U.S. patent application number 16/936235 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-05 for intervertebral implant device with independent distal-proximal expansion.
The applicant listed for this patent is Spinal Elements, Inc.. Invention is credited to Brion Daffinson, Austin Howell, Chase Thornburg.
Application Number | 20200345511 16/936235 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004975050 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-05 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200345511 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Daffinson; Brion ; et
al. |
November 5, 2020 |
INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT DEVICE WITH INDEPENDENT DISTAL-PROXIMAL
EXPANSION
Abstract
An expandable interbody fusion implant device has a frame, two
ramp assemblies and two overlying base plates driven by two
independent drive shafts. The two ramp assemblies include a distal
ramp assembly and a proximal ramp assembly. Each ramp assembly has
a translating ramp, a first pivoting hinged ramp and a second
pivoting hinged ramp. The two overlying base plates include a first
base plate overlying a second base plate. Each base plate is hinged
to the distal ramp assembly and the proximal ramp assembly at an
end of one of said pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly. The
two independently driven drive shafts include a first drive shaft
for translating the distal ramp assembly and a second drive shaft
for translating the proximal ramp assembly to independently expand
the implant proximally or distally or both.
Inventors: |
Daffinson; Brion; (Marietta,
GA) ; Howell; Austin; (Decatur, GA) ;
Thornburg; Chase; (Cumming, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Spinal Elements, Inc. |
Carlsbad |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004975050 |
Appl. No.: |
16/936235 |
Filed: |
July 22, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15645575 |
Jul 10, 2017 |
10758366 |
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16936235 |
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15363392 |
Nov 29, 2016 |
9750618 |
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15645575 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2002/30556
20130101; A61F 2002/30476 20130101; A61F 2002/30405 20130101; A61F
2002/30387 20130101; A61F 2002/30538 20130101; A61F 2002/30507
20130101; A61F 2/447 20130101; A61F 2220/0008 20130101; A61F
2002/30593 20130101; A61F 2002/30266 20130101; A61F 2002/30578
20130101; A61F 2002/30579 20130101; A61F 2002/30515 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/44 20060101
A61F002/44 |
Claims
1. An expandable interbody fusion implant device comprises: a frame
having a distal end and a proximal end; two ramp assemblies, one
being a distal ramp assembly and the other a proximal ramp
assembly, each ramp assembly has a translating ramp, a first
pivoting hinged ramp and a second pivoting hinged ramp; two
overlying base plates disposed between the distal end and the
proximal end of the frame, a first base plate overlying a second
base plate, each base plate being hinged to the distal ramp
assembly and the proximal ramp assembly at an end of one of said
pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly; two independently
driven drive shafts, a first drive shaft for translating the distal
ramp assembly and a second drive shaft for translating the proximal
ramp assembly, each drive shaft being affixed to the frame at the
distal and proximal ends; and wherein rotation of the first drive
shaft can independently drive the distal ramp assembly to
selectively expand or contract a distance between the two base
plates distally, rotation of the second drive shaft can
independently drive the proximal ramp assembly to selectively
expand or contract a distance between the two base plates
proximally and sequential or simultaneous rotation of both first
and second drive shafts independently drives the distal and
proximal ramps to selectively expand or contract a distance between
both first and second base plates to a selected inclination of the
first and second base plates relative to the frame over a range of
angles.
2. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein each translating ramp has an exterior lift surface
contoured to guide and support the pivoting hinged ramps during
expansion or contraction of the base plates.
3. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein during distal expansion of the base plates the distal ramp
assembly moves directionally toward the distal end of the frame on
rotation of the first drive shaft.
4. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein during proximal expansion of the base plates the proximal
ramp assembly moves directionally toward the proximal end of the
frame on rotation of the second drive shaft.
5. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein each translating ramp has a stop wall configured to stop
the pivoting hinged ramps at a full expansion height on both the
distal and proximal ramp assemblies.
6. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 2
wherein each pivoting hinged ramp has a contoured support surface
configured to slide on the exterior lift surface of the translating
ramp.
7. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 6
wherein each pivoting hinged ramp contoured support surface is
complimentary to the exterior lift surface, the complimentary
surface of each being inclined with a sloped flat feature or a
contoured curved feature.
8. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 7
wherein the contoured lift surface has a convex curvature; and the
contoured support surface has a concave curvature of similar
profile to fit onto a portion of the lift surface.
9. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 8
wherein the lift surface curvature of each translating ramp has a
radius of curvature of decreasing inclination toward a center of
the frame of the device and of increasing inclination toward ends
of the frame configured to initially rapidly expand or contract
near a collapsed or retracted position and a slower expansion or
contraction near a fully expanded position configured to allow a
larger range of height adjustment with a constant bearing surface
area for increased stability of all expanded heights.
10. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein each translating ramp has a pair of opposing sides, each
side has a pair of guide channels or grooves, one for receiving and
guiding one of the pivoting hinged ramps, each pivoting hinged ramp
has a lateral side keyed into the guide channel or groove wherein
each guide channel or groove has an end to limit the expansion of
the pivoting hinged ramp.
11. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein the distal end of the frame has a tapered end configured to
facilitate insertion between vertebral bodies.
12. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 1
wherein the proximal end of the frame has a first opening and a
second opening for receiving the first and second drive shafts,
respectively, and further has lateral sides with slotted channels
to receive a pin fixed to the proximal end of each of the first and
second base plates, the pins configured to allow the base plates to
slide relative to the proximal end of the frame during expansion or
contraction.
13. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 12
wherein the first and second base plates each have at the proximal
end an end plate with a fastener opening for securing the implant
to a vertebral body, each end plate being integral to and
selectively movable with the base plate during expansion or
contraction.
14. The expandable interbody fusion implant device of claim 13
wherein each end plate further has a locking tab attached to the
end plate, the locking tab being rotatable to cover a portion of
the fastener from loosening after being affixed to a vertebral
body.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/645,575, filed Jul. 10, 2017, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/363,392, now
U.S. Pat. No. 9,750,618, filed Nov. 29, 2016, the disclosure of
each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to an expandable interbody
fusion implant device for implantation between vertebral
bodies.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Spinal stabilization can be achieved by providing an
interbody implant. Some of these implants are bone, PEEK, solid
titanium or similar non-bone implant material and some are hollow
implants that provide for inclusion of a bone graft or other
suitable material to facilitate bony union of the vertebrae.
[0004] Interbody implants can be inserted into the disc space
through an anterior, posterior or lateral approach. In some
systems, the implants are inserted into a bore formed between
adjacent vertebral bodies in the cortical endplates and can extend
into the cancellous bone deep to the cortical endplates. Implant
size is typically selected such that the implants force the
vertebrae apart to cause tensing of the vertebral annulus and other
soft tissue structures surrounding the joint space. Tensing the
soft tissues surrounding the joint space results in the vertebrae
exerting compressive forces on the implant to retain the implant in
place.
[0005] It has been found desirable to keep the surgical opening as
small as practical while still having sufficient room to insert the
implant device and the end of an elongated tool or insertion
instrument.
[0006] Advantageously, if the implant size could be reduced further
that would allow the surgical opening to be reduced; however, once
implanted the device needs to be expandable to provide sufficient
spacing of the vertebrae.
[0007] A whole class of expandable interbody implant devices have
been developed for this purpose. Some prior art devices use
hydraulic expansion or inflatable balloons. Some devices are
stackable elements piled on themselves to raise their height. Some
use rotatable screw jack designs. Some are wedges that have a fixed
hinged end and an opposite expandable end. All of the rotatable
expandable devices using screw threads require the device to be
round cylinders or posts.
[0008] One of the problems of such devices is the amount of post
insertion manipulation required to reach a fully expanded properly
space height is tedious and time consuming. Secondly, additional
set screws or locking elements are often required to keep the
device at its proper size. Thirdly, the devices of a circular shape
are not the best fit for the adjacent vertebrae being spaced.
Fourth, most of the devices have the internal space occupied with
mechanisms limiting the amount of bone growth material available
for packing the implants.
[0009] The wedge type implants generally contact the bone on an
angle and expandable wedges when expanded simply expand on an angle
not parallel to the vertebrae surface. This places localized high
loading between the vertebrae because the wedge surfaces are not
parallel to the vertebrae.
[0010] In some cases of vertebral misalignment, a controlled
angulation of the implant device can be very beneficial to correct
a pre-existing condition. Accordingly, in those cases having a
wedge shape at a fixed angulation would mean the manufacturer would
be required to make many devices with pre-set angles to select
from. This simply is cost prohibitive.
[0011] Accordingly, the present invention provides a single device
that can be expanded horizontally and parallel or, if preferred,
can be expanded distally or proximally or both independently to
allow the surgeon to choose the ideal orientation he wants to use
to correct the spinal alignment.
[0012] These and other limitations in the prior art have been
corrected and solved by the present invention as disclosed
herein.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] An expandable interbody fusion implant device has a frame,
two ramp assemblies and two overlying base plates driven by two
independent drive shafts. The frame has a distal end and a proximal
end. The two ramp assemblies include a distal ramp assembly and a
proximal ramp assembly. Each ramp assembly has a translating ramp,
a first pivoting hinged ramp and a second pivoting hinged ramp. The
two overlying base plates disposed between the distal end and the
proximal end of the frame include a first base plate overlying a
second base plate. Each base plate is hinged to the distal ramp
assembly and the proximal ramp assembly at an end of one of said
pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly. The two independently
driven drive shafts include a first drive shaft for translating the
distal ramp assembly and a second drive shaft for translating the
proximal ramp assembly. Each drive shaft is affixed to the frame at
the distal and proximal ends.
[0014] Rotation of the first drive shaft can independently drive
the distal ramp assembly to selectively expand or contract a
distance between the two base plates distally and rotation of the
second drive shaft can independently drive the proximal ramp
assembly to selectively expand or contract a distance between the
two base plates proximally. Sequential or simultaneous rotation of
both first and second drive shafts independently drives the distal
and proximal ramps to selectively expand or contract a distance
between both first and second base plates to a selected inclination
of the first and second base plates relative to the frame over a
range of angles.
[0015] Each translating ramp has an exterior lift surface contoured
to guide and support the pivoting hinged ramps during expansion or
contraction of the base plates. During distal expansion of the base
plates the translating ramp of the distal ramp assembly moves
directionally toward the distal end of the frame on rotation of the
first drive shaft. During proximal expansion of the base plates the
translating ramp of the proximal ramp assembly moves directionally
toward the proximal end of the frame on rotation of the second
drive shaft. Each translating ramp has a stop wall configured to
stop the pivoting hinged ramps at a full expansion height on both
the distal and proximal ramp assemblies. Each pivoting hinged ramp
has a contoured support surface configured to slide on the exterior
lift surface of the translating ramp, wherein each pivoting hinged
ramp contoured support surface is complimentary to the exterior
lift surface. The contoured lift surface has a convex curvature;
and the contoured support surface has a concave curvature of
similar profile to fit onto a portion of the lift surface. The lift
surface curvature of each translating ramp has a radius of
curvature of decreasing inclination toward a center of the frame of
the device and of increasing inclination toward ends of the frame
configured to initially rapidly expand or contract near a collapsed
or retracted position and a slower expansion or contraction near a
fully expanded position. Each translating ramp has a pair of
opposing sides, each side has a pair of guide channels or grooves,
one for receiving and guiding one of the pivoting hinged ramps,
each pivoting hinged ramp has a lateral side keyed into the guide
channel or groove wherein each guide channel or groove extends
toward an end forming the stop wall to limit the expansion of the
pivoting hinged ramp.
[0016] Preferably, the distal end of the frame has a tapered end
configured to facilitate insertion between vertebral bodies. The
proximal end of the frame has a first opening and a second opening
for receiving the first and second drive shafts, respectively, and
further has lateral sides with slotted channels to receive a pin
fixed to the proximal end of each of the first and second base
plates. The pins configured to allow the base plates to slide
relative to the proximal end of the frame during expansion or
contraction.
[0017] Preferably, the base plates have an outer surface having a
convex curvature with a crown or peak at the longitudinal midline
of the implant that decreases as the curvature extends toward the
distal or proximal end. The convex curvature is configured to mimic
the end plate of the adjacent vertebra it supports and beneficially
provides a large bearing surface regardless of the angulation of
the base plates.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second base plates
as an optional feature each have, at the proximal end, an end plate
with a fastener opening for securing the implant to a vertebral
body. Each end plate is integral to and selectively movable with
the base plate during expansion or contraction. Each end plate
further has a locking tab attached to the end plate, the locking
tab being rotatable to cover a portion of the fastener to prevent
loosening after being affixed to a vertebral body. These end
plates, when incorporated into the base plates, make the implant
device of the present invention a unique standalone device.
[0019] In another alternative embodiment, the implant may only have
one base plate, the first or the second base plate and the frame.
In that embodiment, an expandable interbody fusion implant device
would have a frame having a distal end and a proximal end, two ramp
assemblies, one being a distal ramp assembly and the other a
proximal ramp assembly, each ramp assembly has a translating ramp
and at least one pivoting hinged ramp, at least one base plate
disposed between the distal end and the proximal end of the frame,
the at least one base plate overlying the frame, the at least one
base plate being hinged to the distal ramp assembly and the
proximal ramp assembly at an end of one of said at least one
pivoting hinged ramp of each ramp assembly, two independently
driven drive shafts, a first drive shaft for translating the distal
ramp assembly and a second drive shaft for translating the proximal
ramp assembly, each drive shaft being affixed to the frame at the
distal and proximal ends, and wherein rotation of the first drive
shaft can independently drive the distal ramp assembly to
selectively expand or contract a distance between the at least one
base plate distally, rotation of the second drive shaft can
independently drive the proximal ramp assembly to selectively
expand or contract a distance between the at least one base plate
and the frame proximally and sequential or simultaneous rotation of
both first and second drive shafts independently drives the distal
and proximal ramps to selectively expand or contract a distance
between the at least one base plate and the frame to a selected
inclination of the at least one base plate relative to the frame
over a range of angles. In this alternative, all the other features
are the same as the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The invention will be described by way of example and with
reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the expandable implant
device of a preferred embodiment made in accordance with the
present invention shown in a contracted non-expanded position.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a side view of the expandable implant device taken
from FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 shown
with the distal end expanded and the proximal end contracted.
[0024] FIG. 3B is a side view taken from FIG. 3A.
[0025] FIG. 3C is the side view taken from FIG. 3B with threaded
fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and second
base plate.
[0026] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 shown
with the proximal end expanded and the distal end contracted.
[0027] FIG. 4B is a side view taken from FIG. 4A.
[0028] FIG. 4C is a side view taken from FIG. 4B with threaded
fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and second
base plate.
[0029] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 shown
with the distal and the proximal end fully expanded.
[0030] FIG. 5B is a side view of the device taken from FIG. 5A.
[0031] FIG. 5C is a side view taken from FIG. 5B with threaded
fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and second
base plate.
[0032] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 5A with
threaded fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and
second base plate.
[0033] FIG. 6A is an exploded side view of the frame and ramp
assemblies of the present invention as a first assembly step.
[0034] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the assembled frame and
ramp assemblies of FIG. 6A with the drive shafts and pins shown
exploded as a second assembly step.
[0035] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the assembled frame, ramp
assemblies, drive shafts and pins of FIG. 6B with the base plates
and locking tabs shown exploded as a third assembly step.
[0036] FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the assembled frame, ramp
assemblies, drive shafts, pins, base plates and locking tabs of
FIG. 6C with the final pins shown exploded as a fourth assembly
step.
[0037] FIG. 7A is a front or proximal view of the device of the
present invention shown in a contracted position.
[0038] FIG. 7B is a front or proximal view of the device of the
present invention shown in an expanded position.
[0039] FIG. 7C is a front or proximal view of the device of the
present invention shown in an expanded position with threaded
fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and second
base plate and the locking tabs in an unlocked position.
[0040] FIG. 7D is a front or proximal view of the device of the
present invention shown in an expanded position with threaded
fasteners installed in the proximal end of each first and second
base plate and the locking tabs in a locked position.
[0041] FIG. 8A is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the distal drive shaft collapsed.
[0042] FIG. 8B is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the proximal drive shaft collapsed.
[0043] FIG. 8C is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the distal drive shaft distally
expanded.
[0044] FIG. 8D is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the proximal drive shaft distally
expanded.
[0045] FIG. 8E is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the distal drive shaft proximally
expanded.
[0046] FIG. 8F is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the proximal drive shaft proximally
expanded.
[0047] FIG. 8G is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the distal drive shaft fully expanded.
[0048] FIG. 8H is a side cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention with the proximal drive shaft fully expanded.
[0049] FIG. 9A is a top cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention in a contracted position.
[0050] FIG. 9B is a top cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention in a distally expanded position.
[0051] FIG. 9C is a top cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention in a proximally expanded position.
[0052] FIG. 9D is a top cross-sectional view of the device of the
present invention in a fully expanded position.
[0053] FIG. 10A is a top view of the device of the present
invention in a contracted position.
[0054] FIG. 10B is a top view of the device of the present
invention in a fully expanded position.
[0055] FIG. 10C is a top view of the device of the present
invention in a fully expanded position with threaded fasteners
installed in the proximal end of each first and second base
plate.
[0056] FIG. 11A is a right cross-sectional view of the device of
the present invention in a contracted position at the ramp dovetail
feature.
[0057] FIG. 11B is a right cross-sectional view of the device of
the present invention in an expanded position at the ramp dovetail
feature.
[0058] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the implant device of the
present invention shown implanted between two vertebral bodies of a
spine.
[0059] FIG. 13 is a front view taken from FIG. 12 of the implant
device of the present invention shown implanted between two
vertebral bodies of a spine.
[0060] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the implant device of the
present invention shown implanted between two vertebral bodies of a
spine.
[0061] FIG. 15 is a side view taken from FIG. 12 of the implant
device of the present invention shown implanted between two
vertebral bodies of a spine.
[0062] FIG. 16 is a side view of a first alternative embodiment
showing the device made with one base plate and a frame.
[0063] FIG. 17A is an end view of a second alternative of the
present invention having a laterally inclined outer surface of the
base plates configured to mimic a lordotic curvature at a first
lordotic angle less than or equal to 10 degrees.
[0064] FIG. 17B is a right section view of the second embodiment of
FIG. 17A.
[0065] FIG. 18A is an end view of a second alternative of the
present invention having a laterally inclined outer surface of the
base plates configured to mimic a lordotic curvature at a first
lordotic angle greater than 10 degrees.
[0066] FIG. 18B is a right section view of the second embodiment of
FIG. 18A.
[0067] FIG. 19A is an end view of a second alternative of the
present invention having a laterally inclined outer surface of the
base plates configured to mimic a lordotic curvature at a first
lordotic angle greater than 15 degrees.
[0068] FIG. 19B is a right section view of the second embodiment of
FIG. 19A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0069] The intervertebral implant device with independent
distal-proximal expansion of the present invention, hereinafter
described as an expandable interbody fusion implant device 10, has
a frame 60, two ramp assemblies, 30, 32 and two overlying base
plates 20, 40 driven by two independent drive shafts 50, 52; as
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0070] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the device 10 shows the
frame 60 having a distal end 62 and a proximal end 61. The two ramp
assemblies 30, 32 include a distal translating ramp 34 and a
proximal translating ramp 35 respectively, and further have a first
pivoting hinged ramp 31 and a second pivoting hinged ramp 33. The
two overlying base plates 20, 40 are disposed between the distal
end 62 and the proximal end 61. The first base plate 20 overlies
the second base plate 40. Each base plate 20, 40 is hinged to a
distal ramp assembly 30 and the proximal ramp assembly 32 at an end
of one of the said pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly. The
two independently driven drive shafts 50, 52 include a first drive
shaft 50 for translating the distal ramp assembly 30 and a second
drive shaft 52 for translating the proximal ramp assembly 32. Each
drive shaft 50, 52 is affixed to the frame 60 at the distal and
proximal end.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the implant device 10 is shown in
a fully contracted position, this position is most suitable for
insertion as it provides the lowest height between the opposing
base plates 20, 40. As shown, the distal end 62 has a chamfered
leading end surface further reducing the cross section as it enters
between the intervertebral spaces providing a nice leading nose end
for insertion. At the proximal end of the implant device 10, each
base plate 20, 40 respectively have end plates 21 and 41. These end
plates each are provided with a through hole 25 for receiving a
threaded fastener 100. Threaded fastener 100 is shown in FIG.
3C.
[0072] With reference to FIGS. 3A-3C, the implant device 10 is
shown where the first drive shaft 50 has been rotated such that the
distal ramp assembly 30 is moved towards the distal end of the
frame 62. When this occurs the translating ramp 34 of the distal
ramp assembly 30 moves the pivoting hinged ramp 31 and 33 along an
outer surface of the translating ramp 34 following the contour of
the outer surface. When this drive shaft 50 is rotationally driven
to rotate the distal end the base plates 20, 40 both are increased
in height from the contracted state to an expanded state. This
increase in height can occur in small increments anywhere dependent
on the amount of the rotation of the drive shaft 50 and this
rotation achieves a maximum level when the pivoting hinged ramp
hits a stop wall 36 on the translating ramp 34. In the fully
expanded condition, the distal end is shown elevated relative to
the proximal end. This can best be seen in FIG. 3B from a side
view. Threaded fasteners 100 can be inserted through the through
holes 25 in both the first end plate 21 and the second end plate 41
of the first base plate 20 and the second base plate 40
respectively at any stage/position.
[0073] With reference to FIG. 4A-4C, the implant device 10
alternatively, can have the second drive shaft 52 rotated in such a
fashion that the proximal end 61 of the implant 10 will be elevated
from a contracted position shown in FIG. 1 to the expanded position
as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C. When this occurs, the translating ramp 35
of the proximal ramp assembly 32 is drawn toward the proximal end
61 of the frame 60 and as this occurs the pivoting hinged ramps 31,
33 ride on the outer surface of the ramp 35 such that the first
base plate 20 and the second base plate 40 are moved increasing in
height at the proximal end 61 as illustrated. This occurs
independent of the distal end of the implant 10 as the distal end
has not moved and is in the contracted position as illustrated in
this embodiment. This feature allows the surgeon the option to move
the implant 10 near the distal end 62 into an expanded condition
or, alternatively, near the proximal end 61 into an expanded
position or can move each end of the implant 10 by whatever
increment or amount the surgeon prefers to set a desired angular
inclination between the opposing base plate 20, 40 surfaces.
[0074] With reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, the implant device 10 is
shown where both the first drive shaft 50 and the second drive
shaft 52 have been rotated into a fully expanded position. When
this occurs, the first base plate 20 moves outwardly both distally
and proximally as does the second base plate 40 move both distally
and proximally. Both base plates 20, 40 will move equally as they
are driven by the translating ramp 34 at the distal ramp assembly
30 and the translating ramp 35 of the proximal ramp assembly 32
assuming that the contours on both ramps 34, 35 are made identical
in surface contour and elevation. When both drive shafts 50, 52 are
turned in this position, the base plates 20, 40 are moved
relatively horizontal and parallel to each other which is more
conventional to a common expandable implant device. However, a
unique feature is that this expansion can be independently adjusted
proximally and distally to achieve this position. One drive shaft
50 or 52 can be rotated more or one less to create any desired
inclination between a range of maximum full expansion and partially
expanded and anywhere in between based on the rotational selection
chosen for each drive shaft 50, 52 by the surgeon.
[0075] With reference to FIGS. 6A-6D, various exploded views of the
components of the implant device 10 are shown. With reference to
FIG. 6A, the ramp assemblies 30, 32 are shown as individual
components, the translating ramps 34, 35 and the pivoting hinged
ramps 31, 33 respectively are illustrated. As shown the translating
ramps 34, 35 have an outer contour 37 on both an upper and a lower
surface of each translating ramp 34, 35 and have a groove 38 on
each ramp 34, 35. This groove 38 allows lateral sides of the
pivoting hinged ramps 31 and 33 to enter in a dovetail
configuration and lock into the translating ramps 34, 35. The inner
surface 39 of both the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 ride on the
outer surface 37 of the translating ramps 34 and 35 respectively.
In this fashion, during the elevation of the implant 10 from
contracted to expanded, the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 rest
securely on the surface 37 on both lateral sides of the translating
ramp 34, 35 such that the base plates 20, 40 hinged to the pivoting
hinged ramps 31, 33 at both lateral ends are fully supported across
the lateral width of the implant device 10. With reference to the
frame 60, shown slightly below the ramp assembly components, the
frame 60 is a singular piece having a distal end 62 that has a
tapered exterior surface to facilitate insertion. With reference to
the proximal end 61, grooves 63 are shown extending vertically,
these grooves 63 are provided such that the end plates 21, 41 on
the first base plate 20 and second base plate 40 can be pinned and
slidably moved within the grooves 63 or slots on the end plates 21,
41 such that on expansion of the proximal end 61 the end plates 21,
41 can pivot about pins 83 inserted through the end plates 21, 41.
This is best illustrated in FIGS. 6C and 6D. The pins 83, as shown
in FIG. 6D, engage the end plates 21, 41and are pressed into holes
23 provided in each end plate 21, 41. These holes 23 and pins 83
are shown such that the pins 83 extend sufficiently inwardly to be
captured within the slot or groove 63 in the proximal end 61. As
further shown in FIG. 6B, are a pair of drive shaft pins 82, these
drive shaft pins 82 extend through the holes 28 in the distal end
of the frame 60. These holes 28 extend across the frame 60 in such
a fashion that the distal pins 82 will engage grooves 53, shown in
FIG. 6B, at the distal end of the drive shafts 50, 52. At the
proximal end 61, pins 85 are pushed through holes in the end plate
64 and will lock into grooves 55 at the proximal end of the drive
shafts 50, 52. These pins allow the drive shafts to be captured
within the frame 60 while allowing the drive shafts 50, 52 to be
freely rotatably when positioned securely and affixed to the frame
60 by the use of these pins. With reference to FIG. 6C, the ramp
assemblies 30, 32 and drive shafts 50, 52 are shown affixed to the
frame 60 with the first base plate 20 and second base plate 40
shown above that assembly. A locking means or tab 70 is illustrated
that is affixed into an opening 29 and 49 in the two opposing end
plates 21 and 41, respectively. These locking tabs 70, when rotated
over the head of the fastener 100, prevent the fastener 100 from
backing out. This effectively completes the assembly of the implant
device 10. As further shown in FIG. 6D, the pivoting hinged ramps
31, 33 are pinned to the base plates 20, 40 through holes 27 in the
base plates and holes 22 in the pivoting hinged ramps with pins 80,
81.
[0076] With reference to FIGS. 7A-7D, end views of the implant
device 10 are illustrated. With reference to FIG. 7A, the implant
device 10 is shown in the fully contracted position. The implant
device 10, at the proximal end 61, shows the fastener openings 25
with the locking tab 70 projecting over a portion of the fastener
opening hole 25. In this condition, the fasteners 100 have yet to
be inserted into place and could not be until the locking tab 70 is
moved into an open positon. With reference to FIG. 7B, the implant
device 10 is shown in a fully expanded position as compared to FIG.
7A wherein the implant 10 was shown in the contracted position.
With reference to FIG. 7C, when the implant device 10 is in the
expanded position and inserted between the vertebral bodies, not
shown, the fasteners 100 can be inserted through the openings 25
wherein they can be delivered to and fastened to the two vertebral
bodies. To accomplish this, the locking tab 70 is rotated with a
drive tool, not shown, and the star shaped recess 72 so the opening
25 is fully exposed to allow the head of the fastener 100 to be
inserted into the hole opening 25 on insertion. With reference to
FIG. 7D, the locking tab 70 is then shown in the locked position,
rotated and covering at least partially the hole opening 25,
thereby preventing the fastener 100 from loosening and backing out
once inserted and threaded into the vertebral body.
[0077] With reference to FIGS. 8A-8H, various cross-sectional views
of the implant device 10 are illustrated. These cross-sectional
views are taken down the longitudinal length of the device 10 in
such a way that either the proximal drive shaft 50 or the distal
drive shaft 52 is shown, the cross section taken through the middle
of the respective drive shaft 50, 52. As shown in FIG. 8A, the
distal drive shaft 52 is shown with the implant device 10 in the
fully contracted position. In this case, the pivoting hinged ramps
31, 33 are shown at the lowest height on the contoured surfaces 37
of the translating ramps 34, 35 of ramp assembly 30, 32
respectively. As can be seen, the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 ride
on the exterior surface 37 of the translating ramps 34, 35 and in
the contracted position are fully contained and pinned to the
respective base plates, 20, 40. As further shown, the pins 82
holding the distal end of the drive shafts 50, 52 are shown holding
the drive shafts in place at the distal end 62, similarly the pins
85 shown extending through the end plate 64 of the frame 60 are
shown holding the drive shafts 50, 52 at the proximal end 61. There
is a drive opening 55, shown as a star shaped recess, provided at
the proximal end such that the rotation of each drive shaft 50, 52
can be accomplished by the insertion of a drive tool, not
illustrated. With reference to the drive shaft 52, threads 59 are
shown in engagement with complimentary female threads 94 on the
translating ramp 34 to be moved. As shown in the contracted
positon, these threads 94 are fully inside the translating ramp 34.
With reference to FIG. 8B, the proximal drive shaft 50 is
illustrated having the threads 58 fully engaged in the threads 95
of the proximal ramp 35, again, this is in the fully contracted
position, as previously discussed in reference to FIG. 8A. With
reference to FIG. 8C, when the implant 10 is expanded at the distal
end 62, the translating ramp 34 is moved progressively towards the
distal end 62 of the frame 60 and as it moves toward the end of the
frame 60, the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 slide up the contour on
the exterior surface 37 of the translating ramp 34 elevating the
base plates 20, 40 respectively. As shown, the translating ramps
34, 35 are equally contoured, therefore, when the drive shaft 52 is
rotated and the threads 59 drive the translating ramp 34 toward the
distal end 62, the base plates 20, 40 move equally expanding away
from the fully contracted position. With reference to FIG. 8D, when
this occurs, the proximal drive shaft 50 has not been moved where
the threads 58 are still inside the proximal translating ramp 35
engaging the threads 95. With reference to FIGS. 8E and 8F, the
implant 10 is shown with the proximal end 61 expanded and the
distal end 62 contracted. When the proximal end 61 of the implant
10 is expanded, the distal translating ramp 34 is shown in the
contracted position with the threads 59 from the distal drive 52
shaft still fully engaged in threads 94 inside the translating ramp
34. Correspondingly, when the proximal drive shaft 50 is rotated,
it drives the proximal translating ramp 35 towards the proximal end
61 of the implant 10 as the threads push it toward the proximal end
of the implant 10 elevating the base plates 20, 40 and as
previously discussed, since the ramps 34, 35 are symmetrical in
this configuration both base plates 20, 40 move equally apart at
the proximal end 61. Interestingly, when this occurs, you will
notice that the end plates 21, 41 being integral to the base plates
20, 40 will elevate accordingly, as this occurs, they slide and
rotate on the same inclination as the base plates. With reference
to FIG. 8G and 8H, when both translating ramps 34, 35 are moved
into the fully expanded position, the base plates 20, 40 are
relatively horizontal and parallel to each other, with the caveat
that there is a slight contour 20s, 40s on the outer surface of
each base plate 20, 40 as previously discussed. This contour is
quite beneficial as it provides the ability of the implant device
10 to provide a solid mimicking of the endplates of the vertebral
bodies that will be supported on implantation. When these convex
contours 20s, 40s are positioned within the vertebral body 2, 4, a
slight inclination of the base plates 20, 40 still affords a wide
surface area of support at the implant 10 as opposed to wedge type
devices with straight inclinations on their outer surface. As an
alternative embodiment, the outer surface of the base plates 20, 40
have an angle mimicking the lordotic curvature of the lumbar spine
at multiple angles, as will be discussed with reference to FIGS.
17A-19B. As shown in FIG. 8G, the distal ramp assembly 30 is fully
moved toward the expanded position when the distal translating ramp
34 is moved toward the distal end 62 of the implant 10. Similarly,
the proximal ramp assembly 35 is moved toward the proximal end 61
of the implant 10. Since they are both moved, the pivoting hinged
ramps 31, 33 are elevated by riding on the contoured surface 37 of
the translating ramps 34, 35 increasing the height of the implant
device 10 to the fully expanded position as shown in FIG. 8H.
[0078] With reference to FIG. 9A-9D, top cross sectional views are
shown to facilitate an understanding of the ramp assemblies 30, 32.
With reference to FIG. 9A, the translating ramps 34, 35 are shown
in the contracted position, thus are spaced away from the distal 62
and proximal 61 ends, as illustrated. In such a configuration, the
threads 58, 59 on each drive shaft 50, 52 are fully encased within
their respective translating ramps 34, 35. With reference to FIG.
9B, when the distal end 62 is elevated from the contracted position
as shown in FIG. 9A, the drive shaft 52 is shown with the threads
59 partially exposed wherein the translating ramp 34 at the distal
end 62 is moved distally, almost into contact with the frame 60 at
the distal end 62. With reference to FIG. 9C, shows the alternate
configuration where the translating ramp 35 is moved toward the
proximal end 61 of the implant 10 and the distal translating ramp
34 is shown in the contracted position. With reference to FIG. 9D,
in the fully expanded configuration, both translating ramps 34, 35
are shown moved toward the distal 62 and proximal 61 ends and not
spaced therefrom.
[0079] With reference to FIGS. 10A-10C, an outline drawing of the
implant device 10 from a top view is shown. In FIG. 10A, the device
10 is in a fully contracted position, whereas the top view of FIG.
10B shows the device in a fully expanded position. With reference
to FIG. 10C, the implant device 10 is shown with threaded fasteners
100 inserted in the hole openings 25. It is hoped that these
additional views showing how the device 10 is actually positioned
during the various stages of inclination and various conditions
from contracted to fully expanded and the ability of the device 10
to be distally expanded independent of proximal expansion and
proximally expanded independent of distal expansion has been shown
throughout the various views previously discussed.
[0080] With reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, cross sectional views
of the ramp assemblies 30, 32 are shown contained in the frame 60
and base plates 20, 40. In FIG. 11A, the implant device 10 is shown
in a fully contracted position, when this occurs, the implant
device 10 shows the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 with the groove 38
shown as a dovetail feature that interlocks the lateral sides of
the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 projecting inwardly the dovetail
or groove 38 of the translating ramp 34, 35 as illustrated. When
this occurs, it locks the ramp from moving laterally. As shown,
this prevents the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 from laterally
shifting when the device 10 is in the expanded position,
furthermore, the base plates 20, 40 further provide a constraint on
movement of the translating ramps 34, 35 to which the pivoting
hinged ramps 31, 33 are attached. With reference to FIG. 11B, the
pivoting hinged ramp 31, 33 is shown in the elevated or expanded
position, an important aspect of the present invention as
illustrated is that even in the fully expanded position, it is
noticed that the pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 are fully supported
on both sides by the translating ramps 34, 35. This provides
lateral stability for the base plates 20, 40 that are hinged to the
pivoting hinged ramps 31, 33 on each lateral side. This means that
the rigidity of the device 10 is extremely secure and the device 10
is unlikely to flex or twist.
[0081] With reference to FIGS. 12-15, the implant device 10 is
shown inserted between two adjacent vertebral bodies 2, 4 on
implantation. As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, it is clearly
shown how the device 10 will be implanted. FIG. 14, similarly shows
a different perspective view of the implanted device 10. FIG. 15,
on a head-on view, shows that most of the device 10 is hidden by
the disc space when inserted in between the vertebral bodies 2,
4.
[0082] An important aspect of the present invention although not
fully discussed is best seen in the top views. With reference to
FIGS. 10A-10B, top views of the implant device 10 are illustrated,
it is important to understand that the top and bottom views are
virtually identical and that the base plates 20, 40 provide a
perimeter frame with a large opening or aperture 12. When the
device 10 is in the expanded position either proximally or distally
one of the translating ramps 34, 34 will move making the aperture
or opening space 12 between the base plates 20, 40 extremely large.
When both translating ramps 34, 35 are moved into the expanded
position this aperture space is increased even further. This
provides for a large amount of space for allograft material or
other biologics to be placed inside the implant device 10 to
enhance the osteoinductive effect of new bone growth which is
extremely important in any fusion device. It is believed that this
capability is best achieved by the drive mechanisms used that are
independently driven by the mechanism of this implant device
according to the present invention.
[0083] While the present invention has been shown with endplates
21, 41, these end plates could be removed and the implant device 10
would no longer be a standalone device which can be inserted and
then fastened directly into the vertebral bodies, but may have a
separate vertebral plate that can be added if these end plates are
not provided. These optional features, when provided, show the best
mode of practicing the invention. However, they are not necessary
for utilization of the device 10 according to the present
invention.
[0084] The preferred device 10 is shown where the base plates are
provided on both an upper and a lower surface. Also, as a first
alternative embodiment, device 10A, it is understood that one base
plate could be provided only and that the frame itself would be a
stationary base plate. In such a condition either the base plate 20
or base plate 40 could be removed and only one provided, as shown
in FIG. 16. Furthermore, it is understood that the angular
inclination of the device 10, 10A is only limited by the maximum
height that the device can be expanded. The device is only limited
by the shape and contours of the ramps. As noted, the ramps have a
radius contour or curved contour such that it increases rapidly at
initial movement from a contracted position and this rate of
movement changes as the ramp achieves the peak of the curvature.
This provides for very fine tuning and adjustment by the surgeon as
he approaches a maximum condition and a larger range of height
adjustment with a constant bearing surface area for increased
stability at all expanded heights. It is further understood that
any inclination between contracted and fully expanded can be
established by simply stopping the rotation of the drive shaft. The
drive shaft will maintain its position regardless of where it is
stopped. Therefore, the surgeon can pick precisely the location he
wants to elevate the proximal or distal end independent of the
other such that any inclination can be achieved with the range of
that provided by the threads on the ramp and drive shaft and the
contour surface of the ramps themselves. These and other variations
can be achieved by the present device which is believed unique over
all expandable implant devices currently in use.
[0085] The present invention can be made in a variety of sizes, by
way of example, widths: 18 mm and 22 mm; longitudinal lengths: 40,
45, 50, 55, and 60 mm; Distal and Proximal end height: 8 mm; Center
height range: 9 mm (contracted)-15 mm (expanded); Maximum distal or
proximal angle: 40 mm length: 10.degree.; 45 mm length: 9.degree.;
50 mm length: 8.degree.; 55 mm length: 7.degree.; 60 mm length:
6.degree..
[0086] With reference to FIGS. 17A-19B, a second alternative
embodiment 10B is shown having a laterally inclined outer surface
of the base plates 20, 40 configured to mimic a lordotic curvature
of the lumbar spine. FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate a 7.degree.
Lordosis-Anterior (tall side) height range: 10 mm-16 mm. FIGS.
18A-18B illustrate a 14.degree. Lordosis-Anterior (tall side)
height range: 12 mm-18 mm. FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate a 21.degree.
Lordosis-Anterior (tall side) height range: 14 mm-20 mm. The
effective angles are achieved by changing the thickness of the left
or anterior side of the base plates relative to the right side of
the base plates.
[0087] Variations in the present invention are possible in light of
the description of it provided herein. While certain representative
embodiments and details have been shown for the purpose of
illustrating the subject invention, it will be apparent to those
skilled in this art that various changes and modifications can be
made therein without departing from the scope of the subject
invention. It is, therefore, to be understood that changes can be
made in the particular embodiments described, which will be within
the full intended scope of the invention as defined by the
following appended claims.
* * * * *