U.S. patent application number 11/204062 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-16 for insertion guide for a spinal implant.
This patent application is currently assigned to Stryker Spine. Invention is credited to Christopher McDonnell.
Application Number | 20060036261 11/204062 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35800976 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060036261 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McDonnell; Christopher |
February 16, 2006 |
Insertion guide for a spinal implant
Abstract
A spinal implant insertion guide is disclosed. The insertion
guide includes at least one channel suitable for receiving and
facilitating movement of a spinal implant into an intervertebral
space between two vertebrae and a portion suitable for insertion
into the intervertebral space. In embodiments for use with spinal
implant having multiple pieces, the pieces of the spinal implant
remain in cooperation throughout movement. The guide may further
include a plunger for facilitating the movement of the spinal
implant.
Inventors: |
McDonnell; Christopher;
(Sandy Hook, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LERNER, DAVID, LITTENBERG,;KRUMHOLZ & MENTLIK
600 SOUTH AVENUE WEST
WESTFIELD
NJ
07090
US
|
Assignee: |
Stryker Spine
Cestas
FR
|
Family ID: |
35800976 |
Appl. No.: |
11/204062 |
Filed: |
August 15, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60601461 |
Aug 13, 2004 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/99 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/4425 20130101;
A61F 2/4611 20130101; A61F 2220/0025 20130101; A61B 2017/0256
20130101; A61F 2002/30387 20130101; A61F 2002/30601 20130101; A61F
2002/30616 20130101; A61F 2002/4627 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/099 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/34 20060101
A61F002/34 |
Claims
1. A method of inserting a multi-piece spinal implant comprising:
providing an insertion guide defined by a channel having at least
two slots therein; inserting at least a portion of the insertion
guide into an intervertebral space between two vertebrae; placing
each piece of the multi-piece spinal implant into the channel such
that each implant piece engages at least one slot and the spinal
implant pieces cooperate with one another; and moving the spinal
implant pieces into the intervertebral space while maintaining the
spinal implant pieces in cooperation with one another and allowing
slight canting of the spinal implant pieces with respect to each
other.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein said insertion guide
further includes at least one extension for insertion into the
intervertebral space.
3. The method according to claim 2, wherein said inserting step
includes distracting the vertebrae.
4. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of
preparing each vertebrae for receiving the spinal implant.
5. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of
stabilizing the insertion guide with respect to the vertebrae.
6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the stabilization is
achieved by supporting the insertion guide outside of the
vertebrae.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the stabilization is
achieved by supporting the insertion guide within the
vertebrae.
8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the insertion guide
further includes a plunger.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein said moving step
includes manipulating the plunger to move the spinal implant
pieces.
10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the plunger is
inserted into the channel subsequent to the spinal implant
pieces.
11. The method according to claim 1, wherein said placing step is
performed prior to said inserting step.
12. A multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide comprising: a
channel including at least two slots lying in a transverse plane,
each of the at least two slots capable of engaging a different
portion of a multi-piece spinal implant; and at least one extension
suitable for insertion into an intervertebral space, wherein said
guide is configured so that the pieces of the multi-piece spinal
implant remain in cooperation throughout movement in said channel
and are capable of slight movement with respect to each other.
13. The multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12,
further comprising a plunger for facilitating movement of the
spinal implant pieces.
14. The multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12,
wherein said at least one extension is capable of causing
distraction of adjacent vertebrae.
15. The multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12,
wherein the cooperation of the pieces of the multi-piece spinal
implant includes the mating of at least two articulating
surfaces.
16. The multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12,
further comprising a multi-piece implant disposed within said
channel.
17. The spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12, wherein said
insertion guide is packaged with a spinal implant.
18. The spinal implant insertion guide of claim 17, wherein said
insertion guide and the spinal implant are sterilized.
19. The spinal implant insertion guide of claim 12, wherein said
insertion guide is constructed of a polymeric material.
20. A multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide comprising: a
channel including at least two slots lying in a transverse plane,
each of the at least two slots capable of engaging a different
portion of a multi-piece spinal implant; at least one extension
suitable for insertion into an intervertebral space; and, a plunger
for facilitating movement of the spinal implant pieces, wherein
said guide is configured so that the pieces of the multi-piece
spinal implant remain in cooperation throughout movement in said
channel and are capable of slight movement with respect to each
other.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] his application claims the benefit of the filing date of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/601,461 filed Aug. 13,
2004, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to apparatus and
methods for use in spinal disc arthroplasty, and more particularly,
to apparatus and methods for use in the insertion of disc
replacement implants into the intervertebral space between two
adjacent vertebrae.
[0003] Whether due to injury, wear, or genetic defect,
intervertebral disc degeneration is a problem suffered by many
people. Typically, this spinal problem has been addressed by
removing the disc material and replacing it with a spinal implant
which fuses two adjacent vertebrae. Recently, however, there has
been a significant amount of activity directed toward filling the
intervertebral space with spinal implants that permit relatively
natural movement of the two adjacent vertebrae with respect to each
other. In other words, it is now becoming relatively common to
utilize disc replacement implants which act like normal functioning
spinal discs.
[0004] During a standard spinal disc arthroplasty, the damaged
spinal disc material is removed and the two adjacent vertebrae are
distracted to a distance sufficient to receive the spinal implant.
Regardless of the type or size of implant utilized during spinal
disc arthroplasty, one of the most difficult steps involves
implanting the spinal implant in the intervertebral space. Often, a
surgeon will struggle with properly inserting the spinal implant
between two vertebrae. This is because inserting the implant
requires moving the implant into the intervertebral space, while
simultaneously distracting or spreading the two vertebrae.
Heretofore, instruments utilized in this process have been rather
cumbersome and difficult to manipulate, especially when implanting
the aforementioned disc replacement implants.
[0005] For the foregoing reasons, there exists a need for an
insertion guide for and a method of inserting a disc replacement
implant into an intervertebral space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a
spinal implant insertion guide includes at least one channel
adapted for receiving and facilitating movement of at least two
cooperating pieces of a spinal implant and a portion suitable for
insertion into the intervertebral space between two vertebrae. The
portion suitable for insertion into the intervertebral space is a
projecting portion having a sloped height and a rounded end. This
shape allows the portion to be easily inserted between the two
vertebrae. After the projecting portion has been inserted between
two vertebrae, the channel desirably extends into the
intervertebral space, thereby allowing the implant to be implanted
therein. The two pieces of the spinal implant may remain in
cooperation with each other throughout movement in the at least one
channel, however, slight movement of the pieces may be possible.
There may be several embodiments relating to this aspect of the
invention. For example, the channel may further include slots for
positioning the pieces of the spinal implant in cooperation with
one another. The insertion guide according to this embodiment of
the present invention may also include a plunger for facilitating
the movement of the spinal implant pieces. The portion suitable for
insertion into the intervertebral space between two vertebrae may
cause distraction of the two vertebrae upon insertion. In certain
embodiments, the insertion guide may be packaged with the spinal
implant preloaded therein. In other preferred embodiments, the
spinal implant may be loaded into the insertion guide immediately
before a surgical procedure. The insertion guide may be constructed
of a broad range of biocompatible materials such as stainless
steel. In certain preferred embodiments, the insertion guide is
made of a polymeric material, thereby making it relatively
inexpensive to construct and disposable.
[0007] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention
includes a spinal implant insertion guide having at least one
channel suitable for receiving and facilitating movement of a
spinal implant, the at least one channel extending into an
intervertebral space between two vertebrae. The insertion guide
desirably includes a portion suitable for insertion into the
intervertebral space, and a plunger for facilitating the movement
of the spinal implant into the intervertebral space. This
embodiment of the present invention may be configured to allow for
the insertion of a spinal implant of unitary construction.
[0008] Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
a disposable spinal implant insertion guide including at least one
channel suitable for receiving and facilitating movement of a
spinal implant, the at least one channel extending into an
intervertebral space between two vertebra, and a portion suitable
for insertion into the intervertebral space. The disposable
insertion guide according to this embodiment may be constructed
from a broad range of materials including stainless steel or other
metals. In one preferred embodiment, the insertion guide is made of
a polymeric material.
[0009] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention
provides a spinal insertion guide kit. The kit desirably includes
at least two insertion guides, the at least two insertion guides
being of different dimensions. Each guide includes at least one
channel suitable for receiving and facilitating movement of at
least two cooperating pieces of a spinal implant, the at least one
channel extending into an intervertebral space between two
vertebrae. Each guide also includes a portion suitable for
insertion into the intervertebral space. The pieces of the spinal
implant remain in cooperation throughout movement in the at least
one channel. In certain embodiments according to this aspect of the
present invention, the at least two insertion guides have different
sized projecting portions suitable for insertion into the
intervertebral space. In other embodiments according to this aspect
of the present invention, the at least two insertion guides have
different sized channels.
[0010] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a
method of inserting an at least two piece spinal implant includes
providing an insertion guide having at least one channel, inserting
at least a portion of the insertion guide into an intervertebral
space between two vertebrae, placing the at least two piece spinal
implant into the at least one channel such that the spinal implant
pieces cooperate with one another, and moving the spinal implant
pieces together into the intervertebral space. The implant pieces
preferably remain in cooperation throughout their insertion. The
method according to this aspect of the present invention may also
include distracting the vertebrae and/or preparing the vertebrae
for receiving the spinal implant. The method may also include
stabilizing the guide with respect to the vertebrae, with or
without an external support. Finally, this method may also include
providing and utilizing a plunger for facilitating the movement of
the implant.
[0011] Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention
includes a method of implanting a spinal implant of unitary
construction. The method according to this embodiment includes
providing an insertion guide having at least one channel, inserting
at least a portion of the insertion guide into an intervertebral
space between two vertebrae, placing the spinal implant into the at
least one channel, and moving the spinal implant into the
intervertebral space by manipulating a plunger in the at least one
channel.
[0012] Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes a
method of implanting a multi-piece spinal implant. The method
according to this embodiment includes providing an insertion guide
having at least one channel, inserting at least a portion of the
guide into an intervertebral space between two vertebrae, and
moving the pieces through the at least one channel into the
intervertebral space. During this movement of the pieces into the
intervertebral space, the pieces are capable of slight movement
with respect to each other.
[0013] A preferred method in accordance with the present invention
may be a method of inserting a multi-piece spinal implant. This
method may include the steps of providing an insertion guide
defined by a channel having at least two slots therein, inserting
at least a portion of the insertion guide into an intervertebral
space between two vertebrae, placing each piece of the multi-piece
spinal implant into the channel such that each implant piece
engages at least one slot and the spinal implant pieces cooperate
with on another, and moving the spinal implant pieces into the
intervertebral space while maintaining the spinal implant pieces in
cooperation with one another and allowing slight movement of the
spinal implant pieces with respect to each other.
[0014] A preferred multi-piece spinal implant insertion guide in
accordance with the present invention may include a channel
including at least two slots, each of the at least two slots
capable of engaging a different portion of a multi-piece spinal
implant, and at least one extension suitable for insertion into an
intervertebral space. Preferably, the guide should be configured so
that the pieces of the multi-piece spinal implant remain in
cooperation throughout movement in the channel and are capable of
slight movement with respect to each other.
[0015] Yet another preferred multi-piece spinal implant insertion
guide in accordance with the present invention may include a
channel including at least two slots, each of the at least two
slots capable of engaging a different portion of a multi-piece
spinal implant, at least one extension suitable for insertion into
an intervertebral space, and a plunger for facilitating movement of
the spinal implant pieces. Preferably, the guide should be
configured so that the pieces of the multi-piece spinal implant
remain in cooperation throughout movement in the channel and are
capable of slight movement with respect to each other.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The present invention will be better understood on reading
the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments
thereof, and on examining the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a spinal implant
insertion guide according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side cross sectional view of the spinal implant
insertion guide shown in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the spinal implant insertion
guide shown in FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a spinal implant
insertion guide according to another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a side cross sectional view of the spinal implant
insertion guide shown in FIG. 4.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a front plan view of a spinal implant insertion
guide according to another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] In describing the preferred embodiments of the subject
matter illustrated and to be described with respect to the
drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of
clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to
the specific terminology and includes all technical equivalence
which operates in a similar manner to accomplish a similar
purpose.
[0024] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals
represent like elements, there is shown in FIGS. 1-3, in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention, an insertion guide for
a spinal implant designated generally by reference numeral 10. In
the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, insertion guide 10
is designed to be used in aiding in the insertion of a spinal
implant 7. As best shown in FIG. 1, insertion guide 10 is of
unitary construction having a top side 12, a bottom side 14, a
proximal end 16, and a distal end 18. Guide 10 also includes a
channel 20 adapted to receive a spinal implant 7, and
intervertebral extensions 22 and 24 that project from the distal
end 18 of insertion guide 10. Guide 10 is adapted for being
inserted between two adjacent vertebrae 3 and 5 during a spinal
surgical procedure. The intervertebral extensions 22 and 24 are
preferably inserted into the intervertebral space 2 for distracting
the adjacent vertebrae 3 and 5, as shown in FIG. 2. However, it is
noted that extensions 22 and 24 can be sized so that their
insertion does not distract vertebrae 3 and 5.
[0025] Channel 20 is an opening within guide 10 configured and
dimensioned to receive and allow sliding movement of spinal implant
7 from the proximal end 16 toward the distal end 18. As best shown
in FIG. 2, the sliding movement allows insertion of implant 7 into
intervertebral space 2 between vertebrae 3 and 5. Channel 20 is
defined by first lateral wall 26, second lateral wall 28, and
distal end wall 30. Distal end wall 30 preferably connects first
wall 26 to second wall 28. In the particular preferred embodiment
shown in FIG. 1, the guide 10 includes a channel 20 capable of
receiving a multi-piece spinal implant 7 having two pieces 8a and
8b. In order to facilitate this reception, channel 20 further
includes four slots, 32a and 32b which are cut into first wall 26
and 32c and 32d which are cut into second wall 28. The slots are
preferably cut into the inner faces of the first and second lateral
walls 26 and 28. These slots engage and allow for two portions of
each piece 8a and 8b to ride through channel 20, while remaining in
cooperation with one another. In certain embodiments, a second
distal end wall may be located directly below posterior wall 30 to
provide even more stability between the first and second lateral
walls. Preferably, implant 7 is sized so that its height is less
than the distance between posterior wall 30 and any second
posterior end wall located directly below wall 30 (not shown).
Thus, a clearance between the implant and these walls exists, and
implant 7 can be moved through channel 20.
[0026] Intervertebral extensions 22 and 24 are preferably narrower
in height than the height of the first lateral wall 26 and second
lateral wall 28, respectively. Extensions 22 and 24 extend beyond
the portion of the first and second walls at which distal end wall
30 intersects them. As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, extensions 22
and 24 preferably increase in height in a direction from the distal
end 18 toward the proximal end 16. In the embodiment shown, the
distal ends of extensions 22, 24 are rounded in order to facilitate
easy insertion into the space between the two vertebrae, and are
spread to cause distraction of vertebrae 3 and 5 upon insertion.
However, the distal ends of extensions 22 and 24 may be of any
shape. As mentioned above, in certain preferred embodiments,
extensions 22, 24 may sized to distract or properly fit between the
two vertebrae 3 and 5. A result of the latter construction is that
the two vertebrae are not distracted upon insertion of the
extensions 22, 24 therebetween. This may be useful in a surgery in
which a separate distraction tool is utilized.
[0027] Preferably, as shown in FIG. 3, extensions 22, 24 each have
a width which creates a space between the two extensions large
enough to allow passage of implant 7 therethrough. In other words,
in the preferred embodiment, implant pieces 8a and 8b are
preferably allowed to ride along slots 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d and
past extensions 22, 24 during insertion between vertebrae 3 and 5.
Preferably, once implant pieces 8a and 8b pass through the slots,
the forced cooperation of the pieces is retained by way of
vertebrae 3 and 5. Thus, extensions 22, 24 are not required to
contact any portion of implant 7. However, it is contemplated to
provide slots, like slots 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d, which continue
along the length of extensions 22, 24. Therefore, these slots would
guide and retain implant pieces 8a and 8b in cooperation with one
another throughout the entire passage through guide 10.
[0028] As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, guide 10 may be fitted with
a plunger or driver 40. Plunger 40 includes a channel sized end 42,
an elongate shaft 44, and a handle 46. Channel sized end 42, as
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, is sized to fit snuggly within channel 20,
while also being capable of contacting implant 7. Handle 46 is an
easily operable handle, which allows a surgeon to facilitate
movement of plunger 40. Handle 46 preferably has a wide variety of
designs, including ergonomic designs and thumb operable designs.
Elongate shaft 44 creates a connection between end 42 and handle
46. In certain preferred embodiments the elongate shaft 44 is
dimensioned in length to allow for the full implantation of implant
7 within intervertebral space 2, without the introduction of handle
46 into channel 20.
[0029] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for
inserting a spinal implant into an intervertebral space. The method
according to this aspect of the invention includes the step of
providing an insertion guide as discussed above. It is noted that
the guide can be in accordance with any of the various embodiments
disclosed herein, as the particular design may not cause the
standard method step to significantly deviate. For the sake of ease
in explaining the method, insertion guide 10 will be utilized
below.
[0030] Initially, intervertebral extensions 22 and 24 of guide 10
are inserted between vertebrae 3 and 5. Depending upon the
dimensions of extensions 22 and 24, the insertion of such may cause
distraction of vertebrae 3 and 5 from one another. A surgeon may
simply utilize his own bare hands to push extensions 22 and 24 into
intervertebral space 2, or other tools such as hammers and mallets
may be utilized, as for example in situations where vertebrae 3 and
5 are distracted during insertion of the guide. This distraction is
accomplished by utilizing the rounded ends and/or sloped nature of
the extensions to slowly insert guide 10 between vertebrae 3 and 5
to simultaneously distract the same. However, as mentioned above,
extensions 22 and 24 need not be sized for such distraction and can
be dimensioned to allow for a snug fit between vertebrae 3 and 5
without causing significant distraction.
[0031] In certain embodiments, vertebrae 3 and 5 may be prepared to
receive an implant prior to the insertion of extensions 22 and 24.
Depending upon the type of implant, this may include the removal of
the deteriorated or damaged disc material, and/or the shaping of
the bone to better receive the implant. For example, when utilizing
implants that include keels, spikes or other protrusions, it may be
necessary to cut channels or otherwise remove bone from vertebrae 3
and 5 to allow for proper implantation of the implant. It is also
contemplated that once guide 10 is inserted between vertebrae 3 and
5, it may be supported by means other than the snug connection
between the vertebrae. For example, an external support may be
utilized to support guide 10 outside of the vertebrae. However, it
is noted that often times, the fit of extensions 22, 24 between
vertebrae 3 and 5 and the pressure exerted thereby is enough hold
guide 10 in place.
[0032] Subsequent to guide 10 being inserted into intervertebral
space 2, spinal implant 7 is preferably then placed into channel
20. It is also possible to pre-seat spinal implant 7 within channel
20, prior to guide 10 being inserted between the vertebrae. The
latter design may be important in providing prepackaged, easily
autoclaved or otherwise sterilized individual units. Regardless of
when implant 7 is placed into channel 20, the inserted position of
guide 10 allows for the implant to be moved into intervertebral
space 2. For embodiments in which a spinal implant having two or
more pieces is being implanted, it should be noted that the
multiple pieces are placed into the insertion guide so that they
cooperate with one another (e.g.--their articulating surfaces
mate), and remain in this cooperation throughout their movement
into the intervertebral space. It should also be noted that while
pieces 8a and 8b of implant 7 are in cooperation with each other,
these pieces may be capable of slightly moving with respect to each
other. This slight motion may aid in the insertion of implant 7.
For example, the slight motion may allow a surgeon to better
manipulate pieces 8a and 8b to overcome hindrances caused by the
adjacent vertebrae.
[0033] In a preferred embodiment, guide 10 is configured and
dimensioned so as to allow for the above noted slight movement of
pieces 8a and 8b of implant 7 with respect to each other. More
particularly, channel 20 and slots 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d may be
configured and dimensioned to allow for enough clearance so that
slight canting of implant pieces 8a and 8b, or slight translation
of the two implant pieces may be accomplished. In certain
embodiments, the slots may simply be larger than the portions of
pieces 8a and 8b being inserted therein. This would create a
clearance that may allow for the two implant pieces to be moved
with respect to one another. It is noted that any movement of
pieces 8a and 8b with respect to each other should be such that the
articulation surfaces of the two pieces remain in cooperation with
each other. For example, the movement may be slight movement that
is merely a portion of that which is allowed by the aforementioned
articulation surfaces of pieces 8a and 8b. As mentioned above,
allowing such slight movement may aid a surgeon during the
implantation of implant 7. However, in certain cases, such movement
may not be necessary.
[0034] The movement of spinal implant 7 into intervertebral space 2
is accomplished by applying a force to push the implant through
channel 20 of the guide 10 and into the space. This force may be
provided by utilizing a plunger 40, as described above. In these
embodiments, plunger 40 is inserted into channel 20 subsequent to
the placing of implant 7 therein. Once again, in the prepackaged
units mentioned above, plunger 40 may be packaged in an inserted
position. Operation of handle 46 allows a surgeon to more easily
push implant 7 into intervertebral space 2. In certain preferred
embodiments, the sizing of plunger 40 should be such that the
channel sized end 42 can fully situate implant 7 into
intervertebral space 2, without handle 46 entering channel 20. Once
implant 7 is moved into intervertebral space 2, guide 10 may be
removed from its position between vertebrae 3 and 5. Thereafter,
implant 7 may be seated in intervertebral space 2 in accordance
with standard practices relating to the particular implant. For
example, the individual pieces 8a and 8b of spinal implant 7 may
both be cemented to adjacent vertebrae. However, it is also
contemplated that various implants may have many different manners
of being seated within an intervertebral space. For example,
certain spinal implants may include flanges for facilitating
connection with a bone screw or keels/spikes for implantation into
the vertebral endplates. It is noted that in certain embodiments,
end 42 of plunger 40 may be operatively connected to implant 7, or
in other embodiments, may merely be capable of abutting the
implant.
[0035] In certain embodiments, extensions 22 and 24 are sized so
that insertion between vertebrae 3 and 5 causes distraction.
However, this is not necessary. In embodiments in which the
extensions are sized to facilitate distraction, the sloped
configuration of extensions 22 and 24 allows for the increase of
distraction of the vertebrae with respect to the further insertion
of the extensions between the vertebrae. Upon implantation of
implant 7, guide 10 may be removed. Similarly, guide 10 may be
removed prior to the fixation of implant 7 to vertebrae 3 and 5,
respectively. In embodiments in which extensions 22 and 24 are
sized and configured to cause distraction of vertebrae 3 and 5,
removal of guide 10 may cause the vertebrae to return to their
non-distracted position, thereby clamping and/or seating implant 7
in place. For implants that utilize keels or spikes, this vertebrae
movement may cause the projections to become seated in their
respective vertebrae.
[0036] FIGS. 4 and 5 depict an insertion guide 110 used for
inserting single piece implant 107 in accordance with other
preferred embodiments of the present invention. As shown in these
figures, guide 110 is similar in design to guide 10, the only
deviation in design residing in the inclusion of only two slots
132a and 132b, as opposed to the four slots of guide 10. As in the
design of guide 10, slots 132a and 132b are cut into first lateral
wall 126 and second lateral wall 128. Also as in guide 10, guide
110 may be utilized in conjunction with a properly sized and
dimensioned plunger 40, in a manner like that disclosed above.
[0037] It is also contemplated that while the designs of both guide
10 and guide 110 include at least two slots for receiving and
holding the spinal implant, designs are envisioned that do not
require slots. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a guide 210
includes an enclosed channel 220 for receiving a spinal implant.
Walls 226, 228, 230, and 232 define channel 220, and rid guide 210
of the need for any slots. Rather than the substantially square
cross section of guide 220, other guides may include cross sections
that better suit the cross section of particular spinal implants.
For example, guides having a rectangular cross section may be
employed. Similarly, the exterior surface of certain embodiments of
the present invention may be shaped to allow for the easier
insertion of the guide through an incision. For example, the
exterior surface of a guide may be rounded. Once again, guide 210,
like guides 10 and 100, can be used in conjunction with a properly
sized and dimensioned plunger 40, in a manner like that disclosed
above. Finally, it is noted that any of the above guides and/or
each of their respective elements and components may be constructed
of any type of material suitable for insertion into the human body.
For example, it is contemplated to construct any of the guides
and/or plungers of metals such as stainless steel. In addition,
these devices may be constructed of polymers.
[0038] Although the invention herein has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and
applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *