Patent Grant
11583414
This invention relates generally to bone fusion devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to devices for fusing vertebrae of the spine that can be inserted arthroscopically.
The spinal column is made up of vertebrae stacked on top of one another. Between the vertebrae are discs which are gel-like cushions that act as shock-absorbers and keep the spine flexible. Injury, disease, or excessive pressure on the discs can cause degenerative disc disease or other disorders where the disc becomes thinner and allows the vertebrae to move closer together or become misaligned. As a result, nerves may become pinched, causing pain that radiates into other parts of the body, or instability of the vertebrae may ensue.
One method for correcting disc-related disorders is to insert a fusion cage between the vertebrae to act as a structural replacement for the deteriorated disc. The fusion cage is typically a hollow metal device usually made of titanium. Once inserted, the fusion cage maintains the proper separation between the vertebrae to prevent nerves from being pinched and provides structural stability to the spine. Also, the inside of the cage is filled with bone graft material which eventually fuses permanently with the adjacent vertebrae into a single unit. The use of fusion cages for fusion and stabilization of vertebrae in the spine is known in the prior art. U.S. Pat. No. 4,961,740 to Ray, et al. entitled, “V-Thread Fusion Cage and Method of Fusing a Bone Joint,” discloses a fusion cage with a threaded outer surface, where the crown of the thread is sharp and cuts into the bone. Perforations are provided in valleys between adjacent turns of the thread. The cage can be screwed into a threaded bore provided in the bone structure at the surgical site and then packed with bone chips which promote fusion.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,015,247 to Michelson entitled, “Threaded Spinal Implant,” discloses a fusion implant comprising a cylindrical member having a series of threads on the exterior of the cylindrical member for engaging the vertebrae to maintain the implant in place and a plurality of openings in the cylindrical surface.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,342,074 to Simpson entitled, “Anterior Lumbar Underbody Fusion Implant and Method For Fusing Adjacent Vertebrae,” discloses a one-piece spinal fusion implant comprising a hollow body having an access passage for insertion of bone graft material into the intervertebral space after the implant has been affixed to adjacent vertebrae. The implant provides a pair of screw-receiving passages that are oppositely inclined relative to a central plane. In one embodiment, the screw-receiving passages enable the head of an orthopaedic screw to be retained entirely within the access passage.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,287 to Bagby entitled, “Self-tapping Interbody Bone Implant,” discloses a bone joining implant with a rigid, implantable base body having an outer surface with at least one bone bed engaging portion configured for engaging between a pair of bone bodies to be joined, wherein at least one spline is provided by the bone bed engaging portion, the spline being constructed and arranged to extend outwardly of the body and having an undercut portion.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,582,467 to Teitelbaum et al. entitled,“Expandable Fusion Cage,” discloses an expandable fusion cage where the surfaces of the cage have multiple portions cut out of the metal to form sharp barbs. As the cage is expanded, the sharp barbs protrude into the subcortical bone of the vertebrae to secure the cage in place. The cage is filled with bone or bone matrix material.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,800,550 to Sertich entitled, “Interbody Fusion Cage,” discloses a prosthetic device which includes an inert generally rectangularly shaped support body adapted to be seated on hard end plates of vertebrae. The support body has top and bottom faces. A first peg is movably mounted in a first aperture located in the support body, and the first aperture terminates at one of the top and bottom faces of the support body. Further, the first peg projects away from the one of the top and bottom faces and into an adjacent vertebra to secure the support body in place relative to the vertebra.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,436,140 to Liu et al. entitled, “Expandable Interbody Fusion Cage and Method for Insertion,” discloses an expandable hollow interbody fusion device, wherein the body is divided into a number of branches connected to one another at a fixed end and separated at an expandable end. The expandable cage may be inserted in its substantially cylindrical form and may be expanded by movement of an expansion member to establish lordosis of the spine. An expansion member interacts with the interior surfaces of the device to maintain the cage in the expanded condition and provide a large internal chamber for receiving bone in-growth material.
These patents all disclose fusion cage devices that can be inserted between vertebrae of the spine in an invasive surgical procedure. Such an invasive surgical procedure requires a long recovery period.
The present invention is a bone fusion device for insertion between bones that are to be fused together, such as, for example, the vertebrae of a spinal column. The bone fusion device comprises one or more extendable tabs. The bone fusion device is in its most compact state when the tabs are aligned with the body of the device such that the tabs lie within the exterior of the device. In this compact form, the bone fusion device is preferably inserted between the vertebrae by using an arthroscopic procedure. The bone fusion device of some embodiments is filled with bone graft material. In these embodiments, the bone graft material is typically relocated from the interior to the exterior of the bone fusion device by using a lead screw. After the device has been positioned between the vertebrae, and the lead screw is inserted to optionally deliver the bone graft material, selected tabs are extended. Preferably, two tabs are extended upon rotating a rotating means wherein extending blocks travel up the screw pushing out the angled tabs as the extending blocks approach the ends of the bone fusion device. The position of each tab relative to the bone fusion device is adjustable depending upon the configuration of the associated rotating means. In this way, the tabs are advantageously positioned in the confined space between the vertebrae to help brace the device until the bone has fused. Further, the tabs of the bone fusion device provide a larger surface area to which the bones attach and fuse during a healing period.
In some embodiments, the body of the bone fusion device is a round cylinder with end faces. The bone fusion device has conduits or holes that allow the bone graft material within the device to flow to the exterior of the device where the material contacts and grafts to the vertebrae. The extendable tabs are arranged in various configurations on the exterior of the bone fusion device, including the end faces. Preferably, the bone fusion device is rectangular and the tabs are attached to the body of the device on more than one side to optimally brace the device from multiple directions between the adjacent vertebrae. Alternatively, the bone fusion device has a rectangular shape with end faces and extendable tabs attached to multiple exterior surfaces. In some embodiments, the bone fusion device of some embodiments includes protrusions, threading, and/or sharp features on the exterior surface and/or the extendable tabs. These features are configured to engage the adjacent vertebrae to provide a tighter interface between the device and the vertebrae. In some embodiments, the tabs comprise stops to prevent the tabs from extending too far out of the body. In some embodiments, the device comprises a radio frequency identifier chip for providing information about the device and/or other information. In some embodiments, the device comprises one or more retention springs for biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the tabs comprise a plurality of nested levels that enable the extending of the tabs to comprise the telescoping of the levels in order to increase stability and the amount of extension. In some embodiments, the tabs comprise one or more tongues that increase the top surface area of the tabs such that there is more surface area to contact and fuse to the bones.
One aspect of the application is directed to a bone fusion device for insertion into a desired location. The bone fusion device comprises a body having a first end and an interior cavity, one or more tabs configured to selectively move from a retracted position within the body to an extended position extending out of the body in order to brace the bone fusion device in the desired location, a positioning element positioned through the first end of the body and substantially within the interior cavity of the body, one or more extending blocks coupled to the positioning element for moving the one or more tabs between the retracted position and the extended position and one or more retention springs configured to apply a force to the tabs biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires coupled to the body and positioned such that the wires impede a portion of the tabs from moving to the extended position thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the portion of each of the tabs comprise one or more channels that receive a portion of the wires in order to prevent the wires from slipping off of the portion of the tabs. In some embodiments, the portion of each of the tabs comprise one or more apertures through which the wires are threaded in order to secure wires to the portion of the tabs. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires each surrounding the tabs such that the wires resist separation of the tabs thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires coupled to the body and the tabs such that the wires resist movement of the tabs with respect to the body thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires each coupled to two or more of the tabs such that the wires resist separation of the two or more tabs thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more flexible portions of the body positioned such that the flexible portions of the body impede a portion of the tabs from moving to the extended position thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position.
A second aspect of the application is directed to a bone fusion device for insertion into a desired location. The bone fusion device comprises a body having a first end, an interior cavity and an inner surface having one or more recesses, one or more tabs each having one or more stops protruding from the perimeter of the tabs, wherein the tabs are configured to selectively move from a retracted position within the body to an extended position extending out of the body in order to brace the bone fusion device in the desired location, a positioning element positioned through the first end of the body and substantially within the interior cavity of the body and one or more extending blocks coupled to the positioning element for moving the one or more tabs between the retracted position and the extended position, wherein the recesses are configured to receive the stops when the tabs are inserted into the body and to prevent the tabs from separating from the body by blocking the outward movement of the stops when the tabs are in the extended position. In some embodiments, the bottom of the outward surface of each of the stops is closer to the perimeter of the tabs than the top of the outward surface of each of the stops such that each the stop comprises an angled outward face with respect to the perimeter of the tabs in order to facilitate the insertion of the stops into the recesses of the body. In some embodiments, a top portion of each of the stops is separated from the perimeter of the tabs such that the top portion is able to flex toward the perimeter of the tabs in order to facilitate the insertion of the stops into the recesses of the body. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more retention springs configured to apply a force to the stops of the tabs thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires coupled to the body and positioned such that the wires impede the stops of the tabs from moving to the extended position thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires coupled to the body and the stops of the tabs such that the wires resist movement of the tabs with respect to the body thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more wires each coupled to the stops of two or more of the tabs such that the wires resist separation of the two or more tabs thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retention springs comprise one or more flexible portions of the body positioned such that the flexible portions of the body impede the stops of the tabs from moving within the recesses when the tabs are moving toward the extended position thereby biasing the tabs in the retracted position.
Yet another aspect of the application is directed to a telescoping bone fusion device for insertion into a desired location. The telescoping bone fusion device comprises a body having a first end and an interior cavity, one or more tabs each having a plurality of nested levels configured to selectively telescope between a retracted position within the body and extended positions extending out of the body in order to brace the bone fusion device in the desired location, a positioning element positioned through the first end of the body and substantially within the interior cavity of the body and one or more extending blocks coupled to the positioning element for moving the nested levels of the one or more tabs between the retracted position and the extended positions. In some embodiments, each of the nested levels of each tab has a maximum extended position that is different than the maximum extended position of the other nested levels of the tab. In some embodiments, the distance from the body of the maximum extended position for each of the nested levels of each tab increases from the outermost nested level to the innermost nested level. In some embodiments, each of the nested levels of each tab include an inner surface having a profile that is different than the inner surface profile of the other nested levels of the tab, and further wherein at least one of the extending blocks is configured to contact the inner surfaces when moving the nested levels between the retracted position and the extended positions. In some embodiments, the one or more extending blocks comprise a plurality of upper surfaces at different heights, and further wherein the upper surfaces at each height are associated with one or more of the nested levels such that the upper surfaces of that height contact the associated nested levels when moving the nested levels between the retracted position and the extended positions. In some embodiments, the innermost nested level of each tab comprises one or more tongues that extend from the top surface of the innermost nested level to the perimeter of the tab. In some embodiments, the non-innermost nested levels of each tab comprise one or more recesses that align with the one or more tongues such that when the innermost nested level is nested within one or more of the non-innermost nested levels the tongues slide within the recesses.
Another aspect of the application is directed to a method of implanting a telescoping bone fusion device. The method comprises inserting the bone fusion device into a desired location, wherein the bone fusion device comprises a body, a positioning element, one or more extending blocks and one or more moveable tabs each having a plurality of nested levels configured to selectively telescope between a retracted position within the body and extended positions extending out of the body in order to brace the bone fusion device in the desired location, pre-configuring the one or more moveable tabs to the retracted position with the positioning element and the plurality of extending blocks such that the bone fusion device has a minimized form factor and telescoping each of the nested levels of the one or more tabs to desired extended positions by moving the plurality of extending blocks with the positioning element. In some embodiments, rotating the positioning element moves the plurality of extending blocks. In some embodiments, each of the nested levels of each tab has a maximum extended position that is different than the maximum extended position of the other nested levels of the tab. In some embodiments, the distance from the body of the maximum extended position for each of the nested levels of each tab increases from the outermost nested level to the innermost nested level. In some embodiments, each of the nested levels of each tab include an inner surface having a profile that is different than the inner surface profile of the other nested levels of the tab, and further wherein the telescoping comprises at least one of the extending blocks contacting the inner surfaces of each of the nested levels when being moved by the positioning element. In some embodiments, the one or more extending blocks comprise a plurality of upper surfaces at different heights and the upper surfaces at each height are associated with one or more of the nested levels, and further wherein the telescoping comprises the upper surfaces of the extending blocks at a height contacting the associated nested levels when being moved by the positioning element. In some embodiments, the innermost nested level of each tab comprises one or more tongues that extend from the top surface of the innermost nested level to the perimeter of the tab. In some embodiments, the non-innermost nested levels of each tab comprise one or more recesses that align with the one or more tongues such that when the innermost nested level is nested within one or more of the non-innermost nested levels the tongues slide within the recesses. In some embodiments, the method further comprises inserting a distraction instrument having an indicator and a pair of distraction plates into the desired location, separating the distraction plates and displaying information corresponding to the separation of the distraction plates with the indicator.
Another aspect of the application is directed to a bone fusion device for insertion into a desired location. The bone fusion device comprises a housing comprising first and second ends, one or more tabs for bracing the bone fusion device in a space in the desired location, each tab comprising a first tab end proximate the first end and a second tab end distal from the first end and proximate the second end, a positioning element positioned through the first end and a plurality of extending blocks coupled to the positioning element and in contact with the one or more tabs for moving the one or more tabs, wherein as the positioning element moves in a first direction the plurality of extending blocks raise the tabs toward an extended position and directly support the first tab end or the second tab end when in the extended position. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a radio frequency identification device that uniquely identifies the bone fusion device.
Another aspect of the application is directed to a method of implanting a bone fusion device in a desired location. The method comprises inserting the bone fusion device in the desired location, wherein the bone fusion device comprises a first end, a second end, an internal cavity, a positioning element, a plurality of extending blocks and one or more moveable tabs each in contact with one of the extending blocks and comprising a first tab end proximate the first end and a second tab end distal from the first end and proximate the second end and extending the one or more tabs to an extended position by moving at least one of the plurality of extending blocks toward the first end or the second end of one or more of the tabs by rotating the positioning element, wherein the at least one extending block directly supports the first tab end or the second tab end of the one or more of the tabs when the tabs are in the extended position. In some embodiments, the method further comprises inserting a distraction instrument having an indicator and a pair of distraction plates into the desired location, separating the distraction plates and displaying information corresponding to the separation of the distraction plates with the indicator.
Yet another aspect of the application is directed to a method of operating the retraction instrument for implanting a bone fusion device having one or more tabs and a positioning element. The method comprises inserting a distraction instrument having an indicator and a pair of distraction plates into a desired location, separating the distraction plates and displaying information corresponding to the separation of the distraction plates with the indicator. In some embodiments, the displayed information indicates the amount of separation between the distraction plates. In some embodiments, the displayed information indicates the amount of force resisting the distraction of the plates. In some embodiments, the displayed information indicates a size or type of bone fusion device. In some embodiments, the displayed information indicates a number of rotations that the positioning element of the bone fusion device will require in order to extend the one or more tabs such that the height of the bone fusion device equal the amount of distraction of the distraction plates. In some embodiments, the desired position comprises between one or more vertebrae. In some embodiments, the method further comprises collapsing the distraction plates together and removing the distraction instrument from the desired location.
In the following description, numerous details and alternatives are set forth for purpose of explanation. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the invention can be practiced without the use of these specific details. For instance, the figures and description below often refer to the vertebral bones of a spinal column. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that some embodiments of the invention are practiced for the fusion of other bones, including broken bones and/or joints. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order not to obscure the description of the invention with unnecessary detail.
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As further illustrated in
After insertion of the device 100 into the space between the patient's vertebrae, the surgeon selectively extends particular tabs 131-136 by rotating each selected tab's respective rotating means 111-116. The more each rotating means 111-116 is rotated, the farther its respective tab 131-136 elevates and extends outward from its initial position 121-126 along the body of the device 100. Each tab's 131-136 position is individually adjustable so as to optimally brace the device 100 between the vertebrae. Due to the compressive forces commonly associated with spinal column vertebrae, some embodiments include a range of motion for each tab that is slightly greater than 90 degrees. It was particularly discovered during the reduction to practice of this aspect of the present invention, that the tabs of these embodiments are rotated to an angle that is slightly more than about 90 degrees with respect to the surface of the bone fusion device. The tabs extended in this configuration were found to be capable of withstanding the greatest amount of compressive force.
The tabs 131-136, when extended, abut tightly against the surfaces of the vertebrae that are immediately adjacent to the bone fusion device 100. In some embodiments, the tabs 131-136 have sharp protrusions along the length of the tab for engaging the adjacent vertebrae, while the tabs 131-136 of some embodiments have screw-type threads for screwing into and engaging the vertebrae. Optionally, the tabs of some embodiments have surface texturing to encourage and enhance the growth of new bone on the tabs 131-136. This surface texturing is often similar to the surface texturing used on the main body of the device 100. Regardless of their texturing and/or particular physical characteristics, the tabs 131-136 advantageously wedge the bone fusion device 100 in a fixed position between the vertebrae and provide a larger surface area with which the adjacent vertebrae fuses during the healing period. Moreover, bone growth material, such as protein, is typically applied to the tabs 131-136 to stimulate the regeneration of bone cells needed for bone fusion. The application of bone growth material is described further in relation to
In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the tabs of the device 100 have sharp ridges or threads which bite into the adjacent vertebrae, further helping to brace the device between the vertebrae. It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that there are a number of variations for the body and the tabs 131-136 of the bone fusion device 100. For instance, the bone fusion device 100 employs different numbers and/or configurations of tabs in different embodiments. Hence, the tabs 131-136 depicted in
The end face 245 has an opening 240, which provides access to a cavity within the interior of the bone fusion device 200. In some embodiments, bone graft materials, such as the bone chips and/or the synthetic bone matrix that were mentioned above, are pre-loaded into the cavity within the bone fusion device 200 through the opening 240. Several conduits or holes 250 in the bone fusion device 200 permit the bone graft material to flow from the interior cavity to the exterior surfaces of the device 200 that are in contact with the vertebral bone. Typically, the bone graft material is relocated from the interior cavity to the exterior of the bone fusion device 200, after the device 200 has been positioned between the vertebrae. However, in some embodiments the bone graft material is delivered to the site of the bone fusion device 200 by arthroscopic means that originate external to the device 200. Regardless of the delivery means, the bone graft material and the surface texturing of the bone fusion device 200 encourage bone growth and fusion with the adjacent vertebrae that are in contact with the device 200. As bone fusion and healing progresses, the bone fusion device 200 becomes embedded within the two fused vertebrae of the spine.
During the insertion and placement of the bone fusion device 300, the tabs 321-324 are deposed in a position aligned along the body of the bone fusion device 300, such that the tabs 321-324 lie substantially within the exterior surfaces of the device 300. In some embodiments, the tabs 321-324 are flush with the exterior surface. In these embodiments, the form factor of the bone fusion device 300 is configured to be as compact as possible. For instance, the form factor of some embodiments has a diameter of approximately 0.28 inches and a length of approximately 1.0 inch. In contrast, the form factor of these same embodiments has a diameter of approximately 0.48 inches when the tabs 321-324 are fully extended.
By minimizing the space occupied, the bone fusion device 300 is advantageously inserted arthroscopically into the patient's body. If instead, the device 300 were inserted in its fully extended form, a larger surgical incision would be required, and a greater displacement of the muscles and nerves would be needed. However, its compact form factor allows the bone fusion device 300 to be inserted by advantageously utilizing minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Then, the tabs 321-324 of the bone fusion device 300 are extended after arthroscopic insertion to optimally increase the form factor and brace the device 300 between the vertebrae 330 and 335. In some embodiments, selected tabs 321-324 are extended.
While the particular embodiment described above has a rectangular shape, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the cross-section of the bone fusion device 300 has different shapes in various embodiments. For instance, a more circular bone fusion device such as the device 100 illustrated in
The tab bays 421-424 allow the tabs 431 to lie flush and/or within the exterior surface 420 of the bone fusion device 400 when not extended. Also when not extended, the tab 431 and tab bay 421 provides a conduit 450 from the interior cavity 405 to the exterior surface 420 of the bone fusion device 400, such that the bone graft and/or growth material within the interior cavity 405 has a directed path to the exterior surface 420. Typically, the insertion of the lead screw 415 forces the material within the interior cavity 405 to relocate to the exterior surface 420.
The tab 431 includes a rotating means 411 and gear teeth 455. When the tab 431 is not extended, the gear teeth 455 provide a series of passive grooves by which the lead screw 415 traverses the interior cavity 405. Typically, the tab 431 remains fixed as the lead screw 415 is screwed into the interior cavity 405. In these embodiments, the threading of the lead screw 415 does not address or affect the gear teeth 455 during the insertion of the lead screw 415.
However, the gear teeth 455 do employ the threading of the lead screw 415 when the lead screw 415 has been fully inserted into the cavity 405, in some embodiments. For instance, in a particular implementation of the invention, the lead screw 415 is driven into the cavity 405, until it reaches an endcap 406. The endcap 406 allows the lead screw 415 to continue rotating in place, but does not allow the lead screw 415 to continue its forward progress through the cavity 405. When the lead screw 415 of these embodiments rotates without making forward progress, the rotating lead screw's threading contacts and engages the gear teeth 455 of each tab 431. Accordingly, the motion and angle of the spiraling threads, when applied against the gear teeth 455, causes the tabs 431 to elevate and extend. The combination of the gear teeth 455 on the tabs 431 and the inserted lead screw 415, is referred to, in some embodiments, as a worm screw drive mechanism.
In an alternative embodiment of the worm screw drive mechanism, the rotating means 411 is turned to raise the tab 431. In these embodiments, the rotating means 411 for the tab 431 typically comprises a turn screw type mechanism such that when the rotating means 411 is turned, the gear teeth 455 drive or rotate against the stationary threads of the inserted lead screw 415. Similarly, due to the angle of the stationary lead screw's spiral threads, the gear teeth 455 cause the tab 431 to elevate and extend above the exterior surface 420 of the bone fusion device 400.
As mentioned above, the tabs 431 of some embodiments have a range of motion that exceeds 90 degrees with respect to the exterior surface 420 of the bone fusion device 400. Accordingly,
At the step 815, the bone fusion device is positioned in the region where bone fusion is to occur, also typically by using one or more arthroscopic tool(s). Once the bone fusion device is positioned in the region between the two vertebrae, the process 800 transitions to the step 820, where the lead screw is inserted and driven into the bone fusion device. The lead screw is typically driven into a cavity in the center of the bone fusion device. The cavity contains a bone growth material comprising collagen and/or a matrix for the promotion of bone growth. Accordingly, insertion of the lead screw into the cavity causes the bone growth material to be relocated from the interior cavity to the exterior surface of the bone growth device. The bone fusion device of some embodiments has a particular pattern of conduits or pores that extend from the interior cavity to the exterior surface for facilitating the relocation of bone growth material to particular locations at the exterior of the device. For instance, some embodiments have pores that facilitate the relocation of bone growth material to particular tabs.
At the step 825 of the
As further illustrated in
During the insertion and placement of the bone fusion device 1000, the tabs 1006 are deposed in a position aligned along the body of the bone fusion device 1000, such that the tabs lie substantially within the exterior surfaces of the device. In some embodiments, the tabs 1006 are flush with the exterior surface. In these embodiments, the form factor of the bone fusion device 1000 is configured to be as compact as possible. For example, the form factor of some embodiments has a diameter of approximately 0.28 inches and a length of approximately 1.0 inch. In contrast, the form factor of these same embodiments has a diameter of approximately 0.48 inches when the tabs 1006 are fully extended. In other embodiments the size could be larger or smaller as needed.
By minimizing the space occupied, the bone fusion device 1000 is advantageously inserted arthroscopically into the patient's body. If instead, the device 1000 were inserted in its fully extended form, a larger surgical incision would be required, and a greater displacement of the muscles and nerves would be needed. However, its compact form factor allows the bone fusion device 1000 to be inserted by advantageously utilizing minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Then, the tabs 1006 of the bone fusion device 1000 are extended after arthroscopic insertion to optimally increase the form factor and brace the device 1000 between the vertebrae 330 and 335.
Alternatively, the bone fusion device includes one or more pivots or any other rotating means that allows movement of the tabs wherein the one or more pivots are located at either end of the tabs.
To utilize the bone fusion device is some embodiments, it is initially configured in a compact position such that the extending block is located away from the head of the positioning means and towards the second end face thereby allowing the tabs to rest within the frame of the bone fusion device. The compact bone fusion device is then inserted into position within the patient. The surgeon is able to then the expand the bone fusion device by rotating the positioning means which moves the extending block towards the head of the positioning means and the first end face. As the extending block moves closer to the first end face, the tabs are pushed outwardly from the pressure of the extending block against the angled tabs. Eventually the extending block moves close enough to the first end face causing enough pressure between the extended tabs and the bones to be fused. At that point the bone fusion device is able to remain in place. Thereafter, material for fusing the bones together is inserted through the holes and openings within the bone fusion device.
As further illustrated in
As the positioning means 1508 is rotated causing the extending blocks 1510 and 1512 to move closer to the ends of the respective screws 1502 and 1504, the extending blocks 1510 and 1512 push the tabs 1530 outward causing the tabs 1530 to assert pressure against surrounding bones and securing the bone fusion device 1500 in place. When the extending blocks 1510 and 1512 reach as close to the head of the positioning means 1508 as allowed, the tabs 1530 are fully extended. Furthermore, since the extending blocks 1510 and 1512 travel along the positioning means 1508, along the threads of the screws 1502 and 1504, very precise positions of the tabs 1530 are able to be achieved. The tabs 1530 have serrated edges 1536 to further increase the bone fusion device's gripping ability to secure it in place between the bones.
To secure the bone fusion device 1500 in place, a user generally utilizes an implement such as a screw driver to turn the positioning means 1508. Screw drivers unfortunately have the ability to slip out of place. When performing surgery near someone's spine, it is preferable to prevent or at least minimize the slipping ability. To do so, channels 1522 are implemented to receive a tool (not shown). The tool (not shown) has attachments that fit within the channels 1522 to secure the tool (not shown) in place.
To utilize the bone fusion device in the preferred embodiment, it is initially configured in a compact position such that the extending blocks are located in the middle of the bone fusion device thereby allowing the tabs to rest within the frame of the bone fusion device. The compact bone fusion device is then inserted into position within the patient. The surgeon is able to then the expand the bone fusion device by rotating the positioning means which moves the extending blocks towards the opposing ends of the bone fusion device—one near the head of the positioning means and the other towards the tail of the positioning means. As the extending blocks move away from the middle, the tabs are pushed outwardly from the pressure of the extending block against the angled tabs. Eventually the extending blocks exert a satisfactory force between the extended tabs and the bones to be fused. At that point the bone fusion device is able to remain in place. Thereafter, material for fusing the bones together is inserted through the holes and openings within the bone fusion device.
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In some embodiments, one or more of the handle 2502, engaging element 2504 and/or the guide element 2506 comprise one or more indicators 2508 that indicate values corresponding to the current separation between the plates 2602 of the head 2404 (see
In some embodiments, the indicators 2508 indicate a number of revolutions or rotations that the positioning element of a bone fusion device will require in order to extend the tabs to the height indicated by the separation of the plates 2602. For example, in some embodiments the a user is able to input or the instrument 2400 is able to be pre-programmed with the type of bone fusion device to be used and based on this data, the indicators 2508 are able to indicate the number of rotations/revolutions that the positioning element of a bone fusion device will require in order to extend the tabs to the height indicated by the separation of the plates 2602. In some embodiments, based on the determined current separation of the plates 2602, the indicators 2508 are able to indicate a recommended size and/or type of bone fusion device to be used for filling the measured space. As a result, the distraction instrument 2400 provides the advantage of indicating the best type/size of bone fusion device to use and/or the exact amount of rotation needed to a user of a bone fusion device such that the user does not overextend the tabs of the bone fusion device.
In some embodiments, the instrument 2400 comprises a force measurement component (not shown) and/or the indicators 2508 indicate the amount of force on the plates 2602 that is resisting the expansion/distraction of the plates 2602. In such embodiments, the distraction instrument 2400 is able to be configured to prevent the user from further extending/distracting the plates 2602 when a predefined and/or adjustable force threshold value is detected by the force measurement component. For example, if the distraction is effectuated by an electronically controlled motor the distraction system is able to be configured to automatically stop when the force threshold value is detected. Alternatively, the force measurement component is able to be implemented mechanically such that the components of the instrument 2400 that effectuate the distraction of the plates 2602 prevent further distraction when a predetermined and/or adjustable amount of resistance is present. As a result, the distraction instrument 2400 provides the benefit of enabling a user to manually stop, automatically stopping and/or preventing the user for continuing to distract the plates 2602 when the force measurement component and/or indicators 2508 indicate that a predetermined amount of expansion resistant force is detected on the plates 2602. Thus, the distraction instrument 2400 prevents over distraction that which results in inaccurate measurements and possible injury.
In some embodiments, the conduit 2616 of the rear fitting 2614 is bare whereas the conduit 2616 of the front fitting 2615 has an inner threading 2618 that is operably coupled to the threaded portion 2512 of the engaging element 2504 when the engaging element 2504 is positioned within the conduits 2616 of the retraction head 2404. As a result, the engaging element 2504 is able to freely move independent of the rear fitting 2614, but causes the front fitting 2615 to move toward or away from the rear fitting 2614 along the engaging element 2504 when rotated. Alternatively, the threading 2618 of the conduit 2616 of the front fitting 2615 is able to be omitted and the engaging element 2504 is able to be otherwise coupled to the front fitting 2615 such that when the engaging element 2504 is pulled into or pushed out of the guide element 2506 the coupling causes the front fitting 2615 to correspondingly slide toward or away from the rear fitting 2614. In some embodiments, the rear fitting 2614 comprises one or more stop apertures 2617 that couple with the stop pins 2510 in order to prevent the distraction head 2402 from rotating with the engaging element 2504 and to keep the rear fitting 2614 of the rear jack assembly 2604 in contact with the end of the guide element 2506. Alternatively, the stop pins 2510 and stop apertures 2617 are able to be omitted and the rear fitting 2614 is able to be coupled to the guide element 2506 via other coupling mechanisms as are well known in the art.
The retraction plates 2602 each comprise one or more leg pin apertures 2608, a pair of fitting cavities 2610 and a plate channel 2612. The leg pin apertures 2608 are configured to rotationally couple to the leg pins 2624 such that the plates 2602 are coupled together via the front and rear jack assemblies 2604, 2606. Specifically, when the legs 2622 are caused to rotate about the protrusions 2621 (due to movement of the engaging element 2504), the legs 2622 also rotate within the leg pin apertures 2608 about the leg pins 2624 causing the plates 2602 to selectively move apart or come together. When the plates 2602 are positioned together the fitting cavities 2610 and plate channels 2612 of the upper plate 2602 align with the fitting cavities 2610 and plate channel 2612 of the lower plate 2602. As a result, the height of the retraction head 2404 in the retracted position is minimized because the rear and front fittings 2614, 2615 are able to fit within the aligned fitting cavities 2610 and the engaging element 2612 is able to fit within the aligned plate channels 2612. This provides the advantage of minimizing the size of the required surgical incision for the bone fusion surgery measurement operation.
The bone fusion device, system and method described herein has numerous advantages. Specifically, the RFID chips provide the advantage of enabling identifying and other data to be retrieved from the chips. The stops provide the advantage of preventing the tabs and/or nested levels of the tabs from falling or extending too far out of the body of the device. The retention springs provide the advantage of biasing the tabs in the retracted position such that they do not get stuck or otherwise not properly retract when the extending blocks are moved to the retracted position. The nested tab levels provide the advantage of providing increased lateral support to the tab as it is extended as well as enabling increased stable extension while still minimizing the form factor of the device in the retracted position. The tongues provide the advantage of maintaining an increased surface area of the innermost tab level for increased contact with the bones as well as enabling the inner surface profiles of the tab levels to be simplified as the raising of the outer tabs also raises the inner tabs due to the tongues. Moreover, as mentioned above, the small incision and minimally invasive (arthroscopic) surgical procedure advantageously promote health and rapid recovery by the patient. Preferably, bone growth occurs around the bone fusion device and particularly at the locations of the extended tabs, such that the bone fusion device is further secured by the bone growth, which further promotes a superior, robust bone fusion result.
The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments incorporating details to facilitate the understanding of principles of construction and operation of the invention. Such reference herein to specific embodiments and details thereof is not intended to limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modification may be made in the embodiments chosen for illustration without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/954,414, filed on Apr. 16, 2018 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/885,777, filed on Oct. 16, 2015 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/067,813, filed on Oct. 30, 2013 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/482,778, filed on May 29, 2012 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/484,379, filed on Jul. 10, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,187,332 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 7,727,280, issued on Jun. 1, 2010 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is a continuation-in-part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/264,958, filed on Nov. 1, 2005 and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” and which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/624,836, filed Nov. 3, 2004, and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Additionally, the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/482,778, claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/624,155, filed Apr. 13, 2012, and entitled “BONE FUSION DEVICE,” which is hereby incorporated by reference.
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