorUS4862891Mar 14, 1988Sep 5, 1989Canyon Medical ProductsDevice for sequential percutaneous dilationUS4863423Mar 23, 1988Sep 5, 1989H. G. Wallace Ltd.Catheter and cannula assemblyUS4882958Dec 5, 1988Nov 28, 1989Mcneeley Richard LStacking socket wrench setUS4889112Jun 26, 1987Dec 26, 1989Waltap Ltd.Apparatus for performing a tracheostomy operationUS4946458Feb 28, 1989Aug 7, 1990Harms JuergenPedicle screwUS4995875May 27, 1988Feb 26, 1991Cecil CoesFemoral elevating toolUS5002542Oct 30, 1989Mar 26, 1991Synthes U.S.A.Pedicle screw clampUS5002576Jun 6, 1989Mar 26, 1991Mecron Medizinische Produkte GmbhIntervertebral disk endoprosthesisUS5018507Jul 13, 1990May 28, 1991Montaldi David HOne-piece disposable speculumUS5024213Feb 8, 1989Jun 18, 1991Acromed CorporationConnector for a corrective deviceUS5026373Nov 6, 1989Jun 25, 1991Surgical Dynamics, Inc.Surgical method and apparatus for fusing adjacent bone structuresUS5030220Mar 29, 1990Jul 9, 1991Advanced Spine Fixation Systems IncorporatedSpine fixation systemUS5030223Jun 30, 1989Jul 9, 1991Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.Head mounted stereotaxic apparatusUS5035232Oct 21, 1988Jul 30, 1991Aesculap AgRetractorUS5048379Mar 29, 1990Sep 17, 1991Gramera Robert EMulti-functional double-ended socket wrenchesUS5052373Apr 10, 1990Oct 1, 1991Michelson Gary KSpinal retractorUS5055104Nov 6, 1989Oct 8, 1991Surgical Dynamics, Inc.Surgically implanting threaded fusion cages between adjacent low-back vertebrae by an anterior approachUS5084043Jan 12, 1990Jan 28, 1992LaserscopeMethod for performing a percutaneous diskectomy using a laserUS5098435Nov 21, 1990Mar 24, 1992Alphatec Manufacturing Inc.CannulaUS5106376Jul 3, 1990Apr 21, 1992B. Braun Melsungen AgAnaesthesia setUS5129899Mar 27, 1991Jul 14, 1992Smith & Nephew Richards Inc.Bone fixation apparatusUS5129900Jul 24, 1990Jul 14, 1992Acromed CorporationSpinal column retaining method and apparatusUS5133720Jun 21, 1991Jul 28, 1992Greenberg Alex MSurgical drill guide and retractorUS5135525Jun 1, 1990Aug 4, 1992B. Braun Melsungen AgCatheter set for continuous spinal anaesthesiaUS5148724Jun 13, 1991Sep 22, 1992Rexford Gary RRatchet wrench and socket apparatusUS5158543Oct 30, 1990Oct 27, 1992Lazarus Harrison MLaparoscopic surgical system and methodUS5165306Oct 4, 1990Nov 24, 1992Maclean-Fogg CompanyVehicle stabilizer bar end linkUS5195541Oct 18, 1991Mar 23, 1993Obenchain Theodore GMethod of performing laparoscopic lumbar discectomyUS5217007Apr 26, 1991Jun 8, 1993Cook IncorporatedSpeculum for forming an ostomy in a tracheaUS5275600Oct 5, 1992Jan 4, 1994Zimmer, Inc.Telescoping rod to rod coupler for a spinal systemUS5275611Jul 13, 1992Jan 4, 1994Innerdyne Medical, Inc.Tension guide and dilatorUS5279567Jul 2, 1992Jan 18, 1994Conmed CorporationTrocar and tube with pressure signalUS5292309Jan 22, 1993Mar 8, 1994Schneider (Usa) Inc.Surgical depth measuring instrument and methodUS5303694Feb 9, 1993Apr 19, 1994Mikhail Michael W EMethod for performing hip surgery and retractor for use thereinUS5304179Jun 17, 1993Apr 19, 1994Amei Technologies Inc.System and method for installing a spinal fixation system at variable anglesUS5306275Dec 31, 1992Apr 26, 1994Bryan Donald WLumbar spine fixation apparatus and methodUS5306309May 4, 1992Apr 26, 1994Calcitek, Inc.Spinal disk implant and implantation kitUS5312360Mar 18, 1993May 17, 1994Innerdyne Medical, Inc.Tension guide and dilatorUS5312405Jul 6, 1992May 17, 1994Zimmer, Inc.Spinal rod couplerUS5330473Mar 4, 1993Jul 19, 1994Advanced Spine Fixation Systems, Inc.Branch connector for spinal fixation systemsUS5330474Jul 29, 1993Jul 19, 1994Lin Chih IVertebral locking and retrieving systemUS5330476Nov 18, 1992Jul 19, 1994Christophe ObryProtective cap for an osteosynthesis pin and assembly including this cap as well as an instrument for fixing it on the pinUS5356413Mar 12, 1993Oct 18, 1994Mitek Surgical Products, Inc.Surgical anchor and method for deploying the sameUS5363841Jul 2, 1993Nov 15, 1994Coker Wesley LRetractor for spinal surgeryUS5415661Mar 24, 1993May 16, 1995University Of MiamiImplantable spinal assist deviceUS5431639Aug 12, 1993Jul 11, 1995Boston Scientific CorporationTreating wounds caused by medical proceduresUS5431651Feb 8, 1993Jul 11, 1995Goble; E. MarloweCross pin and set screw femoral and tibial fixation methodUS5439464Mar 9, 1993Aug 8, 1995Shapiro Partners LimitedMethod and instruments for performing arthroscopic spinal surgeryUS5466238Dec 22, 1994Nov 14, 1995Lin; Chih-IVertebral locking and retrieving system having a fixation crossbarUS5472426Aug 17, 1993Dec 5, 1995B.E.I. MedicalCervical discectomy instrumentsUS5474555Aug 3, 1994Dec 12, 1995Cross Medical ProductsSpinal implant systemUS5480401Feb 10, 1994Jan 2, 1996PsiExtra-discal inter-vertebral prosthesis for controlling the variations of the inter-vertebral distance by means of a double damperUS5484440Aug 18, 1994Jan 16, 1996Zimmer, Inc.Bone screw and screwdriverUS5489274Oct 9, 1992Feb 6, 1996Boston Scientific CorporationRotatable medical valve closureUS5489308Sep 1, 1994Feb 6, 1996Spine-Tech, Inc.Spinal implantUS5498262Apr 25, 1994Mar 12, 1996Bryan; Donald W.Spinal fixation apparatus and methodUS5499983Feb 23, 1994Mar 19, 1996Smith & Nephew Richards, Inc.Variable angle spinal screwUS5501684Jun 25, 1992Mar 26, 1996Synthes (U.S.A.)Osteosynthetic fixation deviceUS5512038Nov 15, 1993Apr 30, 1996O'neal; Darrell D.Spinal retractor apparatus having a curved bladeUS5545166Jul 14, 1994Aug 13, 1996Advanced Spine Fixation Systems, IncorporatedSpinal segmental reduction derotational fixation systemUS5549612Jun 22, 1994Aug 27, 1996Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.Osteosynthesis plate systemUS5558622Sep 2, 1994Sep 24, 1996Greenberg Surgical Technologies, LlcMandibular border retractor and method for fixating a fractured mandibleUS5562663Jun 7, 1995Oct 8, 1996Danek Medical, Inc.Implant interconnection mechanismUS5565502Mar 24, 1995Oct 15, 1996Children's Medical Center CorporationIsolation of the calcium-phosphate crystals of boneUS5569300Apr 12, 1995Oct 29, 1996Redmon; Henry A.Dilating surgical forceps having illumination means on blade inner surfaceUS5584831Jul 9, 1993Dec 17, 1996September 28, Inc.Spinal fixation device and methodUS5584833Apr 25, 1995Dec 17, 1996Soprane S.A.Device for retaining a connecting rod of a spine fixator on a pedicular screwUS5591166Mar 27, 1995Jan 7, 1997Smith & Nephew Richards, Inc.Multi angle bone boltUS5591235Mar 15, 1995Jan 7, 1997Kuslich; Stephen D.Spinal fixation deviceUS5593409Feb 17, 1995Jan 14, 1997Sofamor Danek Group, Inc.Interbody spinal fusion implantsUS5601550Oct 25, 1994Feb 11, 1997Esser; Rene D.Pelvic pin guide system for insertion of pins into iliac boneUS5603714 *Dec 12, 1994Feb 18, 1997Mizuho Ika Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInstrument for anterior correction of scoliosis or the likeUS5611778May 12, 1993Mar 18, 1997VygonSurgical instrument for performing epidural anesthesiaUS5613968May 1, 1995Mar 25, 1997Lin; Chih-IUniversal pad fixation device for orthopedic surgeryUS5628740 *Jun 30, 1995May 13, 1997Mullane; Thomas S.Articulating toggle bolt bone screwUS5643263Aug 14, 1995Jul 1, 1997Simonson; Peter MelottSpinal implant connection assemblyUS5735851 *Oct 9, 1996Apr 7, 1998Third Millennium Engineering, LlcModular polyaxial locking pedicle screwUS5800435 *May 1, 1997Sep 1, 1998Techsys, LlcModular spinal plate for use with modular polyaxial locking pedicle screwsUS6050997 *Jan 25, 1999Apr 18, 2000Mullane; Thomas S.Spinal fixation systemUS6074393 *Jun 4, 1997Jun 13, 2000Robert Reid, Inc.Bone fixing screwsUS6267765 *Jun 3, 1998Jul 31, 2001Jean TaylorMultidirectional adaptable vertebral osteosyntsis device with reduced space requirementUS6554831 *Sep 1, 2000Apr 29, 2003Hopital Sainte-JustineMobile dynamic system for treating spinal disorderUS6554834 *Oct 7, 1999Apr 29, 2003Stryker SpineSlotted head pedicle screw assemblyUS6736816 *Jul 2, 2001May 18, 2004Stephen RitlandPolyaxial connection device and methodUSD361381Mar 17, 1994Aug 15, 1995 Combined spine and sternum retractor frame* Cited by examinerNon-Patent CitationsReference1Caspar; "Technique of Microsurgery: Microsurgery of the Lumbar Spine: Principles and Techniques in Spine Surgery"; Aspen Publications; 1990; 105-122.2China Chemical Reporter, "Rapid Development of Polyether Ether Ketone", CNCIC Chemdata Inc., 2004, 2 pages.3Final Office Action dated Dec. 24, 2008, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/069,390.4Final Office Action dated Nov. 23, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/669,015.5Final Office Action dated Oct. 28, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/283,006.6Green, "Body Building-Medical Materials for Systems and Scaffolding," Materials World, Journal of the Institute of Materials, vol. 10, No. 2, 2001, 4 pages.7Green, "Body Building—Medical Materials for Systems and Scaffolding," Materials World, Journal of the Institute of Materials, vol. 10, No. 2, 2001, 4 pages.8Green, et al., "A Polyaryletherketone Biomaterial for Use in Medical Implant Applications," Lancashire, United Kingdom, 2001, 1 page.9Hilton et al.; "Meditronic Sofamor Danek METRX Microdiscectomy Surgical Technique Brochure"; 2000.10International Preliminary Examination Report dated Aug. 26, 2005, issued in Application No. PCT/US04/05751.11International Preliminary Examination Report dated Dec. 5, 2003, issued in Application No. PCT/US02/31201.12International Preliminary Examination Report dated Mar. 4, 2003, issued in Application PCT/US2001/021205.13International Preliminary Examination Report for PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US01/21205 mailed Apr. 23, 2003.14International Search Report dated Feb. 19, 2003, issued in Application No. PCT/US02/31201.15International Search Report dated Mar. 3, 2005, issued in Application No. PCT/US04/05751.16International Search Report dated Sep. 13, 2001, issued in Application PCT/US2001/021205.17International Search Report for PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US01/21205 mailed Sep. 13, 2001.18Invibio, Biomaterials Solutions, "PEEK-Classix," Invibio Inc., Lancashire, United Kingdom, 2003, 2 pages.19Invibio, Biomaterials Solutions, "PEEK-Optima Polymer: Performance Purity Flexibility Endurance," Invibio Inc., Lancashire, United Kingdom, 2004, 3 pages.20Kambin; "Arthroscopic Microdiscectomy: Minimal Intervention in Spinal Surgery"; National Library of Medicine; 1991; 67-100.21Notice of Allowance and Approved Claim Set dated Mar. 20, 2009, issued in Australian Application No. 200600772.22Notice of Allowance dated Nov. 27, 2009, issued in Australian Application No. 2004216131.23Notice of Allowance dated Nov. 9, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/069,390.24Office Action dated Aug. 21, 2008, issued in Australian Application No. 2006200772.25Office Action dated Aug. 21, 2008, related Australian Application No. 2006200772.26Office Action dated Dec. 1, 2008, issued in related and co-pending Canadian Application No. 2,415,072.27Office Action dated Feb. 23, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/669,015.28Office Action dated Jan. 22, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/283,006.29Office Action dated Mar. 28, 2006, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 10/262,574.30Office Action dated May 13, 2008, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/069,390.31Office Action dated May 18, 2009, issued in U.S. Appl. No. 11/069,390.32Office Action dated Nov. 21, 2008, issued in Australian Application No. 2004216131.33Office Action dated Nov. 4, 2009, issued in Canadian Application No. 2415072.34Office Action dated Oct. 12, 2009, issued in European Application No. 02763815.4.35Office Action dated Oct. 21, 2009, issued in Japanese Application No. 2006-503886.36Savitz; "Same-Day Microsurgical Arthroscopic Latera-Approach Laser-Assisted (Small) Fluoroscopic Discectomy"; Journal of Neurosurgery; Jun. 1994; 1039-1045.37Schaffer et al.; "Percutaneous Posterolateral Lumbar Discectomy and Decompression with a 6.9 Millimeter Cannula"; Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery; 1991; 822-831.38Search Report, dated Nov. 19, 2009, issued in EPO Application No. 01958866.4.39Sofamor Danek Video Systems Brochure.40Supplemental Search Report dated Jul. 29, 2009, issued in European Application No. 02763815.4.41Tangram Technology Ltd., "Polymer Data File: Polyether Ether Keotone-PEEK," Available at http://www.tangram.co.uk/TI-Polymer-PEEK.html, 2001, 5 pages.42U.S. Appl. No. 10/165,991, Simonson.43U.S. Appl. No. 10/788,172, filed Feb. 25, 2004, Ritland.44U.S. Appl. No. 11/425,987, Ritland.45Web pages, http://www.brainlab.com, Apr. 2, 2002; 5 pp.46Wiltse; "New Uses and Refinements of the Paraspinal Approach to the Lumbar Spine"; Spine; 1988; 13(6):696-706.47Written Opinion dated Aug. 14, 2003, issued in Application No. PCT/US02/31201.48Written Opinion dated Jun. 10, 2002, issued in Application PCT/US2001/021205.49Written Opinion dated Mar. 3, 2005, issued in Application No. PCT/US04/05751.50Written Opinion for PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US01/21205 mailed Jun. 10, 2002.Referenced byCiting PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS20120209332 *Feb 3, 2012Aug 16, 2012Pioneer Surgical Technology, Inc.Spinal Fixation System And Method* Cited by examinerClassifications U.S. Classification606/264, 606/276, 606/266International ClassificationA61B17/56, A61F2/44, A61B17/70Cooperative ClassificationA61B17/7041, A61B2017/00261, A61B17/7037, A61B2017/00238European ClassificationA61B17/70B6, A61B17/70B5BLegal EventsDateCodeEventDescriptionFeb 21, 2014REMIMaintenance fee reminder mailedJul 10, 2014FPAYFee paymentYear of fee payment: 4Jul 10, 2014SULPSurcharge for late paymentRotateOriginal ImageGoogle Home - Sitemap - USPTO Bulk Downloads - Privacy Policy - Terms of Service - About Google Patents - Send FeedbackData provided by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services