U.S. patent application number 10/620529 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-15 for intervertebral prosthetic joint.
Invention is credited to Eisermann, Lukas, Ray, Eddie F. III.
Application Number | 20040073312 10/620529 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36263098 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040073312 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Eisermann, Lukas ; et
al. |
April 15, 2004 |
Intervertebral prosthetic joint
Abstract
An intervertebral prosthetic joint including a first articular
component adapted to engage a first vertebra and a second articular
component adapted to engage a second vertebra. The articular
components include abutting convex and concave articular surfaces
that cooperate to permit articulating motion between the articular
components. At least one of the convex and concave articular
surfaces includes at least one surface depression that is
configured to facilitate removal of matter disposed between
abutting portions of the articular surfaces. In one embodiment of
the prosthetic joint, each of the articular components has a
vertebral bearing surface and a flange extending therefrom that is
configured to penetrate a corresponding one of the first and second
vertebrae, with the flange defining at least one opening extending
therethrough to permit bone through-growth.
Inventors: |
Eisermann, Lukas; (Memphis,
TN) ; Ray, Eddie F. III; (Collierville, TN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, McNett & Henry LLP
Bank One Center/Tower
Suite 3700
111 Monumetnt Circle
Indianapolis
IN
46204-5137
US
|
Family ID: |
36263098 |
Appl. No.: |
10/620529 |
Filed: |
July 16, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10620529 |
Jul 16, 2003 |
|
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10042589 |
Jan 9, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
623/17.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2002/30652
20130101; A61F 2310/00796 20130101; A61F 2002/30769 20130101; A61F
2002/30838 20130101; A61F 2002/30937 20130101; A61F 2002/3082
20130101; A61F 2/4611 20130101; A61F 2002/30884 20130101; A61F
2002/30662 20130101; A61F 2002/30683 20130101; A61F 2310/00023
20130101; A61F 2002/30785 20130101; A61F 2/4425 20130101; A61F
2310/00017 20130101; A61F 2002/30902 20130101; A61F 2002/30925
20130101; A61F 2310/00029 20130101; A61F 2002/30878 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
623/017.14 |
International
Class: |
A61F 002/44 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising: a first
component adapted to engage a first vertebra and including a first
articular surface; and a second component adapted to engage a
second vertebra and including a second articular surface, said
first and second articular surfaces cooperating,to permit
articulating motion between said first and second components; and
wherein at least one of said first and second articular surfaces
includes at least one surface depression configured to facilitate
removal of matter disposed between abutting portions of said first
and second articular surfaces.
2. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein said
surface depression comprises a groove extending beyond abutting
portions of said first and second articular surfaces at some point
during said articulating motion.
3. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein said
surface depression comprises an opening in communication between
said at least one of said first and second articular surfaces and a
surface remote from abutting portions of said first and second
articular surfaces.
4. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein one of
said first and second articular surfaces comprises a convex
surface, another of said first and second articular surfaces
comprises a concave surface, at least a portion of said convex
surface abutting at least a portion of said concave surface to
permit said articulating motion.
5. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 4, wherein said
convex and concave surfaces are substantially spherical-shaped.
6. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 5, wherein said
surface depression comprises a groove extending inwardly from a
circumference of at least one of said convex and concave
surfaces.
7. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 4, wherein said
surface depression comprises a groove extending along at least a
portion of said at least one of said convex and concave
surfaces.
8. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove extends inwardly from a periphery of said at least one of
said convex and concave surfaces.
9. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove extends beyond abutting portions of said convex and concave
surfaces at some point during said articulating motion.
10. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove extends across said at least one of said convex and concave
surfaces to divide said at least one of said convex and concave
surfaces into two distinct portions.
11. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 10, wherein said
distinct portions are substantially symmetrical.
12. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove extends along said at least one of said convex and concave
surfaces in a non-linear configuration.
13. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 12, wherein said
non-linear configuration is a curvilinear configuration.
14. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein a
plurality of said grooves extends along said at least one of said
convex and concave surfaces.
15. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove extends along an outer contour of said at least one of said
convex and concave surfaces.
16. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 7, wherein said
groove has a length and a width, said length being greater than
said width.
17. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 4, wherein said
surface depression comprises an opening in communication between
said one of said convex and concave surfaces and a surface remote
from said abutting portions of said first and second convex and
concave surfaces.
18. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 15, wherein said
remote surface is a vertebral bearing surface configured to engage
a corresponding one of the first and second vertebrae.
19. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 4, wherein a
portion of said convex surface is flattened to form said surface
depression.
20. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 4, wherein at
least one of said convex and concave surfaces is at least partially
surrounded by a tapered surface to limit said articulating motion
within a predetermined range of motion.
21. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 20, wherein said
tapered surface is a conical surface extending entirely about said
at least one of said convex and concave surfaces.
22. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein each of
said first and second components includes at least one channel
configured to accept a corresponding portion of an insertion tool
therein to maintain said first and second components at a
predetermined position and at a predetermined orientation relative
to one another during insertion of the prosthetic joint between the
first and second vertebrae.
23. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein each of
said first and second components includes a vertebral bearing
surface and a flange extending from said vertebral bearing surface,
said flange being adapted to penetrate a corresponding one of the
first and second vertebrae, said flange defining at least one
opening, therethrough to permit bone growth through said
flange.
24. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 1, wherein the
matter comprises particulate material.
25. An intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising: a first
articular component adapted to engage a first vertebra and
including a projection; and a second articular component adapted to
engage a second vertebra and including a recess, at least a portion
of said projection being disposed within said recess to permit
articulating motion between said first and second components; and
wherein at least one of said projection and said recess defines at
least one cavity configured to facilitate removal of matter
disposed between said projection and said recess.
26. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 25, wherein said
projection includes a convex surface, and wherein said recess
includes a concave surface, at least a portion of said convex
surface abutting at least a portion of said concave recess to
permit said articulating motion.
27. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 26, wherein said
cavity comprises a flattened portion extending along at least a
portion of said generally convex surface.
28. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 26, wherein said
cavity comprises a groove extending along at least a portion of at
least one of said convex and concave surfaces.
29. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 26, wherein said
cavity comprises an opening communicating between said one of said
convex and concave surfaces and a surface remote from said at least
one of said convex and concave surfaces.
30. An intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising: a first
articular component having a bearing surface adapted to engage a
first vertebra; and a second articular component having a bearing
surface adapted to engage a second vertebra; and wherein each of
said first and second articular components includes a flange
extending from said bearing surface and configured to penetrate a
corresponding one of the first and second vertebrae, said flange
defining at least one opening therethrough to permit bone growth
through said flange.
31. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 30, wherein said
flange is positioned within a preformed opening in said
corresponding one of the first and second vertebrae.
32. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 31, wherein said
flange has a length and is tapered along at least a portion of said
length to facilitate insertion of said flange into said preformed
opening.
33. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 31, wherein said
flange has a leading end, said leading end defining a beveled
surface to facilitate insertion of said flange into said preformed
opening.
34. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 30, wherein each
of said first and second articular components includes an articular
surface disposed generally opposite said bearing surface, said
articular surfaces cooperating to permit articulating motion
between said first and second components.
35. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 34, wherein at
least one of said articular surfaces includes at least one surface
depression to facilitate removal of matter disposed between said
articular surfaces.
36. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 35, wherein said
surface depression is a groove extending along said at least one of
said articular surfaces.
37. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 36, wherein one of
said first and second articular surfaces comprises a convex
surface, another of said first and second articular surfaces
comprises a concave surface, at least a portion of said convex
surface abutting at least a portion of said concave surface to
permit said articulating motion, said groove extending beyond said
abutting portions of said convex and concave surfaces at some point
during said articulating motion.
38. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 30, wherein said
flanges are coated with a bone-growth promoting substance to
facilitate bone growth onto said flanges.
39. The intervertebral prosthetic joint of claim 30, wherein said
flange defines a plurality of said openings therethrough.
40. An intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising: a first
articular component including means for engaging a first vertebra;
and a second articular component including means for engaging a
second vertebra; and wherein said first and second articular
components include surface means for permitting articulating motion
therebetween, said surface means including means for removing
matter disposed between abutting portions of said first and second
articular components.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of
spinal implants, and more particularly relates to an intervertebral
prosthetic joint for use in the total or partial replacement of a
natural intervertebral disc.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the treatment of diseases, injuries or malformations
affecting spinal motion segments, and especially those affecting
disc tissue, it has long been known to remove some or all of a
degenerated, ruptured or otherwise failing disc. In cases involving
intervertebral disc tissue that has been removed or is otherwise
absent from a spinal motion segment, corrective measures are
indicated to insure the proper spacing of the vertebrae formerly
separated by the removed disc tissue.
[0003] In some instances, the two adjacent vertebrae are fused
together using transplanted bone tissue, an artificial fusion
component, or other compositions or devices. Spinal fusion
procedures, however, have raised concerns in the medical community
that the bio-mechanical rigidity of intervertebral fusion may
predispose neighboring spinal motion segments to rapid
deterioration. More specifically, unlike a natural intervertebral
disc, spinal fusion prevents the fused vertebrae from pivoting and
rotating with respect to one another. Such lack of mobility tends
to increase stresses on adjacent spinal motion segments.
Additionally, several conditions may develop within adjacent spinal
motion segments, including disc degeneration, disc herniation,
instability, spinal stenosis, spondylosis and facet joint
arthritis. Consequently, many patients may require additional disc
removal and/or another type of surgical procedure as a result of
spinal fusion. Alternatives to spinal fusion are therefore
desirable.
[0004] Several different types of intervertebral disc arthroplasty
devices have been proposed for preventing the collapse of the
intervertebral space between adjacent vertebrae while maintaining a
certain degree of stability and range of pivotal and rotational
motion therebetween. Such devices typically include two or more
articular elements that are attached to respective upper and lower
vertebrae. The articular elements are anchored to the upper and
lower vertebrae by a number of methods, including the use of bone
screws that pass through corresponding openings in each of the
elements and thread into vertebral bone, and/or by the inclusion of
spikes or teeth that penetrate the vertebral endplates to inhibit
migration or expulsion of the device. The articular elements are
typically configured to allow the elements, and correspondingly the
adjacent vertebrae, to pivot and/or rotate relative to one
another.
[0005] As discussed above, prior intervertebral disc arthroplasty
devices are relatively difficult to implant between adjacent
vertebrae. To implant such devices, the adjacent vertebrae are
spread apart a distance that is somewhat greater than the normal
distance separating the vertebrae so that the device can be
maneuvered between the vertebrae and the anchors can be engaged to
the vertebral endplates. Such an operation presents a risk of
injury to the vertebrae caused by misplacement and/or scratching of
the vertebral endplates or other tissue by the anchors. Such
operation also presents a risk of injury resulting from
over-distraction of the intervertebral space. As also discussed
above, other types of prior arthroplasty devices require the
threading of bone screws or another type of fastener into the
adjacent vertebrae. However, this type of anchoring method requires
precise placement and orientation of the bone screws to provide
adequate anchoring and to avoid injury to adjacent tissue or
vertebral structures. Moreover, prior arthroplasty devices are
prone to increased wear or possible malfunctioning if debris or
particulate matter becomes lodged between the articular
elements.
[0006] Thus, there is a general need in the industry to provide an
improved intervertebral prosthetic joint. The present invention
satisfies this need and provides other benefits and advantages in a
novel and unobvious manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention relates generally to an intervertebral
prosthetic joint. While the actual nature of the invention covered
herein can only be determined with reference to the claims appended
hereto, certain forms of the invention that are characteristic of
the preferred embodiments disclosed herein are described briefly as
follows.
[0008] One form of the present invention is directed to an
intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising a first component
adapted to engage a first vertebra and including a first articular
surface, and a second component adapted to engage a second vertebra
and including a second articular surface, with the first and second
articular surfaces cooperating to permit articulating motion
between the first and second components, and with at least one of
the first and second articular surfaces including at least one
surface depression configured to facilitate removal of matter
disposed therebetween.
[0009] Another form of the present invention is directed to an
intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising a first articular
component adapted to engage a first vertebra and including a
projection, and a second articular component adapted to engage a
second vertebra and including a recess, with at least a portion of
the projection being disposed within the recess to permit
articulating motion between the first and second components, and
with at least one of the projection and the recess defining at
least one passage configured to facilitate removal of matter
disposed therebetween.
[0010] Another form of the present invention is directed to an
intervertebral prosthetic joint, comprising a first articular
component having a bearing surface adapted to engage a first
vertebra, and a second articular component having a bearing surface
adapted to engage a second vertebra, with each of the first and
second articular components including a flange extending from the
bearing surface and adapted to penetrate a corresponding one of the
first and second vertebrae, and wherein the flange defines at least
one opening extending therethrough to permit bone
through-growth.
[0011] It is one object of the present invention to provide an
improved intervertebral prosthetic joint. Further objects,
features, advantages, benefits, and aspects of the present
invention will become apparent from the drawings and description
contained herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an intervertebral prosthetic
joint according to one form of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the intervertebral prosthetic
joint illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a front view of a ball component according to one
embodiment of the present invention for use with the intervertebral
prosthetic joint illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of the ball component illustrated in
FIG. 3.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a top view of the ball component illustrated in
FIG. 3.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the ball component illustrated in
FIG. 3.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the ball component illustrated
in FIG. 5, taken along line-7-7 of FIG. 5.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the ball component illustrated
in FIG. 5, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a front view of a socket component according to
one embodiment of the present invention for use with the
intervertebral prosthetic joint illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a side view of the socket component illustrated
in FIG. 9.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a top view of the socket component illustrated in
FIG. 9.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the socket component illustrated
in FIG. 9.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the socket component
illustrated in FIG. 12, taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12.
[0025] FIG. 14 is a top view of,a ball component according to
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 15 is a sectional view of an intervertebral prosthetic
joint according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a sectional view of an intervertebral prosthetic
joint according to a further embodiment of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a lateral view of a portion of the spinal column,
illustrating a pair of adjacent upper and lower vertebrae separated
by a natural intervertebral disc.
[0029] FIG. 18 is an anterior view of the portion of the spinal
column shown in FIG. 17, illustrating the removal of portions of
the upper and lower vertebrae to accommodate insertion of the
intervertebral prosthetic joint illustrated in FIG. 1
therebetween.
[0030] FIG. 19 is a lateral view of the portion of the spinal
column shown in FIG. 18.
[0031] FIG. 20 is an anterior view of the portion of the spinal
column shown in FIG. 18, illustrating implantation of the
intervertebral prosthetic joint between the upper and lower
vertebrae.
[0032] FIG. 21 is a partial sectional view of the portion of the
spinal column shown in FIG. 18, illustrating implantation of the
intervertebral prosthetic joint between the upper and lower
vertebrae.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is hereby
intended, such alterations and further modifications in the
illustrated devices, and such further applications of the
principles of the invention as illustrated herein being
contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to
which the invention relates.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, shown therein is an intervertebral
prosthetic joint 30 according to one form of the present invention.
The articulating joint 30 extends generally along a longitudinal
axis L and includes a first articular component 32 and a second
articular component 34. The articular components 32, 34 cooperate
to form the articulating joint 30 which is sized and configured for
disposition within an intervertebral space between adjacent
vertebral bodies.
[0035] The articulating joint 30 provides relative pivotal and
rotational movement between the adjacent vertebral bodies to
maintain or restore motion substantially similar to the normal
bio-mechanical motion provided by a natural intervertebral disc.
More specifically, the articular components 32, 34 are permitted to
pivot relative to one another about a number of axes, including
lateral or side-to-side pivotal movement about longitudinal axis L
and anterior-posterior pivotal movement about a transverse axis T.
It should be understood that in a preferred embodiment of the
invention, the articular components 32, 34 are permitted to pivot
relative to one another about any axes that lies in a plane that
intersects longitudinal axis L and transverse axis T. Additionally,
the articular components 32, 34 are preferably permitted to rotate
relative to one another about a rotational axis R. Although the
articulating joint 30 has been illustrated and described as
providing a specific combination of articulating motion, it should
be understood that other combinations of articulating movement are
also possible and are contemplated as falling within the scope of
the present invention. It should also be understood that other
types of articulating movement are also contemplated, such as, for
example, relative translational or linear motion.
[0036] Although the articular components 32, 34 of prosthetic joint
30 may be formed from a wide variety of materials, in one
embodiment of the invention, the articular components 32, 34 are
formed of a cobalt-chrome-molybdenum metallic alloy (ASTM F-799 or
F-75). However, in alternative embodiments of the invention, the
articular components 32, 34 may be formed of other metallic
materials such as titanium or stainless steel, a polymeric material
such as polyethylene, or any other biocompatible material that
would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. The surfaces
of the articular components 32, 34 that are positioned in direct
contact with vertebral bone are preferably coated with a
bone-growth promoting substance, such as, for example, a
hydroxyapatite coating formed of calcium phosphate. Additionally,
the surface of the articular components 32, 34 that are positioned
in direct contact with vertebral bone are preferably roughened
prior to being coated with the bone-growth promoting substance to
further enhance bone on-growth. Such surface roughening may be
accomplished by way of, for example, acid etching, knurling,
application of a bead coating, or other methods of roughening that
would occur to one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 3-8, shown therein are various details
regarding the articular component 32. Articular component 32
includes a support plate 50 having an articular surface 52 and an
opposite bearing surface 54. Support plate 50 is preferably sized
and shaped to substantially correspond to the size and shape of the
vertebral endplate of an adjacent vertebra. The articular surface
52 and the bearing surface 54 are separated by a pair of laterally
facing surfaces 56a, 56b and a pair of axially facing surfaces 58a,
58b. The laterally facing surfaces 56a, 56b. each preferably define
a channel 57 extending along at least a portion of the length of
the support plate 50. The channels 57 are configured to engage a
corresponding portion of a surgical instrument (not shown) to aid
in the manipulation and insertion of the prosthetic joint 30 within
an intervertebral space between adjacent vertebrae. The surgical
instrument (not shown) is preferably configured to hold the
articular components 32, 34 at a predetermined orientation and
spatial relationship relative to one another during manipulation
and insertion of the prosthetic joint 30, and to release the
articular components 32, 34 once properly positioned between the
adjacent vertebrae.
[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the articular
surface 52 includes a projection 60 surrounded by a substantially
planar surface 62. In one embodiment of the invention, the
projection 60 has a convex shape and is preferably configured as a
spherical-shaped ball. In another embodiment of the invention, the
spherical-shaped surface of the projection has a large enough
radius of curvature such that the axis about which the articular
components 32, 34 pivot relative to one another is located at or
below the planar surface 62 (i.e., the center of curvature is
located at or below planar surface 62). However, it should be
understood that the pivot axis may alternatively be positioned
above the planar surface 62. It should also be understood that
other configurations of the projection 60 are also contemplated,
such as, for example, cylindrical, elliptical or other arcuate
configurations or possibly non-arcuate configurations. It should
also be understood that the planar surface 62 may take on
non-planar configurations, such as, for example, an angular or
conical configuration extending about the projection 60.
[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the convex
articular surface of the projection 60 is interrupted by a surface
depression or cavity 70 extending along the projection 60. In one
embodiment of the invention, the surface depression 70 is
configured as a groove. However, as will be discussed in further
detail below, it should be understood that other types of surface
depressions are also contemplated. One purpose of the groove 70 is
to facilitate the removal of matter disposed between abutting
portions of the articular components 32, 34. More specifically, the
groove 70 provides a means for clearing out matter such as, for
example, particulate material, that is disposed between the
abutting articular surfaces of components 32, 34.
[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the groove 70 extends
along the convex surface of the spherical-shaped ball 60 in such a
manner as to divide the ball 60 into two substantially symmetrical
portions 60a, 60b, with each portion extending about approximately
180.degree. of the overall circumference or periphery of the ball
60. However, it should be understood that the groove 70 may take on
other configurations as well. For example, the groove 70 need not
necessarily uniformly divide the ball 60 into symmetrical halves,
but may alternatively be positioned at other locations along ball
60 and arranged at other angular orientations relative to ball 60.
It should further be understood that the groove 70 need not
necessarily extend entirely across the ball 60, but may
alternatively extend across only a portion of the ball 60. For
example, the groove 70 may extend across the ball 60 in such a
manner that only a portion of the groove 70 extends beyond abutting
portions of the articular components 32, 34 at some point during
the articulating motion of joint 30. Additionally, it should be
understood that the groove 70 need not necessarily have a
linear-configuration, but may alternatively take on angular
configurations or non-linear configurations, such as, for example,
the curvilinear configuration illustrated in FIG. 14. It should
also be understood that any number of grooves 70 may be defined
along the periphery of the ball 60, such as two or more grooves 70
arranged in a uniform manner or alternatively in a random or
semi-random pattern, as also illustrated in FIG. 14. In one
specific embodiment of the invention, the groove 70 is
approximately 0.75 mm deep and approximately 0.4 mm wide and has a
radiused bottom surface. However, it should be understood that
other sizes and configurations of the groove 70 are contemplated as
falling within the scope of the present invention.
[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing surface 54
is substantially planar and is oriented at an angle .alpha.
relative to the planar surface 62 to define an outward taper
extending from axial surface 58a toward axial surface 58b. In one
embodiment, angle .alpha. falls within a range of 0 degrees to
about 10 degrees. In a specific embodiment, angle .alpha. is about
3 degrees. In another specific embodiment, angle .alpha. is about 6
degrees. However, it should be understood that angle .alpha. may
take on other values that correspond to the particular lordotic
angle or morphology of the portion of the spinal column in which
the prosthetic joint 30 is used. It should further be understood
that the bearing surface 54 may be configured to accommodate spinal
abnormalities such as scoliosis. In such case, the bearing surface
54 may be angled relative to the planar surface 62 to define a
taper extending between the lateral surfaces 56a, 56b. It should
also be understood that the bearing-surface 54 may take on
alternative configurations, such as, for example, a curved or
arcuate configuration that corresponds to the particular contour of
the adjacent vertebral endplate against which surface 54 abuts. It
should likewise be understood that bearing surface 54 may be
roughened and/or may define a number of surface projections to aid
in gripping the vertebral endplate and to inhibit migration of the
prosthetic joint 30 relative to the adjacent vertebra.
[0042] A flange member or keel 80 extends from the bearing surface
54 and is configured for disposition within a preformed opening in
the adjacent vertebral endplate. In one embodiment, the keel 80
extends perpendicularly from the bearing surface 54 and is
approximately centrally located along the bearing surface 54.
However, it should be understood that other positions and
orientations of the keel 80 are also contemplated. It should also
be understood that the articular component 32 may include two or
more keels 80 extending from the bearing surface 54.
[0043] The keel 80 extends from a location adjacent the axially
facing surface 58a toward the axially facing surface 58b along a
substantial portion of the support plate 50. Preferably, the keel
80 extends along substantially the entire length of the support
plate 50. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the keel 80 is preferably
wedge-shaped, defining an outward taper as the keel 80 extends from
a leading or insertion end 80a towards a trailing end 80b. In one
specific embodiment, the outward taper is about 4 degrees. However,
other taper angles are also contemplated. It should also be
understood that the keel 80 need not necessarily be tapered along
it length. As will become apparent, the outward taper aids in the
insertion of the keel 80 within preformed openings in the adjacent
vertebrae. Additionally, the insertion end 80a of keel 80 includes
a beveled surface 82 to further aid in the implantation of the
prosthetic joint 30.
[0044] In another embodiment of the invention, the keel 80 may
alternatively extend between the laterally facing surface 56a, 56b
along a substantial portion of the support plate 50. Such an
embodiment would accomodate insertion of the prosthetic joint 30
using a lateral approach as opposed to the anterior approach
illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21. In a further embodiment of the
invention, the keel 80 may be tapered along its height, either
tapering inwardly from bearing surface 54 to define a wedge shape
or tapering outwardly from bearing surface 54 to define a dove-tail
shape. In still another embodiment, the keel 80 may be configured
as a winged keel, including a transverse portion extending across
the main body portion of keel 80.
[0045] The keel 80 also includes a pair of openings 86 extending
therethrough to facilitate bone through-growth to enhance fixation
to the adjacent vertebra. However, it should be understood that any
number of openings 86 may be defined through keel 80, including a
single opening or three or more openings. It should also be
understood that the openings 86 need not necessarily extend
entirely through the keel 80, but may alternatively extend
partially, therethrough. It should further be understood that the
keel 80 need not necessarily define any openings 86 extending
either partially or entirely therethrough. Additionally, although
the openings 86 are illustrated as having a circular configuration,
it should be understood that other sizes and, configures of
openings 86 are also contemplated. As discussed above, the surfaces
of the articular component 32 that are in direct contact with
vertebral bone are preferably coated with a bone-growth promoting
substance. Specifically, the bearing surface 54 and the surfaces of
the keel 80 are preferably coated with hydroxyapatite to promote
bony engagement with the adjacent vertebrae. As also discussed
above, the bearing surface 54 and the surfaces of keel 80 are
preferably roughened prior to application of the hydroxyapatite
coating.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 9-13, shown therein are various details
regarding the articular component 34. Articular component 34
includes a support plate 100 having an articular surface 102 and an
opposite bearing surface 104. Support plate 100 is preferably sized
and shaped to substantially correspond to the size and shape of the
vertebral endplate of an adjacent vertebra. The articular surface
102 and the bearing surface 104 are separated by a pair of
laterally facing surfaces 106a, 106b and a pair of axially facing
surfaces 108a, 108b. The laterally facing surfaces 106a, 106b each
preferably define a channel 107 extending along at least a portion
of the length of the support plate 100. Similar to channels 57 of
articular element 32, channels 107 are configured to engage a
corresponding portion of a surgical instrument (not shown) to aid
in the manipulation and insertion of the prosthetic joint 30.
[0047] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the articular
surface 102 includes a recess 110 surrounded by a substantially
conical surface 112. In one embodiment of the invention, the recess
110 has a concave shape, and is preferably configured as a
spherical-shaped socket. However, it should be understood that
other configurations of the recess 110 are also contemplated, such
as, for example, cylindrical, elliptical or other arcuate
configurations or possibly non-arcuate configurations. Conical
surface 112 is tapered at an angle .theta. relative to a plane
oriented parallel with the planar surface 52 of articular component
32 in such a manner as to define a uniform taper extending entirely
about the concave recess 10. In this manner, relative pivotal
motion between the articular components 32, 34 is limited to
approximately .+-. angle .theta.. In one embodiment, the angle
.theta. falls within a range of about 10 degrees to about 20
degrees, thereby limiting the overall relative pivotal motion
between the articular components 32, 34 within a range of just over
20 degrees to just over 40 degrees. In a specific embodiment, angle
.theta. is about 16 degrees, thereby limiting the overall pivotal
motion between the articular components 32, 34 to just over 32
degrees. As will become apparent, angle .theta. may take on other
values that correspond to the desired amount of relative pivotal
movement between the articular components 32, 34. It should also be
understood that the conical surface 112 may take on other
configurations, such as, for example, an angular configuration
extending about the concave recess 10. It should also be understood
that the surface 112 could alternatively be configured as a planar
surface oriented parallel with the bearing surface 104, and that
the surface 52 of articular component 32 could alternatively be
configured as a conical or angled surface tapered at an angle
.theta., or that both of the surfaces 52, 112 could alternatively
be configured as conical or angled surfaces tapered at a
predetermined angle .theta.. In an embodiment where both of the
surfaces 52, 112 are tapered at a predetermined angle .theta., the
angle .theta. is preferably about 8 degrees, thereby limiting the
overall pivotal motion between the articular components 32, 34 to
just over 32 degrees.
[0048] Although the concave recess 110 is illustrated as having a
generally smooth, uninterrupted articular surface, it should be
understood that a surface depression or cavity may be defined along
a portion of the recess 110 to provide a means for clearing out
matter, such as particulate debris, that is disposed between the
abutting articular surfaces of components 32, 34. In such case, the
convex articular surface of the ball 60 may alternatively define a
generally smooth, uninterrupted articular surface. In another
embodiment of the invention, each of the convex projection 60 and
the concave recess 110 may define a surface depression to
facilitate removal of particulate matter disposed between the
abutting articular surfaces.
[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing surface 104
is substantially planar and is oriented at an angle .alpha.,
similar to that of bearing surface 54 of articular component 32, to
define an outward taper extending from axial surface 108a toward
axial surface 108b. However, it should be understood that bearing
surface 104 may take on alternative configurations, such as, for
example, a curved or arcuate configuration that corresponds to the
particular contour of the adjacent vertebral endplate against which
surface 104 abuts. It should further be understood that the bearing
surface 104 may be configured to accommodate spinal abnormalities
such as scoliosis. In such case, the bearing surface 104 may be
angled to define a taper extending between the lateral surfaces
106a, 106b. It should additionally be understood that the bearing
surface 104 may be roughened and/or may define a number of surface
projections to aid in gripping the vertebral endplate and to
inhibit migration of the prosthetic joint 30 relative to the
adjacent vertebra.
[0050] A flange member or keel 120, configured similar to the keel
80 of articular component 32, extends from the bearing surface 104.
In one embodiment, the keel 120 extends perpendicularly from the
bearing surface 104 and is approximately centrally located along
bearing surface 104. However, it should be understood that other
positions and orientations of the keel 120 are also contemplated.
It should also be understood that the articular component 34 may
include two or more keels 120 extending from the bearing surface
104.
[0051] The keel 120 extends from a location adjacent axially facing
surface 108a toward axially facing surface 108b, preferably along a
substantial portion of the support plate 100. As illustrated in
FIG. 11, the keel 120 is preferably wedge-shaped, defining an
outward taper as the keel 100 extends from a leading or insertion
end 120a to trailing end 120b. Additionally, the insertion end 120a
of keel 120 includes a beveled surface 122 to further aid in the
implantation of the prosthetic joint 30. In another embodiment of
the invention, the keel 120 may alternatively extend between the
laterally facing surface 106a, 106b along a substantial portion of
the support plate 100 to accommodate for insertion of the
prosthetic joint 30 between adjacent vertebral bodies using a
lateral approach. In a further embodiment of the invention, the
keel 120 may be tapered along its height, either tapering inwardly
from the bearing surface 104 to define a wedge shape or tapering
outwardly from bearing surface 104 to define a dove-tail shape. In
still another embodiment, the keel 120 may be, configured as a
winged keel, including a transverse portion extending across the
main body portion of keel 120.
[0052] Keel 120 includes a pair of openings 126 extending
therethrough to facilitate bone through-growth to enhance fixation
to the adjacent vertebra. However, it should be understood that any
number of openings 126 may be defined through the keel 120,
including a single opening or three or more openings. It should
also be understood that the openings 126 need not necessarily
extend entirely through keel 120, but may alternatively extend
partially therethrough. It should further be understood that the
keel 120 need not necessarily define any openings 126 extending
either partially or entirely therethrough. As discussed above, the
surfaces of the articular component 34 that are in direct contact
with vertebral bone are preferably coated with a bone-growth
promoting substance, such as, for example, a hydroxyapatite
coating. As also discussed above, the surfaces of the articular
component 34 that are in direct contact with vertebral bone are
preferably roughened prior to application of the bone-growth
promoting substance.
[0053] Referring once again to FIG. 2, the projection or ball 60 of
articular component 32 is at least partially disposed within the
recess or socket 110 of articular component 34. The convex and
concave articular surfaces of ball 60 arid socket 110 abut one
another in such a manner as to provide relative articulating motion
between the articular components 32, 34. Specifically, the
articular components 32, 34 are allowed to pivot and rotate
relative to one another to maintain or restore motion substantially
similar to the normal biomechanical motion provided by a natural
intervertebral disc. The relative pivotal motion between the
articular components 32, 34 is limited by the abutment of the
conical surface 112 of component 34 against the planar surface 62
of component 32. During the articulating motion, the groove 70
formed along the ball 60 provides a passage for removing any
matter, such as particulate debris, that may become lodged between
the abutting articular surfaces of the components 32, 34. The
groove 70 channels any such debris clear from the interfacing
articular surfaces of the prosthetic joint 30 to prevent or at
least reduce wear which otherwise might occur if foreign particles
and/or built-up wear debris were to remain between the abutting
portions of the articular surfaces.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, shown therein are
intervertebral prosthetic joints according to other embodiments of
the present invention. With regard to FIG. 15, shown therein is a
prosthetic joint 130 including a first articular element 132 and a
second articular element 134. Articular elements 132, 134 are
similar to articular components 32, 34 in many respects except that
the convex ball 160 of articular component 132 includes a flattened
portion 170 extending along a portion of ball 160. The flattened
portion 170 serves substantially the same purpose as the groove 70
extending along the ball 60; namely, to provide a means for
removing any particulate debris that may become lodged between the
abutting articular surfaces of components 132, 134. Although the
flattened portion 170 is located at the approximate center of ball
160, it should be understood that the flattened portion 170 may be
located anywhere along ball 160. It should also be understood that
any number of flattened portions 170 may be formed along the ball
160, and that the ball 160 may include a combination of grooves 70
and flattened portions 170 to facilitate the removal of matter
disposed between the abutting articular surfaces.
[0055] With regard to FIG. 16, shown therein is a prosthetic joint
230 including a first articular element 232 and a second articular
element 234. Articular elements 232, 234 are similar to articular
components 32, 34 in many respects except that the concave recess
240 of articular component 234 includes an opening 270 formed
therein. The opening 270 serves substantially the same purpose as
the groove 70 extending along the ball 60; namely, to provide a
means for removing any particulate debris that may become lodged
between the abutting articular surfaces of components 232, 234.
Preferably, the opening 270 extends through the support plate 100
of the articular component 234 to channel any particulate debris
that may become lodged between the abutting articular surfaces away
from the ball-and-socket joint. The opening 270 may also extend
through the keel 120 of the articular component 234. Although the
opening 270 is illustrated as being located at the approximate
center of the socket 240, it should be understood that the opening
270 may be located anywhere along socket 240 and at any orientation
relative to socket 240. It should also be understood that any
number of openings 270 may be formed along socket 240, and that the
socket 240 may include a combination of grooves 70 and openings 270
to facilitate the removal of matter disposed between the abutting
articular surfaces.
[0056] In further embodiments of the invention, either or both of
the convex and concave articular surfaces of the components 32, 34
may define other types and configurations of surface depressions.
For example, the surface depressions may be configured as multiple
indentations or dimpling extending along one or both of the
articular surfaces. In one specific embodiment, the convex
articular surface may include multiple surface depressions such as
may be found on the outer surface of a golf ball. However, it
should be understood that many types and configurations of surface
depressions may be used.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 17, shown therein is a lateral view of a
portion of the spinal column, illustrating a pair of adjacent upper
and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L separated by a natural
intervertebral disc D. As discussed above, in cases where the
natural intervertebral disc D is diseased or degenerated, the
natural disc D is typically removed via a discectomy or a similar
surgical procedure, the details of which would be known to one of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0058] As illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, removal of the-diseased
or degenerated disc D results in the formation of an intervertebral
space S between the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L. To
accommodate insertion of the prosthetic joint 30 within the
intervertebral space S, preparation of the upper and lower
vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L is required to accept the prosthetic
joint 30 therebetween. Specifically, elongate openings or slots 300
are formed along the vertebral endplates of the upper and lower
vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L at a predetermined width w and to a
predetermined depth d. In one embodiment of the invention, the
elongate slots 300 are rectangular-shaped and extend from an
anterior side 302 of the vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L toward a
posterior side 304 of the vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L. In a specific
embodiment, the slots 300 are formed by chiseling or curetting.
However, other methods of forming slots 300 are also contemplated
as would occur to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as, for
example, by drilling or reaming. In a preferred embodiment of the
invention, the width w of the slots 300 is equal to or somewhat
less than the corresponding width of the keels 80, 120 of articular
components 32, 34. Additionally, the depth d of the slots 300 is
preferably approximately equal to or slightly greater than the
length of the keels 80, 120.
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, following preparation of the
intervertebral space S, the articular components 32, 34 are
inserted between the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L.
First, the articular components 32, 34 are placed in a
predetermined relationship with respect to one another, preferably
by an insertion instrument (not shown) or an equivalent tool that
is adapted to engage the channels 57, 107 formed along a length of
the support plates 50, 100. The insertion instrument (not shown)
holds the articular components 32, 34 in a predetermined spatial
relationship and at a predetermined orientation with respect to one
another. The prosthetic joint 30 is inserted between the upper and
lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L in a direction generally along the
longitudinal axis L, with the keels 80, 120 of components 32, 34
being axially displaced along the slots 300. Notably, since the
keels 80, 120 are axially displaced through the preformed slots
300, distraction of the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L
to accommodate insertion of the prosthetic joint 30 is minimized,
if not eliminated entirely.
[0060] As discussed above, the keels 80, 120 are tapered or
wedge-shaped to facilitate insertion within the slots 300. The
taper angle defined by each of the support plates 50, 100 also
facilitates insertion of the prosthetic joint 30 within the
intervertebral space S. Since the width w of the slots 300 is equal
to or somewhat less than the corresponding width of the keels 80,
120, the keels 80, 120 are effectively wedged within the slots 300.
The depth d of the slots 300 formed in the upper and lower
vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L correspondingly controls the positioning
of the prosthetic joint 30 within the intervertebral space S.
Specifically, proper positioning of the prosthetic joint 30 is
accomplished when the insertion ends 80a, 120a of the keels 80, 120
bottom out against the end surfaces of slots 300. Controlling the
insertion depth of the prosthetic joint 30 results in more precise
positioning to avoid over-insertion or under-insertion of
prosthetic joint 30. As discussed above, the angular positioning of
the articular components 32, 34 relative to one another is dictated
by the geometry of the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L
and the particular location within the spinal column. As should be
apparent, the distance between the support plates 50, 100 should be
approximately equal to the height of the removed disc D, and the
angular disposition of the support plates 50, 100 is dictated by
the particular curvature or lordosis of the spinal column.
[0061] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the
prosthetic joint 30 is implanted in the intervertebral space S via
an anterior approach. However, it should be understood that the
slots 300 may alternatively extend from the posterior side 304 of
the vertebrae. V.sub.U, V.sub.L toward the anterior side 302 at a
depth d, and the prosthetic joint 30 may alternatively be implanted
in the intervertebral space S via a posterior approach. It should
also understood that the slots 300 may alternatively extend from a
first lateral side of the vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L toward the
opposite lateral side of the vertebrae at a depth d, and the
prosthetic joint 30 may alternatively be implanted in the
intervertebral space S via a lateral approach.
[0062] Once the prosthetic Joint 30 is inserted within the
intervertebral space S, the articular components 32, 34 are
initially secured to the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L
via the disposition of the keels 80, 120 within the slots 300
formed in the vertebrae V.sub.u, V.sub.L and by the compression
forces exerted upon the bearing surfaces 54, 104 of the articular
components 32, 34 by the adjacent vertebral endplates. The keels
80, 120 thus serve to resist migration or displacement of the
prosthetic joint 30 relative to the adjacent vertebrae V.sub.U,
V.sub.L. Subsequent to the implantation of prosthetic joint 30, the
articular components 32, 34 are further secured to the upper and
lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L via bone growth through the
openings 86, 126 in keels 80, 120 and/or by bone on-growth onto the
surfaces of the articular components 32, 34 that are in direct
contact with vertebral bone. The bone through-growth and bone
on-growth provide further resistance to the migration or
displacement of the prosthetic joint 30 and prevent expulsion of
the prosthetic joint 30 from the intervertebral space S. It should
be understood that other means of engaging the prosthetic joint 30
to the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L are also
contemplated, such as, for example, by bone screws, staples, an
adhesive, or by other methods of engagement as would occur to one
of ordinary skill in the art.
[0063] In use, the articular components 32, 34 cooperate with one
another to provide a ball-and-socket type joint that permits
relative pivotal and rotational movement therebetween, which
correspondingly permits relative pivotal and rotational movement
between the upper and lower vertebrae V.sub.U, V.sub.L. As a
result, substantially normal biomechanical motion is restored to
the portion of the spinal column being treated. Although the
devices and methods of the present invention are particularly
applicable to the lumbar region of the spine, it should
nevertheless be understood that the present invention is also
applicable to other portions of the spine, including the cervical
or thoracic regions of the spine.
[0064] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been
shown and described and that all changes and modifications that
come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be
protected.
* * * * *