Patent ID: 10299935

Abstract:
An expanding implant (10, 10′, 10″) includes a base (12) having a contact surface (14) for contacting a first region of tissue and a displaceable portion. (24) having a contact surface (26) for contacting a second region of tissue. The base (12) has a proximal portion (16) in sliding engagement with, a distal portion (18) so as to define an arcuate path of relative motion between the proximal and distal portions. The base assumes an initial state with a first arcuate extent and is adjustable towards a second State by changing an: extent of overlap between the proximal and distal portions to vary an. arcuate extent of the base. First and second rigid linking segments (20, 22) are in articulating connection with the distal and proximal portions of the base, and with the displaceable portion such that adjustment of the base from the initial state towards the second state causes an increase in a distance between the contact surfaces of the base and the displaceable portion.