U.S. patent application number 17/121635 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-01 for bone screw.
The applicant listed for this patent is VERTISCREW, LLC. Invention is credited to Amir Ali Akhavi, Muralidhara Rudhra Raju.
Application Number | 20210093361 17/121635 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005276231 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-01 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210093361 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Raju; Muralidhara Rudhra ;
et al. |
April 1, 2021 |
Bone screw
Abstract
A bone fixation system with variable z-axis translation is
provided. The bone fixation system includes an outer tulip coupled
to a bone fastener. An inner tulip, which provides a seat for an
elongate fixation rod, is located inside the outer tulip. The inner
tulip together with a seated rod is permitted to translate along
the z-axis in an unlocked position. Also in the unlocked position,
the bone fastener is free to angulate relative to the outer tulip.
The bone fixation system includes a locked position in which the
z-axis position of the inner tulip and rod relative to the outer
tulip is fixed. Also in the locked position, the bone fastener is
locked with respect to the outer tulip. The system may be adjusted
between the locked and unlocked positions by way of a set screw or
independently by rotation of the inner tulip relative to the outer
tulip.
Inventors: |
Raju; Muralidhara Rudhra;
(Fountain Valley, CA) ; Akhavi; Amir Ali; (Irvine,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
VERTISCREW, LLC |
Dover |
DE |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005276231 |
Appl. No.: |
17/121635 |
Filed: |
December 14, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15230190 |
Aug 5, 2016 |
10881434 |
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17121635 |
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14175058 |
Feb 7, 2014 |
9451991 |
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15230190 |
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14175065 |
Feb 7, 2014 |
9463047 |
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14175058 |
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61762854 |
Feb 9, 2013 |
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61762854 |
Feb 9, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/7086 20130101;
A61B 17/8883 20130101; A61B 17/7085 20130101; A61B 17/7035
20130101; A61B 17/7091 20130101; A61B 17/862 20130101; A61B 17/7032
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/70 20060101
A61B017/70; A61B 17/88 20060101 A61B017/88; A61B 17/86 20060101
A61B017/86 |
Claims
1. A bone fixation system, comprising: a bone fastener including: a
bone engaging portion; and a head integrally connected to the bone
engaging portion; an outer receiver having a proximal end, a distal
end and a longitudinal axis; the outer receiver including: a
sidewall extending between the proximal end and the distal end and
having an inner surface and an outer surface; an inner bore
extending between a top opening at the proximal end and a bottom
opening at the distal end; the bone fastener being connected to the
outer receiver such that the bone engaging portion extends through
the bottom opening; two oppositely disposed arms defined by the
sidewall and at least one rod channel defined between the two arms;
the at least one rod channel being interconnected with the top
opening and the inner bore; the inner surface of each arm having a
longitudinally extending interlocking inner surface adjacent to a
longitudinally extending smooth surface; an interlocking inner
surface at the distal end; a first locking cap located inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver; the first locking cap having an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with the
interlocking inner surface at the distal end; the outer surface of
the first locking cap is interconnected by a top surface and a
bottom surface; the first locking cap includes two tab-engaging
surfaces; an inner receiver sized to fit inside the outer receiver;
the inner receiver including a base and two oppositely disposed
arms extending upwardly from the base; the inner receiver includes
at least one channel defined between the arms; each arm has an
interlocking inner surface and an interlocking outer surface; the
interlocking outer surface of each arm of the inner receiver being
configured to engage the interlocking inner surfaces on the arms of
the outer receiver; the inner receiver further including two
oppositely disposed tabs extending downwardly from the base; the
two tabs are configured for engagement with the two tab-engaging
surfaces on the first locking cap; wherein the inner receiver is
coupled to the first locking cap by the two tabs engaging the
tab-engaging surfaces; a second locking cap removably located
between the arms of the inner receiver and having an interlocking
outer surface configured to interlock with the interlocking inner
surface of the arms of the inner receiver; wherein the bone
fixation system includes an unlocked position in which the bone
fastener angulates with respect to the outer receiver and the inner
receiver is free to translate longitudinally with respect to the
outer receiver and a locked position in which the bone fastener and
inner receiver are fixed with respect to the outer receiver.
2. The bone fixation system of claim 1 wherein the locked position
is achieved by rotation of the inner receiver from being adjacent
to the smooth surfaces on the outer receiver to being adjacent to
the interlocking surfaces of the outer receiver to interlock the
interlocking surfaces of the outer receiver with the interlocking
outer surface of the inner receiver.
3. The bone fixation system of claim 1 wherein rotation of the
inner receiver rotates the first locking cap into interlocking
engagement with the interlocking surface of at the distal end and
downwardly within the outer receiver against the head of the bone
fastener to fix the position of the bone fastener relative to the
outer receiver.
4. The bone fixation system of claim 1 further including an
elongate fixation rod located between the two arms of the inner
receiver and in the at least one channel of the inner receiver;
wherein rotation of the second locking cap downwardly onto the rod
fixes the position of the rod relative to the inner receiver and
further rotation of the second locking cap rotates the inner
receiver relative to the outer receiver into the locked position in
which the longitudinal positions of the inner receiver and rod are
fixed with respect to the outer receiver.
5. The bone fixation system of claim 1 further including at least
one spring located between the inner receiver and the first locking
cap.
6. The bone fixation system of claim 1 wherein one or more of the
cooperating interlocking surface on the inner surface of each arm
of the outer receiver, the interlocking surface in the bone
fastener receiving location, the interlocking outer surface of the
fastener locking cap, the interlocking inner surface of each arm of
the inner receiver, the interlocking outer surface of each arm of
the inner receiver, and the interlocking outer surface of the
second locking cap is a threaded surface.
7. The bone fixation system of claim 1 the interlocking inner
surface of one arm is opposite from the interlocking inner surface
of the other arm and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from
the smooth surface of the other arm;
8. A bone fixation system, comprising: a bone fastener including: a
bone engaging portion; and a head integrally connected to the bone
engaging portion; an outer receiver having a proximal end, a distal
end and a longitudinal axis; the outer receiver including: a
sidewall extending between the proximal end and the distal end and
having an inner surface and an outer surface; an inner bore
extending between a top opening at the proximal end and a bottom
opening at the distal end; the bone fastener being connected to the
outer receiver such that the bone engaging portion extends through
the bottom opening; two oppositely disposed arms defined by the
sidewall and at least one rod channel defined between the two arms;
the at least one rod channel being interconnected with the top
opening and the inner bore; the inner surface of each arm having a
longitudinally extending interlocking inner surface adjacent to a
longitudinally extending smooth surface; an interlocking inner
surface at the distal end; a first locking cap located inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver; the first locking cap having an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with the
interlocking inner surface at the distal end of the outer receiver;
an inner receiver sized to fit inside the outer receiver; the inner
receiver including a base and two oppositely disposed arms
extending upwardly from the base; the inner receiver includes at
least one channel between the arms; each arm has an interlocking
inner surface; the inner receiver is located inside the inner bore
of outer receiver such that the oppositely disposed arms of the
inner receiver are disposed in the location of the smooth surfaces
and the interlocking inner surface of each arm is flush with the
adjacent interlocking surfaces of the outer receiver; a second
locking cap located between the arms of the inner receiver and
having an interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with
both the interlocking inner surface of the arms of the inner
receiver and the adjacent interlocking inner surface of the arms of
the outer receiver; wherein the inner receiver includes an unlocked
position in which the inner receiver is free to translate
longitudinally with respect to the outer receiver and a locked
position in which the inner receiver is fixed with respect to the
outer receiver; and wherein the locked position is achieved by the
interlocking outer surface of the second locking cap engaging both
the interlocking inner surface of the outer receiver and the
interlocking inner surface of the inner receiver.
9. The bone fixation system of claim 8 wherein the bone fastener
includes an unlocked position in which the bone fastener angulates
with respect to the outer receiver and a locked position in which
the bone fastener is fixed with respect to the outer receiver; the
locked position is achieved by rotation of the first locking cap
into interlocking engagement with the interlocking inner surface at
the distal end and downwardly within the bore of the outer receiver
against the head of the bone fastener to fix the position of the
bone fastener relative to the outer receiver.
10. The bone fixation system of claim 8 further including an
elongate fixation rod located between the two arms of the inner
receiver and in the at least one channel of the inner receiver;
wherein rotation of the second locking cap downwardly onto the rod
fixes the position of the rod relative to the inner receiver.
11. The bone fixation system of claim 8 wherein the first locking
cap is accessible from the at least one rod channel for being moved
relative to the outer receiver.
12. The bone fixation system of claim 8 further including at least
one spring located between the first locking cap and the inner
receiver.
13. The bone fixation system of claim 8 the interlocking inner
surface of one arm is opposite from the interlocking inner surface
of the other arm and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from
the smooth surface of the other arm;
14. A bone fixation system, comprising: an outer receiver including
a sidewall that defines an inner bore and an open proximal end; the
sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface that defines at
least one channel opening to the inner bore and the open proximal
end; the outer receiver includes an interlocking outer surface
formed on the outer surface; an inner receiver including a sidewall
that defines an interior, an open proximal end, and an inner base
at a distal end; the sidewall having an inner surface and an outer
surface that defines at least one channel opening to the interior
and the open proximal end; the inner receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface formed on the inner surface; the inner
receiver being located inside the outer receiver such that the at
least one channel of the inner receiver is substantially aligned
with the at least one channel of the outer receiver; the inner
receiver being movable along a longitudinal axis relative to the
outer receiver in an unlocked position; and a locking cap having an
interlocking outwardly-facing surface and an interlocking
inwardly-facing surface; the interlocking outwardly-facing surface
being movable independently and relative to the interlocking
inwardly-facing surface; the interlocking outwardly-facing surface
being located in the inner receiver and interlocked with the
interlocking inner surface of the inner receiver in a first locked
position and the interlocking inwardly-facing surface being
interlocked with the interlocking outer surface of the outer
receiver in a second locked position; wherein the second locked
position prevents the longitudinal translation of the inner
receiver relative to the outer receiver.
15. The bone fixation system of claim 14 further including a rod
disposed inside the at least one channel of the inner receiver;
wherein the first locked position fixes the rod to the inner
receiver between the base and the locking cap.
16. A bone fixation system, comprising: an outer receiver having an
inner bore and an open proximal end; an inner receiver having an
inner bore and an open proximal end; the inner receiver being
located inside an outer receiver; the inner receiver being movable
along a longitudinal axis relative to the outer receiver in an
unlocked position and the inner receiver being longitudinally fixed
relative to the outer receiver in a locked position; a set screw
located inside the inner receiver and movable rotationally about
and along the longitudinal axis relative to the inner receiver;
wherein converting between the locked and unlocked positions is
achieved by rotation of the inner receiver relative to the outer
receiver; wherein the locked position is achieved by rotation of
the set screw downwardly relative to the inner receiver.
17. The bone fixation system of claim 16 further including a bone
engaging portion configured to anchor in bone coupled to the outer
receiver.
18. The bone fixation system of claim 16 further including an
elongate fixation rod located inside the inner receiver and under
the set screw; the elongate fixation rod being movable
longitudinally with the inner receiver.
19. The bone fixation system of claim 16 wherein in the unlocked
position the bone engaging portion is movable with respect to the
outer receiver and in the locked position the bone engaging portion
is fixed with respect to the outer receiver.
20. The bone fixation system of claim 16 wherein the set screw
engages both the inner receiver and the outer receiver directly to
effect the locked position.
21. The bone fixation system of claim 16 wherein the set screw
engages the inner receiver which in turn engages the outer receiver
to effect the locked position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/230,190 filed on Aug. 5, 2016 entitled
"Bone screw" which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/175,058 filed on Feb. 7, 2014 entitled "Bone screw" now
U.S. Pat. No. 9,451,991 which claims priority to and benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/762,854 entitled
"Threaded bone screw with variable Z-axis translation" filed on
Feb. 9, 2013, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/230,190 filed on
Aug. 5, 2016 entitled "Bone screw" is also a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/175,065 filed on Feb. 7, 2014
entitled "Bone screw" now U.S. Pat. No. 9,463,047 which claims
priority to and benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 61/762,854 entitled "Threaded bone screw with variable Z-axis
translation" filed on Feb. 9, 2013, all of which are incorporated
by reference in their entirety herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to surgical devices and
methods, and in particular, to bone fixation devices used in spinal
surgery.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Spinal fusion is a common surgical procedure used to correct
numerous disease states including degenerative disorders, trauma,
instability, and deformity. A frequent method of fusion entails the
use of bone screws placed through various sections of the vertebral
body including the body, pedicle, facets, lamina, lateral masses,
and/or transverse processes. These screws are then linked rigidly
with a rod, plate or other fixation device to immobilize the
vertebral segments.
[0004] Due to the variation in a patient's anatomy and differences
in screw placement technique, screws are often not perfectly
aligned which makes securement of a fixation device more difficult.
To solve this, many screws that have a threaded shank portion
incorporate an articulating tulip or receiver connected to the
proximal end of the shank portion, such as in a polyaxial or
multi-axial bone screw. Polyaxial bone screws allow for a variation
in the angulation of the tulip/receiver relative to the shank
portion in order to allow the tulip/receiver to more closely align
for receiving a fixation device such as a fixation rod within the
tulip/receiver. Some bone screws allow for the lateral translation
of the tulip/receiver relative to its point of fixation. Further
alignment may be accomplished by contouring of the fixation device
itself to compensate for any remaining misalignment. For example,
if a fixation rod is employed, the rod is bent to conform to the
patient anatomy and location of the tulip/receiver to securely
attach thereto.
[0005] A body in three-dimensional space has six degrees of
freedom, namely, translation through the perpendicular x, y, and z
planes, combined with the rotation through the three perpendicular
axes (pitch, yaw, and roll). Typical articulating polyaxial screws
allow three dimensional rotations (pitch, yaw, and roll). Some
designs also incorporate lateral x-plane translation. Longitudinal
translation (y-plane), generally along the cephalad-caudal
direction or axis of the fixating rod or plate, is usually
accomplished by fixing the tulip/receiver to different positions
along the rod or plate.
[0006] Anterior/posterior translation (along the z-plane) is
typically accomplished by persuading the vertebral body itself,
using instruments to raise or lower the vertebral body until the
tulip/receiver is properly aligned with the rod or plate.
Frequently, however, this anterior/posterior translation may not be
desirable as it may produce suboptimal alignment of the vertebral
bodies or even cause fractures of the bone or pullout of the shank
portion of the screw from the bone due to the stresses placed on it
during the persuading process. The other option for adjustment
along the z-axis employed is to partially back out the screw,
leaving it proud. This, however, reduces the bone-screw interface
thereby weakening the overall strength of the construct. Some
designs, such as the one illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 7,588,593,
allow for vertical adjustment but require manual assembly of the
screw and head construct during surgery. Hence, there is a need for
modular bone screw assemblies that can provide variable angle
orientation together with z-axis translation which are easy to
assemble.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, a bone fixation
system is provided. The bone fixation system includes a bone
fastener having a bone engaging portion and a head connected to the
bone engaging portion. The system includes an outer receiver having
a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis. The outer
receiver includes a sidewall extending between the proximal end and
the distal end and having an inner surface and an outer surface. An
inner bore extends through the outer receiver between a top opening
at the proximal end and a bottom opening at the distal end. The
bone fastener is connected to the outer receiver such that the bone
engaging portion extends through the bottom opening. The outer
receiver includes two oppositely disposed arms that are defined by
the sidewall and at least one rod channel that is defined between
the two arms. The at least one rod channel is interconnected with
the top opening and the inner bore. The inner surface of each arm
has a longitudinally extending interlocking surface adjacent to a
longitudinally extending smooth surface. The interlocking surface
of one arm is opposite from the interlocking surface of the other
arm and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from the smooth
surface of the other arm. The outer receiver further includes an
interlocking inner surface at the distal end. The bone fixation
system further includes a first locking cap located inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver. The first locking cap has an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with the
interlocking inner surface at the distal end of the outer receiver.
The first locking cap has at least one upwardly extending tab. The
bone fixation system further includes an inner receiver that is
sized to fit inside the outer receiver. The inner receiver includes
a base and two oppositely disposed arms extending upwardly from the
base. The inner receiver includes at least one channel defined
between the arms. Each arm has an interlocking inner surface and an
interlocking outer surface. The interlocking outer surface of each
arm of the inner receiver is configured to engage the interlocking
surfaces on the arms of the outer receiver. The inner receiver is
coupled to the first locking cap by the at least one tab. A second
locking cap is removably located between the arms of the inner
receiver and has an interlocking outer surface configured to
interlock with the interlocking inner surface of the arms of the
inner receiver. The bone fixation system includes an unlocked
position in which the bone fastener angulates with respect to the
outer receiver and the inner receiver is free to translate
longitudinally with respect to the outer receiver; and a locked
position in which the bone fastener and inner receiver are fixed
with respect to the outer receiver.
[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes a
bone fastener having a bone engaging portion and a head integrally
connected to the bone engaging portion. The system includes an
outer receiver having a proximal end, a distal end and a
longitudinal axis. The outer receiver has a sidewall extending
between the proximal end and the distal end and an inner surface
and an outer surface. The outer receiver includes an inner bore
extending between a top opening at the proximal end and a bottom
opening at the distal end. The bone fastener is connected to the
outer receiver such that the bone engaging portion extends through
the bottom opening. The outer receiver includes two oppositely
disposed arms defined by the sidewall and at least one rod channel
defined between the two arms. The at least one rod channel is
interconnected with the top opening and the inner bore. The inner
surface of each arm of the outer receiver has a longitudinally
extending interlocking inner surface adjacent to a longitudinally
extending smooth surface. The interlocking inner surface of one arm
is opposite from the interlocking inner surface of the other arm
and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from the smooth
surface of the other arm. The outer receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface at the distal end. The bone fixation
system further includes a first locking cap located inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver. The first locking cap has an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with the
interlocking inner surface at the distal end. The outer surface of
the first locking cap is interconnected by a top surface and a
bottom surface. The first locking cap includes two tab-engaging
surfaces. The bone fixation system further includes an inner
receiver sized to fit inside the outer receiver. The inner receiver
includes a base and two oppositely disposed arms extending upwardly
from the base. The inner receiver includes at least one channel
defined between the arms and each arm has an interlocking inner
surface and an interlocking outer surface. The interlocking outer
surface of each arm of the inner receiver is configured to engage
the interlocking inner surfaces on the arms of the outer receiver.
The inner receiver further includes two oppositely disposed tabs
extending downwardly from the base. The two tabs are configured for
engagement with the two tab-engaging surfaces on the first locking
cap. The inner receiver is coupled to the first locking cap by the
two tabs engaging the tab-engaging surfaces. The bone fixation
system further includes a second locking cap removably located
between the arms of the inner receiver and having an interlocking
outer surface configured to interlock with the interlocking inner
surface of the arms of the inner receiver. The bone fixation system
includes an unlocked position in which the bone fastener angulates
with respect to the outer receiver and the inner receiver is free
to translate longitudinally with respect to the outer receiver and
a locked position in which the bone fastener and inner receiver are
fixed with respect to the outer receiver.
[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes an
outer receiver having an inner bore and an open proximal end and an
inner receiver having an inner bore and an open proximal end. The
inner receiver is located inside an outer receiver. The inner
receiver is movable along a longitudinal axis relative to the outer
receiver in an unlocked position and the inner receiver is
longitudinally fixed relative to the outer receiver in a locked
position. Converting between the locked and unlocked positions is
achieved by rotation of the inner receiver relative to the outer
receiver.
[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes an
outer receiver having a sidewall that defines an inner bore and an
open proximal end. The sidewall has an inner surface and an outer
surface that defines at least one channel opening to the inner bore
and the open proximal end. The outer receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface formed on the inner surface. The bone
fixation system further includes an inner receiver including a
sidewall that defines an interior, an open proximal end, and an
inner base at a distal end. The sidewall has an inner surface and
an outer surface that defines at least one channel opening to the
interior and the open proximal end. The inner receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface formed on the inner surface and an
interlocking outer surface formed on the outer surface. The inner
receiver is located inside the outer receiver such that the at
least one channel of the inner receiver is substantially aligned
with the at least one channel of the outer receiver. The inner
receiver is movable along a longitudinal axis relative to the outer
receiver in an unlocked position. A rod is disposed inside the at
least one channel of the inner receiver. The bone fixation system
further includes a first locking cap having an interlocking outer
surface. The first locking cap is located in the inner receiver
such that the interlocking outer surface of the first locking cap
is interlocked with the interlocking inner surface of the inner
receiver in a first locked position. The rod is located between the
inner base and the first locking cap and the inner receiver is free
to translate longitudinally in the first locked position.
[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes a
bone fastener having a bone engaging portion and a head integrally
connected to the bone engaging portion. The bone fixation system
further includes an outer receiver having a proximal end, a distal
end and a longitudinal axis. The outer receiver has a sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end and an inner
surface and an outer surface. An inner bore extends between a top
opening at the proximal end and a bottom opening at the distal end
of the outer receiver. The bone fixation system further includes a
bone fastener connected to the outer receiver such that the bone
engaging portion extends through the bottom opening. Two oppositely
disposed arms are defined by the sidewall of the outer receiver and
at least one rod channel is defined between the two arms. The at
least one rod channel is interconnected with the top opening and
the inner bore. The inner surface of each arm has a longitudinally
extending interlocking inner surface adjacent to a longitudinally
extending smooth surface. The interlocking inner surface of one arm
is opposite from the interlocking inner surface of the other arm
and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from the smooth
surface of the other arm. The outer receiver further includes an
interlocking inner surface at the distal end. The bone fixation
system further includes a first locking cap located inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver. The first locking cap has an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with the
interlocking inner surface at the distal end of the outer receiver.
The bone fixation system further includes an inner receiver sized
to fit inside the outer receiver. The inner receiver includes a
base and two oppositely disposed arms extending upwardly from the
base. The inner receiver includes at least one channel between the
arms. Each arm has an interlocking inner surface. The inner
receiver is located inside the inner bore of outer receiver such
that the oppositely disposed arms of the inner receiver are
disposed in the location of the smooth surfaces and the
interlocking inner surface of each arm is flush with the adjacent
interlocking surfaces of the outer receiver. The bone fixation
system further includes a second locking cap located between the
arms of the inner receiver. The second locking cap has an
interlocking outer surface configured to interlock with both the
interlocking inner surface of the arms of the inner receiver and
the adjacent interlocking inner surface of the arms of the outer
receiver. The inner receiver includes an unlocked position in which
the inner receiver is free to translate longitudinally with respect
to the outer receiver and a locked position in which the inner
receiver is fixed with respect to the outer receiver. The locked
position is achieved by the interlocking outer surface of the
second locking cap engaging both the interlocking inner surface of
the outer receiver and the interlocking inner surface of the inner
receiver.
[0012] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes an
outer receiver. The outer receiver has a sidewall that defines an
inner bore and an open proximal end. The sidewall has an inner
surface and an outer surface that defines at least one channel
opening to the inner bore and the open proximal end. The outer
receiver includes an interlocking inner surface formed on the inner
surface. The bone fixation system further includes an inner
receiver. The inner receiver has a sidewall that defines an
interior, an open proximal end, and an inner base at a distal end.
The sidewall of the inner receiver has an inner surface and an
outer surface that defines at least one channel opening to the
interior and the open proximal end. The inner receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface formed on the inner surface. The inner
receiver is located inside the outer receiver such that the at
least one channel of the inner receiver is substantially aligned
with the at least one channel of the outer receiver. The inner
receiver is movable along a longitudinal axis relative to the outer
receiver in an unlocked position. The bone fixation system further
includes a locking cap having an interlocking outer surface. The
locking cap is located in the inner receiver and interlocked with
the interlocking inner surface of the outer receiver and the
interlocking inner surface of the inner receiver in a locked
position wherein longitudinal translation of the inner receiver is
fixed relative to the outer receiver.
[0013] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes an
outer receiver. The outer receiver has a sidewall that defines an
inner bore and an open proximal end. The sidewall has an inner
surface and an outer surface that defines at least one channel
opening to the inner bore and the open proximal end. The outer
receiver includes an interlocking outer surface formed on the outer
surface. The bone fixation system further includes an inner
receiver. The inner receiver has a sidewall that defines an
interior, an open proximal end, and an inner base at a distal end.
The sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface that defines
at least one channel opening to the interior and the open proximal
end. The inner receiver includes an interlocking inner surface
formed on the inner surface. The inner receiver is located inside
the outer receiver such that the at least one channel of the inner
receiver is substantially aligned with the at least one channel of
the outer receiver. The inner receiver is movable along a
longitudinal axis relative to the outer receiver in an unlocked
position. The bone fixation system includes a locking cap. The
locking cap has an interlocking outwardly-facing surface and an
interlocking inwardly-facing surface. The interlocking
outwardly-facing surface is movable independently and relative to
the interlocking inwardly-facing surface. The interlocking
outwardly-facing surface is located in the inner receiver and
interlocked with the interlocking inner surface of the inner
receiver in a first locked position. The interlocking
inwardly-facing surface is interlocked with the interlocking outer
surface of the outer receiver in a second locked position. The
second locked position prevents the longitudinal translation of the
inner receiver relative to the outer receiver.
[0014] According to another aspect of the invention, a bone
fixation system is provided. The bone fixation system includes a
bone fastener having a bone-engaging portion and a head integrally
connected to the bone-engaging portion. The bone fixation system
further includes an outer receiver having a proximal end, a distal
end and a longitudinal axis. The outer receiver includes a sidewall
extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The outer
receiver has an inner surface and an outer surface and an inner
bore extending between a top opening at the proximal end. The outer
receiver includes a bottom opening at the distal end. The bone
fastener is connected to the outer receiver such that the
bone-engaging portion extends through the bottom opening. The outer
receiver includes two oppositely disposed arms defined by the
sidewall and at least one rod channel defined between the two arms.
The at least one rod channel is interconnected with the top opening
and the inner bore. The outer surface of each arm has a
longitudinally extending interlocking outer surface adjacent to a
longitudinally extending smooth surface. The interlocking outer
surface of one arm is opposite from the interlocking outer surface
of the other arm and the smooth surface of one arm is opposite from
the smooth surface of the other arm. The outer receiver includes an
interlocking inner surface at the distal end. The bone fixation
system includes a first locking cap located inside the inner bore
of the outer receiver. The first locking cap has an interlocking
outer surface configured to interlock with the interlocking inner
surface at the distal end of the outer receiver. The bone fixation
system further includes inner receiver that includes a base and two
oppositely disposed arms extending upwardly from the base. At least
one channel is defined between the arms. Each arm has an
interlocking inner surface. The inner receiver is located inside
the inner bore of the outer receiver. The bone fixation system
includes a second locking cap having an outer surface and inner
surface interconnected by a top surface and a bottom surface. The
second locking cap has two oppositely disposed, downwardly
extending legs; each leg has an interlocking inner surface
configured to engage the longitudinally extending interlocking
outer surface of each arm of the outer receiver. The second locking
cap includes a cylinder configured to rotate relative to the legs.
The cylinder includes an interlocking outer surface that is
configured to engage with the interlocking inner surface of the
inner receiver. The cylinder is connected to the inner receiver by
engagement of the threaded outer surface of the cylinder with the
threaded inner surface of the inner receiver. The inner receiver
includes an unlocked position in which the inner receiver is free
to translate longitudinally with respect to the outer receiver and
a locked position in which the inner receiver is fixed with respect
to the outer receiver. The bone fastener includes an unlocked
position in which the bone fastener angulates with respect to the
outer receiver and a locked position in which the bone fastener is
fixed with respect to the outer receiver. The first locking cap is
rotated into interlocking engagement with the interlocking surface
of the interlocking inner surface at the distal end and downwardly
within the inner bore of the outer receiver against the head of the
bone fastener into the locked position to fix the position of the
bone fastener relative to the outer receiver. The top surface of
the second locking cap includes slots for engaging a tool to rotate
the legs of the second locking cap between the unlocked and locked
positions. The bone fixation system further includes a cover having
a circular top and a plurality of downwardly extending,
circumferentially located legs. The top has at least one slot
configured to access the slots of the second locking cap. The bone
fixation system further includes an elongate fixation rod located
between the arms of the inner receiver. Rotation of the cylinder of
the second locking cap downwardly onto the rod fixes the position
of the rod relative to the inner receiver. In the locked position,
the legs of the second locking cap are interlocked with the outer
receiver.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The invention is best understood from the following detailed
description when read in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the
various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On the contrary
the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily expanded or
reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following
figures:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a top perspective, exploded view of a bone
fixation system according to the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of an outer receiver
according to the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a fastener locking cap
according to the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of an inner receiver
according to the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 5A is a top view of a bone fixation system according to
the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5B-5B of
FIG. 5A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 6A is a top view of the bone fixation system according
to the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6B-6B of
FIG. 6A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 7A is a top view of a bone fixation system according to
the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7B-7B of
FIG. 7A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 8B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 9A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 9B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a top perspective, exploded view of a bone
fixation system according to the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 11A is a top perspective view of an outer receiver
according to the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 11B is a top perspective view of a fastener lock
according to the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of an inner receiver
according to the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a set screw according
to the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of a cover according to
the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 15A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a bone fastener according to the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 15B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation
system without a bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0038] FIG. 16A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a bone fastener according to the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 16B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation
system without a bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0040] FIG. 17A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a bone fastener according to the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 17B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation
system without a bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0042] FIG. 18A is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a bone fastener according to the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 18B is a side elevational view of a bone fixation
system without a bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0044] FIG. 19 is a top perspective, exploded view of a bone
fixation system according to the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of an outer receiver
according to the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a fastener locking cap
according to the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of an inner receiver
according to the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a bone fastener system
according to the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of a bone fastener system
according to the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of a driver instrument
according to the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of a driver instrument and
bone fixation system according to the present invention.
[0052] FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 28 is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0054] FIG. 29A is a top perspective view of a tool according to
the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 29B is a side elevational view of a tool according to
the present invention.
[0056] FIG. 30A is a top perspective and sectional view of a tool
and bone fixation system according to the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 30B is a sectional view of section 30B of FIG. 30A of a
tool and bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0058] FIG. 31A is a top perspective and sectional view of a tool
and bone fixation system according to the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 31B is a top perspective and sectional view of a tool
and bone fixation system without a set screw according to the
present invention.
[0060] FIG. 32A is a top perspective and sectional view of a tool
and bone fixation system according to the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 32B is a top perspective and sectional view of a tool
and bone fixation system without a set screw according to the
present invention.
[0062] FIG. 33A is a top perspective view of an outer receiver
according to the present invention.
[0063] FIG. 33B is a top perspective view of a fastener locking cap
according to the present invention.
[0064] FIG. 34 is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
according to the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 35 is a top perspective, exploded view of a bone
fixation system according to the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 36 is a top perspective view of an outer receiver
according to the present invention.
[0067] FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of a fastener locking cap
according to the present invention.
[0068] FIG. 38A is a top perspective view of an inner receiver
according to the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 38B is a top perspective view of an inner receiver
according to the present invention.
[0070] FIG. 39A is a top view of a bone fixation system according
to the present invention.
[0071] FIG. 39B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 39B-39B
of FIG. 39A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0072] FIG. 40A is a top view of a bone fixation system according
to the present invention.
[0073] FIG. 40B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 40B-40B
of FIG. 40A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0074] FIG. 41A is a top view of a bone fixation system according
to the present invention.
[0075] FIG. 41B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 41B-41B
of FIG. 41A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0076] FIG. 42A is a top view of a bone fixation system according
to the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 42B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 42B-42B
of FIG. 42A of a bone fixation system according to the present
invention.
[0078] FIG. 42C is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a set screw and bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0079] FIG. 42D is a bottom perspective view of a bone fixation
system without a set screw and bone fastener according to the
present invention.
[0080] FIG. 42E is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system
without a set screw and bone fastener according to the present
invention.
[0081] FIG. 42F is a bottom perspective view of a bone fixation
system without a set screw and bone fastener according to the
present invention.
[0082] FIG. 43 is a top perspective, exploded view of a rod
reduction instrument according to the present invention.
[0083] FIG. 44 is a top perspective view of a rod reduction
instrument according to the present invention.
[0084] FIG. 45 is a side elevational, transparent view of a rod
reduction instrument according to the present invention.
[0085] FIG. 46 is a side elevational, transparent view of a rod
reduction instrument according to the present invention.
[0086] FIG. 47A is a side elevational view, sectional of a bone
fixation system and rod reduction instrument according to the
present invention.
[0087] FIG. 47B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 47B-47B
of FIG. 47A of a bone fixation system and rod reduction instrument
according to the present invention.
[0088] FIG. 48A is a side elevational, sectional view of a bone
fixation system and rod reduction instrument according to the
present invention.
[0089] FIG. 48B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 48B-48B
of FIG. 48A of a bone fixation system and rod reduction instrument
according to the present invention.
[0090] FIG. 49A is a top view of bone fixation system and rod
reduction instrument according to the present invention.
[0091] FIG. 49B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 49B-49B
of FIG. 49A of a bone fixation system and rod reduction instrument
according to the present invention.
[0092] FIG. 50A is a top view of bone fixation system and rod
reduction instrument according to the present invention.
[0093] FIG. 50B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 50B-50B
of FIG. 50A of a bone fixation system and rod reduction instrument
according to the present invention.
[0094] FIG. 51 is a top perspective view of a bone fixation system,
rod reduction instrument, tool, and driver instrument according to
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0095] Before the subject devices, systems and methods are
described, it is to be understood that this invention is not
limited to particular embodiments described, as such may, of
course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used
herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments
only, and not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the
present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.
[0096] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.
[0097] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural
referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for
example, reference to "a spinal segment" may include a plurality of
such spinal segments and reference to "the screw" includes
reference to one or more screws and equivalents thereof known to
those skilled in the art, and so forth.
[0098] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that
each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper
and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each
smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a
stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that
stated range is encompassed within the invention. The upper and
lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included
or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or
both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed
within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in
the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of
the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included
limits are also included in the invention.
[0099] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by
reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in
connection with which the publications are cited. The publications
discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to
the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be
construed as an admission that the present invention is not
entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention.
Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from
the actual publication dates which may need to be independently
confirmed.
[0100] It should also be understood that the term "system", when
referring to a system of the present invention, most typically
refers to a set of components which includes multiple bone
stabilization components such as a superior or cephalad component
configured for implantation into a superior vertebra of a vertebral
motion segment and an inferior or caudal (towards the feet)
component configured for implantation into an inferior vertebra of
a vertebral motion segment. A pair of such component sets may
include one set of components configured for implantation into and
stabilization of the left side of a vertebral segment and another
set configured for the implantation into and stabilization of the
right side of a vertebral segment. Where multiple bone segments
such as spinal segments or units are being treated, the term
"system" may refer to two or more pairs of component sets, i.e.,
two or more left sets and/or two or more right sets of components.
Such a multilevel system involves stacking of component sets in
which each set includes a superior component, an inferior
component, and one or more medial components therebetween.
[0101] The superior and inferior components (and any medial
components therebetween), when operatively implanted, may be
engaged or interface with each other in a manner that enables the
treated spinal motion segment to mimic the function and movement of
a healthy segment, or may simply fuse the segments such as to
eliminate pain and/or promote or enhance healing. The
interconnecting or interface means include one or more structures
or members that enables, limits and/or otherwise selectively
controls spinal or other body motion. The structures may perform
such functions by exerting various forces on the system components,
and thus on the target vertebrae. The manner of coupling,
interfacing, engagement or interconnection between the subject
system components may involve compression, distraction, rotation or
torsion, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the
extent or degree of these forces or motions between the components
may be intra-operatively selected and/or adjusted to address the
condition being treated, to accommodate the particular spinal
anatomy into which the system is implanted, and to achieve the
desired therapeutic result.
[0102] In certain embodiments, the multiple components, such as
superior and inferior spinal components, are mechanically coupled
to each other by one or more interconnecting or interfacing means
or fixation devices such as elongate fixation members, rods and
plates but are not limited thereto. In other embodiments,
components interface, in a manner that constrains their relative
movement and enables the treated segment to mimic the function or
partial function and/or movement or partial movement of a healthy
segment. Typically, spinal interconnecting means is a dorsally
positioned component, i.e., positioned posterior of the superior
and inferior components, or may be a laterally positioned
component, i.e., positioned to the outer side of the posterior and
inferior components. The structures may include one or more struts
and/or joints that provide for stabilized spinal motion. The
various system embodiments may further include a band,
interchangeably referred to as a ligament, which provides a
tensioned relationship between the superior and inferior components
and helps to maintain the proper relationship between the
components.
[0103] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in
the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference
numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same
or like parts. In addition, each of the inventive embodiments
described herein may be employed in a percutaneous, minimally
invasive surgical procedure, a mini-open procedure or an open
procedure. Utilization of minimally invasive techniques can shorten
the procedure's time and speed recovery by the patient. The
application of these inventions in a minimally invasive manner is
not a requirement. Also, the invention is not limited to the spine
and may be employed in other areas where fixation to bone is useful
either in human or animal applications.
[0104] Turning to FIG. 1, there is shown a bone fixation system 20
suitable for use in orthopedic surgery. In particular, the bone
fixation systems in the present invention are all adapted for use
in spinal fixation procedures and as such can be installed in a
patient for treating at least one or more of the following:
degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis,
spinal deformities, fractures, pseudarthrosis, tumors, failed
previous fusions, other vertebral segment trauma or diseases.
However, the invention is not so limited and various aspects of the
present invention may have application for other procedures. The
bone fixation system 20 includes a bone fastener 22, an outer
receiver or outer tulip 24 coupled to the bone fastener 22, a
fastener locking cap 26, an inner receiver or inner tulip 28, and a
rod locking cap or set screw 30. The bone fixation system 20 may
also include an elongate fixation member or connecting rod 32. It
should be noted, however, that although the bone fixation system 20
is generally illustrated and described as a single assembly for use
with a single connecting rod 32, any combination of bone fixation
systems 20 and connecting rods 32 can be employed during a surgical
procedure. For example, in a single level spinal fixation
procedure, two bone fixation systems 20 can receive a single
connecting rod 32 along one side of the spine and two bone fixation
systems 20 can receive another connecting rod 32 along the opposite
side of the spine. A multiple level spinal fixation procedure,
however, will generally require additional bone fixation systems
20. In addition, the bone fixation systems 20 need not be coupled
to adjacent vertebral bodies, but rather, the bone fixation systems
20 can be positioned so as to skip adjacent vertebral bodies if
desired. The bone fixation system 20 can be composed of any
suitable material, such as titanium, stainless steel, metal, metal
alloys, polymers, synthetic polymers such as polyether ether ketone
(PEEK), plastics or any other sufficiently rigid and strong
material which is biologically compatible and can maintain its
strength in vivo for at least six months. The various components of
the bone fixation system 20 can be made of materials that are
different from the other components of the system 20.
[0105] Still referencing FIG. 1, the bone fastener 22 is configured
to engage the anatomy to couple the bone fixation system 20 to the
anatomy. The bone fastener 22 includes a head 34 at a proximal end
and an elongate threaded shank portion 36 extending between the
head 34 and a distal end along a longitudinal axis. The bone
fastener 22 is configured as a typical bone screw; however, the
invention is not so limited and any fastener or other-shaped anchor
may be employed such as a laminar hook. The bone fastener 22 may be
a self-tapping bone screw having at least one cutting flute.
Alternatively, a bone screw that requires a hole to be pre-tapped
prior to insertion may be employed. The head 34 can be generally
arcuate having a curved or bulbous outer surface and may be
spherical or partially spherical in shape. The head 34 can include
a driver connection feature 38 at the proximal end for mating with
any type of driver such as a hex tool having a hexagonal distal tip
to enable the application of torque to drive the bone fastener 22
into the anatomy. Generally, the head 34 has a wider lateral
dimension relative to the lateral dimension of the shank portion
36.
[0106] Turning now to FIG. 2, the outer receiver or outer tulip 24
will now be described in detail. The outer receiver 24 includes a
sidewall 40 having an outer surface and an inner surface. The
sidewall 40 forms a proximal opening 42 at the proximal end leading
into a substantially cylindrical inner bore that extends to a
distal opening 44 at the distal end of the outer receiver 24. The
distal opening 44 is configured for receiving at least a part of
the shank portion 36 and/or head 34 of the bone fastener 22. The
inner surface of the outer receiver 24 at the distal end defines a
bone fastener-receiving location 46. The inner surface of the outer
receiver 24 in the bone fastener-receiving location 46 is contoured
to form a conforming seat for the bone fastener 22 such that when
the bone fastener 22 is inserted into the distal opening 44, the
bone fastener 22 may freely pivot and angulate polyaxially
unimpeded relative to the outer receiver 24 as well as rotate about
the longitudinal axis of the fastener 22. The inner surface of the
outer receiver 24 in the bone fastener-receiving location 46
includes threads 48 or other interlocking surface configured for
engagement with threads or complimentary interlocking surface on
the outer surface of the fastener locking cap 26.
[0107] The sidewall 40 of the outer receiver 24 forms two
upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 50. The arms 50 are spaced
apart from each other to define at least one channel 52 in the
sidewall 40. In one variation, the channels 52 comprise two
oppositely disposed, substantially U-shaped spaces that
interconnect with the proximal opening 42 and the inner bore of the
outer receiver 24. The channels 52 are shaped to receive an
elongate fixation member 32 such as a spinal fixation rod or other
elongate member to be connected to the outer receiver 24 by
placement of the elongate fixation member 32 into the channels 52.
The outer receiver 24 includes a rod-receiving location 54. The
rod-receiving location 54 is generally located above the bone
fastener receiving location 46. In the rod-receiving location 50 of
the outer receiver 24, the inner surface defines at least two
oppositely disposed threaded portions or inner interlocking
surfaces 56. These threaded portions 56 extend longitudinally
vertically in the rod-receiving location 54 and are configured to
threadingly engage threads or other complimentary interlocking
features formed on the outer surface of the rod locking cap 30.
Adjacent to the threaded portions 56 are two oppositely disposed
smooth surfaces 58 that also run longitudinally vertically in the
rod-receiving location 54. The smooth surfaces 58 provide the inner
receiver 28 with a channel or location for unimpeded longitudinal,
vertical translation of the inner receiver 28 relative to the outer
receiver 24. The smooth surfaces 58 may appear as vertical notches
or recessed portions formed into the inner surface of the outer
receiver 24. Hence, the inner surface of the outer receiver 24
includes both recessed regions 58 and non-recessed regions 56. The
non-recessed regions 56 include threads 60. The recessed regions 58
are recessed with respect to the non-recessed regions 56. The
recessed regions 58 are smooth surfaces that extend longitudinally
vertically adjacent to the longitudinally extending non-recessed
threaded regions 56 in the rod receiving location 54. The recessed
regions 58 are configured to receive the arms of the inner receiver
28 such that the inner receiver 28 may translate vertically
relative to the outer receiver 24 within the recessed regions 58.
With the inner receiver 28 positioned within the recessed regions
58, the inner surface of the arms of the inner receiver 28 are
flush with the non-recessed regions 56 of the inner surface of the
outer receiver 24 as are their respectively interlocking
surfaces/threads to provide a smooth transition between them for
unimpeded locking engagement. The outer surface of the outer
receiver 24 may include two small holes (not shown) oppositely
disposed in the arms 50 for permitting a reduction instrument or
other instrument to grasp onto the outer receiver 24.
[0108] With reference to FIG. 3, the fastener locking cap 26 will
now be described. The fastener locking cap 26 includes an outer
surface 62 and an inner surface 64 interconnected by a top surface
66 and a bottom surface 68 to define a substantially cylindrical
shape. The fastener locking cap 26 is configured to fit inside the
inner bore of the outer receiver 24. The outer surface 62 includes
threads or other interlocking surface 70 configured to engage the
threads or other interlocking surface 48 formed on the inner
surface of the outer receiver 24 in the bone fastener-receiving
location 46. The bottom surface 68 of the fastener locking cap 26
may be curved to conformingly accommodate the spherical or curved
head 34 of the bone fastener 22. As the fastener locking cap 26 is
threaded downwardly into the inner bore of the outer receiver 24,
the bottom surface 68 will engage at least part of the bone
fastener head 34 and force it against the seat or inner surface of
the outer receiver 24 arresting or otherwise locking the bone
fastener 22 in a desired angular position relative to the outer
receiver 24. The fastener locking cap 26 also includes an inner
bore 72 for accessing the driver connection feature 38 formed on
the head 34 of the bone fastener 22. Furthermore, the fastener
locking cap 26 includes two oppositely disposed, prongs 74 that
extend radially outwardly from the outer surface 62. The prongs 74
provide a location to grasp the fastener locking cap 26 with an
instrument or by hand to rotate the fastener locking cap 26 from an
unlocked position in which the bone fastener 22 is free to angulate
with respect to the outer receiver 24 to a locked position in which
the bone fastener 22 is fixed in a desired position relative to the
outer receiver 24. In the locked position, the fastener locking cap
26 bears down upon the head 34 of the bone fastener 22 forcing it
against the outer receiver 24 in the bone fastener receiving
location 46. Of course, the prongs 74 may be any instrument
engaging surface feature including notches or indents extending
inwardly from the outer surface of the fastener locking cap 26.
[0109] With reference to FIG. 4, the inner receiver or inner tulip
28 will now be described in detail. The inner receiver 28 includes
a circular base 76 that is sized and configured for insertion into
the inner bore of the outer receiver 24. The base 76 includes an
outer surface 78 and an inner surface 80 interconnected by a top
surface 82 and a bottom surface 84. A central aperture 86 is
optional and extends through the base 76 for accessing the driver
connection feature 38 in the head 34 of the bone fastener 22 with
an instrument for driving the bone fastener 22 into anatomy. Two
upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 88 extend longitudinally
upwardly from the top surface 82. The arms 88 are curved
circumferential segments, each having an outer surface 90 and an
inner surface 92 with inner threads 94. Two oppositely disposed
substantially U-shaped channels 89 are defined between the arms 88
for receiving an elongate fixation member 32. The outer surface 90
is configured for being received within the smooth surfaces or
recessed portions 58 of the inner surface of the outer receiver 24
in the rod-receiving location 54. The inner surface 92 with threads
94 or interlocking surface 94 is configured for alignment with
threaded or interlocking surface portions 56 of the outer receiver
24 such that when the inner receiver 28 is placed into the recessed
portions 58 the threads or interlocking surface 94 on the inner
receiver 28 align with the threads or interlocking surface 60 on
the outer receiver 24 such that threads or interlocking surface 91
on the outer surface of the rod locking cap 30 engage both sets of
threads or interlocking features 60, 94 simultaneously when
inserted into the outer receiver 24 and between the arms 88 of the
inner receiver 28. Prior to insertion of the rod locking cap 30,
the inner receiver 28 is free to translate longitudinally
vertically with respect to the outer receiver 24. This vertical
translation advantageously permits z-axis positioning of an
elongate fixation member 32 placed within the channels 52 with the
base 76 of the inner receiver 28 vertically supporting the elongate
fixation member 32 and the rod locking cap 30 locking down the
elongate fixation member 32 into position along the longitudinal
axis within the rod receiving location 54.
[0110] With reference back to FIG. 1, the rod locking cap or set
screw 30 is a substantially cylindrical object having an outer
surface 96 interconnected with a top surface 98 and a bottom
surface 99. The outer surface 96 includes threads 91 and is
configured to fit inside the inner receiver 28 and threadingly
engage with the threads 94 on the inner surface 92 of the arms 88
of the inner receiver 28 as well as engage with threads 60 on the
inner surface of the outer receiver 24. The top surface 98 of the
set screw 30 includes a driver receiving connection bore 93 or
socket configured for engaging the tip of a driving instrument for
turning the set screw 30 between a locked position and an unlocked
position. The bottom surface 99 of the set screw 30 may include a
conforming surface that conforms to the outer contour of an
elongate fixation member 32. As the set screw 30 is threadingly
translated downwardly into threaded engagement with the inner bore
of the outer receiver 24 via threads 60 and into threaded
engagement with the inner receiver 28 via threads 94, it will bear
down with force onto the elongate fixation member 32 to lock it
into the desired position. Threaded engagement of the set screw 30
with both the outer receiver 24 and the inner receiver 28
advantageously locks the z-axis vertical position of the inner
receiver 28 relative to the outer receiver 24. It is understood
that threads may be substituted for any mechanical interlocking
surface feature where suitable and appropriate.
[0111] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the elongate fixation
member 32 is a typical spinal fixation rod having a solid
cylindrical shape having a circular cross-section and a length that
spans any number of vertebrae that are desired to be fixed. A short
portion of the elongate fixation member 32 is pictured in the
figures for exemplary purposes only. Although a spinal fixation rod
is pictured, the use of any fixation member having any
cross-section is within the scope of the present invention.
[0112] With reference to FIG. 1, at least one optional spring 95 is
provided between the inner receiver 28 and the fastener locking cap
26. The at least one spring 95 provides a bias force to raise the
inner receiver 28 relative to the fastener locking cap 26 so that
the z-axis position of the inner receiver 28 and hence, the z-axis
position of the elongate fixation member 32 may be more easily
adjusted. Spring receiving areas may be provided to help retain the
at least one spring 95 in position.
[0113] The bone fixation system 20 is assembled by passing the
shank portion 36 of the bone fastener 22 through the proximal
opening 42 and into the distal opening 44 in the outer receiver 24
with the head 34 coming to rest in the seat of the bone fastener
receiving location 46 of the outer receiver 24. An additional
retainer (not shown) may be employed if the distal opening 44 is
too large to retain the head 34 of the bone fastener 22. The
retainer forms an additional seating location for the bone fastener
22 permitting it to be retained inside the outer receiver 24. The
fastener locking cap 26 is inserted into inner bore of the outer
receiver 24 and into the bone fastener receiving location 46 where
the threads 70 of the bone fastener locking cap 26 are engaged with
threads 48 in the bone fastener receiving location 46 in a manner
that permits angulation of the fastener 22 or not as desired. At
least one optional spring 95 is disposed in spring-receiving areas
and the inner receiver 28 is inserted into the inner bore of the
outer receiver 24 such that the arms 88 of the inner receiver 28
slide within the recessed portions 58. An elongate fixation member
32 is located between the arms 88 within the inner receiver 28. The
elongate fixation member 32 is permitted to translate along the
longitudinal z-axis together with the inner receiver 28 being
biased by the at least one spring 95 when in an unlocked position.
When the desired position along the z-axis is ascertained, the rod
locking cap 30 is inserted into the outer receiver 24 and between
the arms 88 of the inner receiver 28 and the threads 91 on the rod
locking cap 30 are threadingly engaged with the threads 94 on the
inner receiver 28 simultaneously with the threads 60 on the outer
receiver 24 to lock the longitudinal translation of the inner
receiver 28 relative to the outer receiver 24. Initial threaded
engagement of the rod-locking cap 30 may be with the inner receiver
28 or outer receiver 24 before simultaneously threading with both.
Continued downward threaded engagement of the rod locking cap 30
results in the rod locking cap 30 bearing down upon the elongate
fixation member 32 locking it into position. At any time, the
fastener locking cap 26 may be turned by grasping the prongs 74
such that the fastener locking cap 26 translates downwardly and
bears down with force onto the head 34 of the bone fastener 22
locking its angulation relative to the outer receiver 24. Prior to
insertion of an elongate fixation member 32, a driver is inserted
into the inner bore of the outer receiver 24, through the central
aperture 86 of the inner receiver 28, through the bore 72 of the
fastener locking cap 26 to engage the driver connection feature 38
in the head 34 of the bone fastener 22. The driver is then turned
to drive the bone fastener 22 into the bone anatomy. With the shank
portion 36 resident in the anatomy, the outer receiver 24 is
permitted to angulate relative to the bone fastener 22 until the
fastener locking cap 26 is turned to a locked position in which it
bears downwardly onto the head 34 of the fastener 22 thereby
arresting the angulation of the outer receiver 24 relative to the
bone fastener 22. The fastener locking cap 26 may be rotated in an
opposite direction to unlock the outer receiver 24 relative to the
bone fastener 22 so that the angulation of the outer receiver 24
may be adjusted and relocked as desired. This may be repeated as
needed FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 9A, 9B show the elongate
fixation member 32 locked into a relatively high position along the
z-axis or longitudinal axis within the outer receiver 24. In
comparison, FIGS. 8A, 8B, illustrate the bone fixation system 20
with the elongate fixation member 32 locked into a relatively low
position along the z-axis within the outer receiver 24. The
relative z-axis translation range is advantageously approximately
10 mm on a standard sized outer tulip 24. Of course, the range may
be greater if a larger outer tulip 24 with a longer inner bore is
provided or, alternatively, in another variation of the invention,
multiple inner receivers are configured to telescope relative to
each other to achieve a larger range of translation along the
z-axis. The multiple inner receivers are nested within each other
to create the telescoping effect. The arms 50 with the smooth
surfaces 54 permit the inner receiver 24 and attached fastener
locking cap 26 to telescope freely vertically within the bore of
the outer receiver 24. A driver instrument may then be inserted
into the proximal opening 40 of the bore of the outer receiver 24
and through the central aperture 80 of the inner receiver 28 and
through the bore 66 of the fastener locking cap 26 and into the
driver connection feature in the bone fastener head 34. The user
may then rotate the driver to drive the bone fastener 22 into the
anatomy. With the shank portion 36 delivered into bone, the outer
receiver 24 is permitted to angulate with respect to the bone
fastener 22. An elongate fixation member 32 is then placed into the
channel 48 and between the arms 88 of the inner receiver 28. Since
the inner receiver 28 is advantageously free to translate
longitudinally within the bore of the outer receiver 24, in
particular, free to translate longitudinally within the
rod-receiving location of the outer receiver 24, substantial z-axis
translation is afforded for precisely locating the elongate
fixation member 32 in the desired location custom to the anatomy. A
set screw 30 is placed into the inner receiver 28 such that its
threads 96 engage the threads 94 of the inner surface 92 of the
arms 88. A driver instrument is employed to turn the set screw 30
translating it longitudinally downwardly onto the elongate fixation
member 32. Throughout this time, the elongate fixation member 32
and angle of the outer receiver 24 may be precisely determined and
the set screw 30 incrementally advanced downward to zero in on the
precise orientation of these components.
[0114] Turning now to FIG. 10, there is shown another bone fixation
system 100 according to the present invention. The bone fixation
system 100 includes a bone fastener 102, an outer receiver or outer
tulip 104, a fastener locking cap 106, an inner receiver or inner
tulip 108, a rod locking cap or set screw 110, an elongate fixation
member 112 and an optional cover 114.
[0115] The bone fastener 102 is configured to engage the anatomy to
couple the bone fixation system 100 to the anatomy. The bone
fastener 102 includes a head 116 at a proximal end and an elongate
threaded shank portion 118 extending between the head 116 and a
distal end along a longitudinal axis. The bone fastener 102 is
configured as a typical bone screw; however, the invention is not
so limited and any fastener or other-shaped anchor may be employed.
The bone fastener 102 may be a self-tapping bone screw having at
least one cutting flute. Alternatively, a bone screw that requires
a hole to be pre-tapped prior to insertion may be employed. The
head 116 can be generally arcuate having a curved or bulbous outer
surface and may be spherical or partially spherical in shape. The
head 116 can include a driver connection feature 119 at the
proximal end for mating with any type of driver such as a hex tool
having a hexagonal distal tip to enable the application of torque
to drive the bone fastener 102 into the anatomy.
[0116] Turning now to FIG. 11A, the outer receiver or outer tulip
104 will now be described in detail. The outer receiver 104
includes a sidewall 120 having an outer surface and an inner
surface. The sidewall 120 forms a proximal opening 122 at the
proximal end leading into a substantially cylindrical inner bore
that extends to a distal opening 124 at the distal end of the outer
receiver 104. The distal opening 124 is configured for receiving at
least a part of the shank portion 118 and/or head 116 of the bone
fastener 102. The inner surface of the outer receiver 104 at the
distal end defines a bone fastener-receiving location 126. The
inner surface of the outer receiver 104 in the bone
fastener-receiving location 126 is contoured to form a conforming
seat for the bone fastener 102 such that when the bone fastener 102
is inserted into the distal opening 124, the bone fastener 102 may
freely pivot and angulate polyaxially unimpeded relative to the
outer receiver 104 as well as rotate about the longitudinal axis of
the shank portion 118. The inner surface of the outer receiver 104
in the bone fastener-receiving location 126 includes threads or
other interlocking surface feature 128 configured for engagement
with threads or interlocking surface feature on the outer surface
of the fastener locking cap 106.
[0117] The sidewall 120 of the outer receiver 104 forms two
upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 130. The arms 130 are spaced
apart from each other to define two oppositely disposed channels
132 formed in the sidewall 120. The channels 132 comprise two
oppositely disposed, substantially U-shaped spaces that
interconnect with the proximal opening 122 and the inner bore of
the outer receiver 104. The channels 132 are shaped to receive an
elongate fixation member 112 such as a spinal fixation rod or other
elgonate member to be connected to the outer receiver 104 by
placement of the elongate fixation member 112 into the channels
132. The outer receiver 104 includes a rod-receiving location 134.
The rod-receiving location 134 of the outer receiver 104 is
substantially in the location of the two arms 130 and the inner
surface of the arms 132 define two oppositely disposed smooth
surfaces such that the inner receiver 108 which fits within the
arms 130 of the outer receiver 104 may unimpededly translate
longitudinally along the z-axis. The arms 130 extend upwardly from
the bone fastener receiving location 126 such that the outer
surface of the arms 130 is set back from the outer surface of the
bone fastener receiving location 126 to create a circumferential
ledge surrounding the arms 130. The outer surface of each of the
arms 130 includes a smooth surface 136 extending longitudinally
that is adjacent to a threaded or interlocking outer surface 138
extending longitudinal along the outer surface of each arm 130. The
threaded surface 138 on the outer surface of one arm 130 is
oppositely disposed from a threaded surface 138 on the outer
surface of the second arm 130. Also, the smooth surface 136 on the
outer surface of one arm 130 is oppositely disposed from the smooth
surface 136 located on the outer surface of the second arm 130. The
outer surface of the outer receiver 104 may include two small holes
(not shown) oppositely disposed in the arms 130 for permitting a
reduction instrument or other instrument to grasp onto the outer
receiver 104.
[0118] Turning now to FIG. 11B, the fastener locking cap 106 will
now be described. The fastener locking cap 106 includes an outer
surface 140 and an inner surface 141 interconnected by a top
surface 142 and a bottom surface 143 to define a substantially
cylindrical shape. The fastener locking cap 106 is configured to
fit inside the inner bore of the outer receiver 104. The outer
surface 140 includes threads/interlocking features 144 configured
to engage the threads or other interlocking surface features 128
formed on the inner surface of the outer receiver 104 in the bone
fastener-receiving location 126. The bottom surface 143 of the
fastener locking cap 106 may be curved to conformingly accommodate
the spherical or curved head 116 of the bone fastener 102. As the
fastener locking cap 106 is threaded downwardly into the inner bore
of the outer receiver 104, the bottom surface 143 will engage at
least part of the bone fastener head 116 and force it against the
seat or inner surface of the outer receiver 104 arresting or
otherwise locking the bone fastener 102 in a desired angular
position relative to the outer receiver 104. The fastener locking
cap 106 also includes an inner bore 145 for accessing the driver
connection feature 119 formed on the head 116 of the bone fastener
102. The inner bore 145 may not only serve as a through-hole for
accessing the driver connection feature 119 on the bone fastener
102 for driving the bone fastener 102 into bone, but also, the
inner bore 145 may be shaped for accepting a tool for driving the
fastener locking cap 106 itself. As such, the inner bore 145 may be
hexagonal in shape for receiving a hexagonal-shaped tip of a driver
instrument. The driver instrument is configured to rotate the
fastener locking cap 106 from an unlocked position in which the
bone fastener 102 is free to angulate with respect to the outer
receiver 104 to a locked position in which the bone fastener 102 is
fixed in a desired position relative to the outer receiver 104. In
the locked position, the fastener locking cap 106 bears down upon
the head 116 of the bone fastener 102 forcing it against the outer
receiver 104 in the bone fastener receiving location 126.
[0119] With reference to FIG. 12, the inner receiver or inner tulip
108 will now be described in detail. The inner receiver 108
includes a circular base 148 that is sized and configured for
insertion into the inner bore of the outer receiver 104. In
particular, the inner receiver 108 is sized and configured for
being received between the arms 130 of the outer receiver 104. The
base 148 includes an outer surface and an inner surface
interconnected by a top surface and a bottom surface. A central
aperture extends through the base 148 for accessing the driver
connection feature 119 in the head 116 of the bone fastener 102
with an instrument for driving the bone fastener 102 into anatomy.
Two upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 156 extend longitudinally
upwardly from the top surface 152. The arms 156 are curved
circumferential segments, each having an outer surface 158 and an
inner surface 159 with inner threads 160. At least one channel 162
is defined between the arms 156 for receiving an elongate fixation
member 112. The outer surface 158 of the each arm 156 is configured
for being received within the smooth inner surface of the outer
receiver 104 in the rod-receiving location 134. The inner surface
159 with threads 160 is configured for threaded engagement with
threads of the rod-locking cap or set screw 110. The base 148
serves as a support or floor for the elongate fixation member 112
placed within the channels 162 of the inner receiver 108. With the
inner receiver 108 disposed between the arms 130 of the outer
receiver 104, the inner receiver 108 is free to translate
longitudinally relative to the outer receiver 104.
[0120] Turning now to FIG. 13, the rod-locking cap or set screw 110
will now be described. The set screw 110 includes a top surface 164
and a bottom surface 165 interconnected by an outer surface 166 and
an inner surface 167. The inner surface 167 defines a central
aperture 168. Two oppositely disposed legs 170 extend outwardly
from the outer surface 166 and downwardly. The inner surface of the
legs 170 includes threads 172 or interlocking features that are
configured for engaging with the threads 138 or other interlocking
features of the outer surface of the arms 130 of the outer receiver
104. The set screw 110 further includes slots 174 configured to
engage a tool for rotating the legs 170 from an unlocked position
to a locked position relative to the outer receiver 104. The set
screw 110 further includes a cylinder 176 coupled to the bottom
surface 153. The cylinder 176 includes threads 177 or other
interlocking features on its outer surface and is configured to
rotate independently of the remainder of the set screw 110 such as
the legs 179 and surfaces 164, 165, 166, 167. The top surface of
the cylinder 176 includes a tool receiving feature 178 such as a
hexagonal socket for receiving a hexagonally shaped driving tool
for rotating the cylinder 176.
[0121] Turning now to FIG. 14, the cover 114 will now be described.
The cover 114 includes a circular top 180 with a plurality of
downwardly extending legs 182. The top 180 includes a central
aperture 184 and two oppositely disposed slots 186. The central
aperture 184 provides access to the driver connection feature 119
on the bone fastener 102 or the tool receiving feature 178 for
rotating the threaded cylinder 176. The oppositely disposed slots
186 provide access to the slots 174 on the set screw 110 for
rotating the set screw 110 to lock the inner receiver 108 to the
outer receiver 104.
[0122] The bone fixation system 100 is assembled by inserted the
bone fastener 102 into the distal opening 124 of the outer receiver
104. A fastener locking cap 106 is inserted into the inner bore of
the outer receiver 104 an into the bone fastener receiving location
126 where the threads 144 on the fastener locking cap 106 are
engaged with threads 128 in the bone fastener receiving location.
The bone fastener 102 is free to angulate polyaxially relative to
the outer receiver 104 in an unlocked position. In a locked
position, the fastener locking cap 106 is threaded or turned
downwardly to bear upon the head 116 of the bone fastener 102 to
lock it into a desired angular relationship. The inner receiver 108
is inserted into the inner bore of the outer receiver 108 such that
the arms 156 of the inner receiver 108 are substantially aligned
inside the arms 130 of the outer receiver 104. The channels 132 of
the outer receiver 104 are also substantially aligned with the
channels 162 of the inner receiver 108. The outer surface of the
inner receiver 108 is substantially flush with the inner surface of
the outer receiver 104 and the inner receiver 108 is free to
translate longitudinally along the z-axis inside the outer receiver
104. Prior to the placement of an elongate fixation member 112 into
the channels 132, 162, the angular relationship of the outer
receiver 104 relative to the bone fastener 102 is fixed or
otherwise locked into position by employing a driving tool inserted
through the central aperture 154 of the inner receiver 108 to
engage the inner bore 145 of the fastener locking cap 106 and
rotate it into a locked position. When an elongate fixation member
112 is placed into the channels 132, 162, the elongate fixation
member 112 rests on the top surface 152 of the inner receiver 108
and the z-axis or longitudinal position of the elongate fixation
member may be adjusted moving both the elongate fixation member and
inner receiver into the desired position. The set screw 110 is
positioned such that the threaded cylinder 176 is inserted into the
inner receiver 108 between the arms 156 of the inner receiver 108.
The legs 170 of the set screw 110 slide on the outside of the arms
130 of the outer receiver 104 such that the inner surface of the
legs 170 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the arms
130 of the outer receiver 104. With the legs 170 in the location of
smooth surfaces 136 of the arms 130, the inner receiver 108 is free
to translate relative to the outer receiver 104. FIGS. 15A and 15B
illustrate the elongate fixation member 112 in a relatively low
position along the z-axis, that is, the elongate fixation member
112 is in a position proximal to the bone fastener 112 or distal
end of the outer receiver 104. In FIGS. 16A and 16B, the elongate
fixation member 112 is shown in a relatively high position along
the longitudinal, z-axis. The threaded cylinder 176 may be threaded
to the inner receiver 108 to connect the set screw 110 to the inner
receiver 108. The threaded cylinder 176 may be rotated with a tool
engaged with the tool receiving feature 178 from an unlocked
position in which the elongate fixation member 112 is free to move
within the channels 162 to a locked position in which the threaded
cylinder 176 is rotatingly threaded downwardly to bear against the
elongate fixation member 112 locking it into position. In the
locked position, the inner receiver 108, the elongate fixation
member 112 and the set screw 110 together form substantially a
unitary body that is capable of longitudinal translation relative
to the outer receiver 104. In essence, there is a first locked
position that locks the angulation of the bone fastener 102
relative to the outer receiver 104, a second locked position in
which the set screw 110 locks down to fix the elongate fixation
member 112 relative to the inner receiver 108 and a third locked
position in which the longitudinal z-axis translation of the inner
receiver 108 is locked with respect to the outer receiver 104. This
third locked position is accomplished by inserting a driving tool
into slots 174 on the set screw 110. The tool is then used to
rotate the set screw 110 such that the legs 170 of the set screw
110 rotate along the outer surface of the arms 130 of the outer
receiver 104 from being adjacent to the smooth surfaces 136
representing an unlocked position as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B to
a locked position in which the threads 172 on the inner surface of
the legs 170 engage the threads 138 on the outer surfaces of the
arms 130 as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B.
[0123] Turning now to FIG. 19, another variation of the bone
fixation system 200 will now be described. The bone fixation system
200 of the present invention includes a bone fastener 202, an outer
receiver or outer tulip 204 coupled to the bone fastener 202, a
fastener locking cap 206 interconnected with an inner receiver or
inner tulip 208, and a rod locking cap or set screw 210. The bone
fixation system 200 may also include an elongate fixation member or
connecting rod 212 and at least one spring 213 disposed between the
fastener locking cap 206 and inner receiver 208. It should be
noted, however, that although the bone fixation system 200 is
generally illustrated and described as a single assembly for use
with a single connecting rod 212, any combination of bone fixation
systems 200 and connecting rods 212 can be employed during a
surgical procedure. For example, in a single level spinal fixation
procedure, two bone fixation systems 200 can receive a single
connecting rod 212 along one side of the spine and two bone
fixation systems 200 can receive another connecting rod 212 along
the opposite side of the spine. A multiple level spinal fixation
procedure, however, will generally require additional bone fixation
systems 200. In addition, the bone fixation systems 200 need not be
coupled to adjacent vertebral bodies, but rather, the bone fixation
systems 200 can be positioned so as to skip adjacent vertebral
bodies if desired. The bone fixation system 200 can be composed of
any suitable material, such as titanium, stainless steel, metal,
metal alloys, polymers, synthetic polymers such as polyether ether
ketone (PEEK), plastics or any other sufficiently rigid and strong
material which is biologically compatible and can maintain its
strength in vivo for at least six months. The various components of
the bone fixation system 200 can be made of materials that are
different from the other components of the system 200.
[0124] Still referencing FIG. 19, the bone fastener 202 is
configured to engage the anatomy to couple the bone fixation system
200 to the anatomy. The bone fastener 202 includes a head 214 at a
proximal end and an elongate threaded shank portion 216 extending
between the head 214 and a distal end along a longitudinal axis.
The bone fastener 202 is configured as a typical bone screw;
however, the invention is not so limited and any fastener or
other-shaped anchor may be employed. The bone fastener 202 may be a
self-tapping bone screw having at least one cutting flute.
Alternatively, the bone screw may require a hole to be pre-tapped
prior to insertion. The head 214 can be generally arcuate having a
curved or bulbous outer surface and may be spherical or partially
spherical in shape. The head 214 can include a driver connection
feature 218 or socket at the proximal end for mating with any type
of driver such as a driver with a hexagonal-shaped tip to enable
the application of torque to drive the bone fastener 202 into the
anatomy.
[0125] Turning now to FIG. 20, the outer receiver or outer tulip
204 will now be described in detail. The outer receiver 204
includes a sidewall 219 having an outer surface and an inner
surface. The sidewall 219 forms a proximal opening 220 at the
proximal end leading into a substantially cylindrical bore that
extends to a distal opening 222 at the distal end of the outer
receiver 204. The distal opening 222 is configured for receiving at
least a part of the shank portion 216 and/or bone fastener head 214
of the bone fastener 202. The inner surface of the outer receiver
204 at the distal end defines a bone fastener-receiving location
224. The inner surface of the outer receiver 204 in the bone
fastener-receiving location 224 is contoured to form a conforming
seat for the bone fastener head 214 such that when the bone
fastener 202 is inserted into the distal opening 222, the bone
fastener 202 may freely pivot and angulate polyaxially unimpeded
relative to the outer receiver 204 as well as rotate about the
longitudinal axis of the shank portion 216. The inner surface of
the outer receiver 204 in the bone fastener-receiving location 224
includes threads or other interlocking surface feature 225
configured for engagement with threads or other interlocking
surface feature on the outer surface of the fastener locking cap
206.
[0126] Still referencing FIG. 20, the sidewall 219 of the outer
receiver 204 forms two upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 226.
The two arms 226 are spaced apart from each other to define at
least one channel 228 formed in the sidewall 219. The channels 228
comprise two oppositely disposed, substantially U-shaped spaces
that interconnect with the proximal opening 220 and the inner bore
of the outer receiver 204. Each channel 228 is shaped to receive an
elongate fixation member 212 such as a spinal fixation rod or other
elgonate member to be connected to the outer receiver 204 by
placement of the rod 212 into the channels 228. The outer receiver
204 includes a rod-receiving location 230 along at least part of
the longitudinal length of the outer receiver 204. In the
rod-receiving location 230 of the outer receiver 204, the inner
surface defines at least two oppositely disposed threaded portions
232 having threads 233 or other interlocking surface features.
These threaded portions 232 extend longitudinally vertically in the
rod-receiving location 230 and are configured to threadingly engage
threads formed on the outer surface of the inner receiver 208.
Adjacent to the threaded portions 232 are two oppositely disposed
smooth surfaces 234 that also run longitudinally vertically in the
rod-receiving location 230. The smooth surfaces 234 provide a
channel for unimpeded longitudinal/vertical translation of the
inner receiver 208 relative to the outer receiver 204 when disposed
therein. The smooth surfaces 234 may appear as vertical notches or
recessed portions formed into the inner surface of the outer
receiver 204. Hence, the inner surface of the outer receiver 204
includes both recessed regions 234 and non-recessed regions 232.
The non-recessed regions 232 include threads 233 or other
interlocking surface features. The recessed regions 234 are
recessed with respect to the non-recessed regions 232. The recessed
regions 234 are smooth surfaces that extend longitudinally
vertically adjacent to the longitudinally extending non-recessed
threaded regions 232 in the rod receiving location 230. The
recessed regions 234 are configured to receive the arms of the
inner receiver 208 such that the inner receiver 208 may translate
vertically relative to the outer receiver 204 within the recessed
regions 234. With the inner receiver 208 positioned within the
recessed regions 234, the inner surface of the arms of the inner
receiver 208 are flush with the non-recessed regions 232 of the
inner surface of the outer receiver 204. In one variation, the
recessed region 234 includes a first recessed region 278 and a
second recessed region 280. The second recessed region 280 is
deeper relative to the first recessed region 278, that is, the
second recessed region extends radially outwardly from the inner
surface of the arms 226 beyond the first recessed region 278
providing for a recessed region 234 wherein at least a portion of
the recessed region 234 has a greater depth relative to the first
recessed region 278 as seen in FIG. 20. The second recessed region
280 is sized and configured to receive larger tabs 244 formed on
the fastener locking cap 206 as shown in FIG. 21. The larger tabs
244 are thicker and extend beyond the outer wall of the inner
receiver. The first recessed region 278 is sized and configured to
receive the inner receiver 208. The larger tabs 244 are radially
thicker and, hence, the recessed region 234 is correspondingly
sized to accommodate the thicker tabs 244. The tabs 244 are
inserted into the longitudinal notches 260 of the inner receiver
208 to couple the fastener locking cap 206 to the inner receiver
208. The two notches 260 on the inner receiver 208 are located
circumferentially opposite from each other and such that the inner
receiver 208 may still be rotated from being adjacent or in
juxtaposition to the smooth recessed regions 234 in an unlocked
position to being adjacent or in juxtaposition to the threaded,
non-recessed regions 232 in a locked position without the thicker
tabs 244 coming into rotational interference with the intersection
of the recessed and non-recessed regions 234, 232. FIGS. 33A, 33B
and 34 illustrate the variation with a single recessed region 280.
The outer surface of the outer receiver 204 may include two small
holes 235 oppositely disposed in the arms 226 for permitting a
reduction instrument or other instrument to grasp onto the receiver
204.
[0127] Turning now to FIG. 21, the fastener locking cap 206 will
now be described. The fastener locking cap 206 includes an outer
surface 236 and an inner surface 237 interconnected by a top
surface 238 and a bottom surface 239 to define a substantially
cylindrical shape. The fastener locking cap 206 is configured to
fit inside the inner bore of the outer receiver 204. The outer
surface 236 includes threads 240 or other interlocking surface
feature configured to engage the threads or other interlocking
surface feature 225 formed on the inner surface of the outer
receiver 204 in the bone fastener-receiving location 224. The
bottom surface 239 of the fastener locking cap 206 may be curved to
conformingly accommodate the spherical or curved head of the bone
screw head 214. As the fastener locking cap 206 is threaded
downwardly into the inner bore of the outer receiver 204, the
bottom surface 239 will engage at least part of the bone screw head
214 and force it against the seat or inner surface of the outer
receiver 204 arresting or otherwise locking the bone fastener 202
in a desired angular position relative to the outer receiver 204.
The fastener locking cap 206 also includes an inner bore 242 for
accessing the driver connection feature 218 formed on the bone
screw head 214. Further, the fastener locking cap 206 includes two
oppositely disposed, upstanding tabs 244 that extend longitudinally
upwardly from the fastener locking cap 206. The tabs 244 are narrow
beams having curved outer surfaces that conform to the curved inner
surface of the outer receiver 204.
[0128] With reference to FIG. 22, the inner receiver or inner tulip
208 will now be described in detail. The inner receiver 208
includes a circular base 246 and is sized and configured for
insertion into the inner bore of the outer receiver 204. The base
246 includes an outer surface 248 and an inner surface 249
interconnected by a top surface 250 and a bottom surface 251. A
central aperture 252 extends through the base 246 for accessing the
driver connection feature 218 in the bone screw head 214 with an
instrument for driving the bone fastener 202 into anatomy. Two
upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 254 extend longitudinally
upwardly from the top surface 250. The arms 254 are curved
circumferential segments having a threaded outer surface 256 and a
threaded inner surface 258. The threaded outer surface 256 is
configured for threadingly engaging with the threaded portions 232
of the rod-receiving location 230 and the threaded inner surface
258 is configured for threadingly engaging with the threads on the
set screw 210 as will be described in greater detail below. Of
course, other interlocking surface features in lieu of threads may
be employed. The outer surface 256 of each of the arms 254 includes
a longitudinal notch 260 or tab engaging feature 260 that is sized
and configured to receive or engage with the fastener locking cap
tabs 244. The fastener locking cap 206 is interconnected with the
inner receiver 208 by aligning the tabs 244 of the fastener locking
cap 206 with the notches 260 of the inner receiver 208 and sliding
the inner receiver 208 relative to the fastener locking cap 206 by
any desired distance. Two oppositely disposed, substantially
U-shaped channels 261 are defined between the arms 254 for
receiving an elongate fixation member 212.
[0129] Referring back to FIG. 19, the set screw 210 is a
substantially cylindrical object having an outer surface 262
interconnected with a top surface 263 and a bottom surface 264. The
outer surface 262 includes threads 266 and is configured to fit
inside the inner receiver 208 and threadingly engage with the
threaded inner surface 258 of the inner receiver 208. Of course,
other interlocking surface features in lieu of threads may be
employed. The top surface 263 of the set screw 210 includes a
driver-receiving connection or socket 268 configured for engaging
the tip of a driving instrument for turning the set screw 210 into
a lock position or unlock position. The bottom surface 264 of the
set screw 210 may include a conforming surface that conforms to the
outer contour of an elongate fixation member 212. As the set screw
210 is threadingly translated into threaded engagement with the
inner receiver 208, it will bear down with force onto the elongate
fixation member 212 to lock it into the desired position.
[0130] Still referencing FIG. 19, the elongate fixation member 212
is a typical spinal fixation rod having a solid cylindrical shape
having a circular cross-section and a length that spans any number
of vertebrae that are desired to be fixed. Only a short portion of
the elongate fixation member 212 is pictured in FIG. 19 for
exemplary purposes only. Although a spinal fixation rod is
pictured, the use of any fixation member having any cross-section
is within the scope of the present invention.
[0131] Still referring to FIG. 19, at least one optional spring 213
is provided between the inner receiver 208 and the fastener locking
cap 206. Two springs 213 are shown in FIG. 19. The at least one
spring 213 provides a bias force to raise the inner receiver 208
relative to the fastener locking cap 206 so that the z-axis
position of the inner receiver 208, and hence, the z-axis position
of the elongate fixation member 212 may be more easily adjusted.
Spring-receiving areas may also be provided to help retain the at
least one spring 213 in position.
[0132] In use, the bone fixation system 200 is assembled by passing
the shank portion 216 of the bone fastener 202 through the proximal
opening 220 and into the distal opening 222 in the outer receiver
204 with the bone screw head 214 coming to rest in the seat of the
bone fastener receiving location 224 of the outer receiver 204. An
additional retainer (not shown) may be employed if the distal
opening 222 is too large to retain the bone fastener head 214. The
retainer forms an additional seating location for the bone fastener
head 214 permitting it to be retained inside the outer receiver
204. The fastener locking cap 206 is coupled to the inner receiver
208 by sliding the tabs 244 into the notches 260 of the inner
receiver 208. Both the fastener locking cap 206 and the inner
receiver 208 are inserted into the inner bore of the outer receiver
204 such that the arms 254 of the inner receiver 208 are aligned
with the smooth surfaces 234 of the outer receiver 204 so that
inner receiver 208 and connected fastener locking cap 206 may
telescope freely vertically within the inner bore of the outer
receiver 204 for adjusting the height of the inner receiver 208,
and hence, the height of the elongate fixation member 212 relative
to the outer receiver 204. A driver instrument may then be inserted
into the proximal opening 220 of the inner bore of the outer
receiver 204 and through the central aperture 252 of the inner
receiver 208 and through the bore 242 of the fastener locking cap
206 and into the driver connection feature 218 in the bone fastener
head 214. The user may then rotate the driver to drive the bone
fastener 202 into the anatomy. With the shank portion 216 delivered
into bony anatomy, the outer receiver 204 is permitted to angulate
with respect to the bone fastener 202. An elongate fixation member
212 is then placed into the channels 228, 261 and between the arms
254 of the inner receiver 208. A set screw 210 is placed into the
inner receiver 208 such that its threads 266 engage the threads of
the inner surface 258 of the arms 254. The set screw 210 is only
slightly advanced into the inner receiver 208 such that the inner
receiver 208 may still translate longitudinally relative to the
outer receiver 204. Since the inner receiver 208 is advantageously
free to translate longitudinally within the inner bore of the outer
receiver 204, in particular, free to translate longitudinally
within the rod-receiving location of the outer receiver 204,
substantial z-axis translation is afforded for precisely locating
the elongate fixation member 212 in the desired location custom to
the anatomy. FIG. 23 illustrates the elongate fixation member 212
in a relatively low position along the z-axis, that is, the
elongate fixation member 212 is in a position proximal to the head
214 of the bone fastener 202. The inner receiver 208 is also in a
relatively low position along the z-axis in which the inner
receiver 208 is proximal to the head 214 of the bone fastener 202.
FIG. 23 illustrates the inner receiver 208 in an unlocked position
relative to the outer receiver 204 as the arms 254 of the inner
receiver 208 are adjacent to the smooth surfaces or recessed
regions 234 of the outer receiver 204. FIG. 24 illustrates the
elongate fixation member 212 in a relatively high position along
the z-axis, that is, the elongate fixation member 212 is in a
position most distal from the head 214 of the bone fastener 202.
The inner receiver 208 is also in a relatively high position
together with the elongate fixation member 212 along the z-axis in
which the inner receiver 208 is distal to the head 214 of the bone
fastener 202. FIG. 24 illustrates the inner receiver 208 in an
unlocked position relative to the outer receiver 204 as the arms
254 of the inner receiver 208 are adjacent to the smooth surfaces
or recessed regions 234 of the outer receiver 204. In the unlocked
position, the inner receiver 208, which forms a seat for the
elongated fixation member 212, together with the elongate fixation
member 212 are free to translate longitudinally and the
longitudinal, z-axis translation may be adjusted as desired until
the desired position is achieved and locked in place.
[0133] With the set screw 210 in position within the inner receiver
208, a driver instrument 272 of the type depicted in FIG. 25 is
employed to turn the set screw 210. The driver instrument 272
includes a handle 271 at the proximal end and a distal tip 273
configured to engage the socket 268 on the set screw 210 as shown
in FIG. 26. The driver instrument 272 rotates the set screw 210
translating it longitudinally downwardly onto the elongate fixation
member 212. Throughout this time, the position of the elongate
fixation member 212 along the z-axis and in the cephalad-caudal
direction may be incrementally adjusted together with the angle of
the outer receiver 204 relative to the bone fastener 202. The set
screw 210 is advanced downwardly to precisely lock the desired
position of these components. When downward force is exerted onto
the elongate fixation member 212 with continued threaded
advancement of the set screw 210, the elongate fixation member 212
will bear down with force against the circular base 246 of the
inner receiver 208. Also, the z-axis translation of the elongate
fixation member 212 relative to the inner receiver will be
substantially arrested. With continued rotation of the set screw
210 with the driver instrument 272, the angular moment of the set
screw 210 will also turn the inner receiver 208 relative to the
outer receiver 204 such that the arms 254 of the inner receiver 208
move from being in contact with or adjacent to the smooth surfaces
or recessed regions 234 shown in FIG. 27 and into threaded
engagement with the threaded portions or non-recessed regions 232
of the outer receiver 204 in the rod-receiving location 230 as
shown in FIG. 28. Such rotation of the inner receiver 208 relative
to the outer receiver 204 will result in locking or arresting the
z-axis, or vertical or longitudinal position of the elongate
fixation member 212 relative to the outer receiver 204. Of course,
reverse rotation of the set screw 210 will unlock the z-axis
position of the inner receiver 208 and elongate fixation member 212
so that it can be conveniently readjusted and repositioned as
needed. Simultaneously the relative rotation of the inner receiver
208 will also rotate the connected fastener locking cap 206 within
the threads 240 of the bone fastener receiving location 224
resulting in the locking down and setting of the angular
orientation of the outer receiver 204 relative to the bone fastener
202. Hence, the present invention permits the set screw 210 to be
used to lock down simultaneously not only the exact position of the
elongate fixation member 212 relative to the outer receiver 204 in
at least the longitudinal direction, but also, the angulation of
the outer receiver 204 relative to the bone fastener 202.
Furthermore, the fastener locking cap 206 is movable relative to
the inner receiver 208 which advantageously allows the distance
between the inner receiver 208 and the fastener locking cap 206 to
be adjusted. This adjustment of the distance between the inner
receiver 208 and the fastener locking cap 206 is assisted by the
presence of the at least one spring 213 located between the inner
receiver 208 and the fastener locking cap 206 which biases these
two elements apart.
[0134] Furthermore, the inner receiver 208 may include a notch 270
formed in each arm 254 that extends radially from the inner surface
258 of the arms 254. The at least one notch 270 is clearly shown in
FIG. 22. Alternatively, the at least one notch 270 may be formed in
the top surface of each arm 254. The notches 270 are sized and
configured for receiving a tool 274 shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B for
rotating the inner receiver 208 relative to the outer receiver 204
independently of the set screw 210, that is the inner receiver 208
may be rotated relative to the outer receiver 204 at any time
without the use of a set screw 210 or prior to the insertion of a
set screw 210 in order to lock down the z-axis distance of the
elongate fixation member 212 and inner receiver 208 relative to the
outer receiver 204. FIG. 31B illustrates the driving tool 274
engaging the inner receiver 208 in an unlocked position and FIG.
32B illustrates the driving tool 274 engaging the inner receiver
208 in a locked position in the absence of a set screw 210.
[0135] FIGS. 29A and 29B illustrate the tool 274 having a handle
275 at the proximal end and distal tip having two oppositely
disposed prongs 276 that are configured for engaging the oppositely
disposed notches 270 of the inner receiver 208 to rotate the inner
receiver 208 independently of the set screw 210. The tool 274 may
include a central lumen 277 extending longitudinally within the
tool 274 between an opening at the proximal end and an opening at
the distal end. FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrates the tool 274 above
the bone fixation system 200 with the distal prongs 276
substantially aligned with the notches 270. FIG. 31A illustrates
the tool 274 with prongs 276 inserted into the notches 270 with the
inner receiver 208 in an unlocked position and FIG. 32A illustrates
the tool 274 with prongs 276 inserted into the notches 270 and the
inner receiver 208 rotated into a locked position in which the arms
254 of the inner receiver 208 are engaging the threaded portions
232 of the outer receiver 204.
[0136] Turning now to FIG. 33A, an alternative outer receiver or
outer tulip 204 for use with the bone fixation system 200 is shown.
The outer receiver 204 includes all of the same features as
described above wherein like reference numbers are used to describe
like parts. In the variation of FIG. 33A, the recessed region 234
of the outer receiver 204 includes a single recessed region 280
that accommodates the relatively narrower tabs 244 of the bone
fastener lock 206 of FIG. 33B. The assembly of FIG. 34 shows the
outer receiver 204 with a single recessed region 280 in an unlocked
position relative to the inner receiver 208.
[0137] When downward force is exerted onto the elongate fixation
member 212, with continued threaded advancement of the set screw
210, z-axis translation will be substantially arrested, as the
angular moment or torque of the set screw 210 will turn the inner
receiver 208 such that its arms 254 move from the smooth surfaces
234 and into threaded engagement with the threaded portions 232 of
the rod-receiving location. Such rotation of the inner receiver 208
relative to the outer receiver 204 will result in locking the
z-axis, or vertical or longitudinal position of the elongate
fixation member 212 relative to the outer receiver 204.
Simultaneously the relative rotation of the inner receiver 208 will
also rotate the connected fastener locking cap 206 within the
threads 225 of the bone fastener receiving location 224 resulting
in the locking down and setting of orientation/angulation of the
outer receiver 204 relative to the bone fastener 202. Hence, the
present invention permits the set screw 210 to be used to lock down
not only the exact position of the rod, but also, the angulation of
the outer receiver 204 relative to the bone fastener 202.
Furthermore, the fastener locking cap 206 is movable relative to
the inner receiver 208 which advantageously allows the distance
between the inner receiver 208 and the fastener locking cap 206 to
be adjusted. The inner receiver 208 may include a notch 270 formed
in the arms 254 such as the top surface of the arms 254 for
receiving a tool for rotating the inner receiver 208 relative to
the outer receiver 204 without the use of a set screw 210 or prior
to the insertion of a set screw 210 to lock down the z-axis
distance of the elongate fixation member 212 relative to the outer
receiver 204.
[0138] Turning now to FIG. 35, another variation of the bone
fixation system 300 will now be described. The bone fixation system
300 of the present invention includes a bone fastener 302, an outer
receiver or outer tulip 304 coupled to the bone fastener 302, a
fastener locking cap 306 interconnected with an inner receiver or
inner tulip 308, and a rod locking cap or set screw 310. The bone
fixation system 300 may also include an elongate fixation member or
connecting rod 312 and at least one spring 313 disposed between the
fastener locking cap 306 and inner receiver 308. It should be
noted, however, that although the bone fixation system 300 is
generally illustrated and described as a single assembly for use
with a single connecting rod 312, any combination of bone fixation
systems 300 and connecting rods 312 can be employed during a
surgical procedure. For example, in a single level spinal fixation
procedure, two bone fixation systems 300 can receive a single
connecting rod 312 along one side of the spine and two bone
fixation systems 300 can receive another connecting rod 312 along
the opposite side of the spine. A multiple level spinal fixation
procedure, however, will generally require additional bone fixation
systems 300. In addition, the bone fixation systems 300 need not be
coupled to adjacent vertebral bodies, but rather, the bone fixation
systems 300 can be positioned so as to skip adjacent vertebral
bodies if desired. The bone fixation system 300 can be composed of
any suitable material, such as titanium, stainless steel, metal,
metal alloys, polymers, synthetic polymers such as polyether ether
ketone (PEEK), plastics or any other sufficiently rigid and strong
material which is biologically compatible and can maintain its
strength in vivo for at least six months. The various components of
the bone fixation system 300 can be made of materials that are
different from the other components of the system 300.
[0139] Still referencing FIG. 35, the bone fastener 302 is
configured to engage the anatomy to couple the bone fixation system
300 to the anatomy. The bone fastener 302 includes a head 314 at a
proximal end and an elongate threaded shank portion 316 extending
between the head 314 and a distal end along a longitudinal axis.
The bone fastener 302 is configured as a typical bone screw;
however, the invention is not so limited and any fastener or
other-shaped anchor may be employed. The bone fastener 302 may be a
self-tapping bone screw having at least one cutting flute.
Alternatively, the bone screw may require a hole to be pre-tapped
prior to insertion. The head 314 can be generally arcuate having a
curved or bulbous outer surface and may be spherical or partially
spherical in shape. The head 314 can include a driver connection
feature 318 or socket at the proximal end for mating with any type
of driver such as a driver with a hexagonal-shaped tip to enable
the application of torque to drive the bone fastener 302 into the
anatomy.
[0140] Turning now to FIG. 36, the outer receiver or outer tulip
304 will now be described in detail. The outer receiver 304
includes a sidewall 319 having an outer surface and an inner
surface. The sidewall 319 forms a proximal opening 320 at the
proximal end leading into a substantially cylindrical bore that
extends to a distal opening 322 at the distal end of the outer
receiver 304. The distal opening 322 is configured for receiving at
least a part of the shank portion 316 and/or bone fastener head 314
of the bone fastener 302. The inner surface of the outer receiver
304 at the distal end defines a bone fastener-receiving location
324. The inner surface of the outer receiver 304 in the bone
fastener-receiving location 324 is contoured to form a conforming
seat for the bone fastener head 314 such that when the bone
fastener 302 is inserted into the distal opening 322, the bone
fastener 302 may freely pivot and angulate polyaxially unimpeded
relative to the outer receiver 304 as well as rotate about the
longitudinal axis of the shank portion 316. The inner surface of
the outer receiver 304 in the bone fastener-receiving location 324
includes threads 325 or other interlocking surface features
configured for engagement with threads or other interlocking
surface features on the outer surface of the fastener locking cap
306 as will be described in greater detail below.
[0141] Still referencing FIG. 36, the sidewall 319 of the outer
receiver 304 forms two upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 326.
The two arms 326 are spaced apart from each other to define at
least one channel 328 in the sidewall 319. The channels 328
comprise two oppositely disposed, substantially U-shaped spaces
that interconnect with the proximal opening 320 and the inner bore
of the outer receiver 304. Each channel 328 is shaped to receive an
elongate fixation member 312 such as a spinal fixation rod or other
elgonate member to be connected to the outer receiver 304 by
placement of the rod 312 into the channels 328. The outer receiver
304 includes a rod-receiving location 330 along at least part of
the longitudinal length of the outer receiver 304. In the
rod-receiving location 330 of the outer receiver 304, the inner
surface defines at least two oppositely disposed threaded portions
332 having threads 333. Of course, any interlocking surface
features in lieu of threads may be employed. These threaded
portions 332 extend longitudinally vertically in the rod-receiving
location 330 and are configured to threadingly engage threads
formed on the outer surface of the inner receiver 308. Adjacent to
the threaded portions 332 are two oppositely disposed smooth
surfaces 334 that also run longitudinally vertically in the
rod-receiving location 330. The smooth surfaces 334 provide a
channel for unimpeded longitudinal, vertical translation of the
inner receiver 308 relative to the outer receiver 304. The smooth
surfaces 334 may appear as vertical notches or recessed portions
formed into the inner surface of the outer receiver 304. Hence, the
inner surface of the outer receiver 304 includes both recessed
regions 334 and non-recessed regions 332. The non-recessed regions
332 include threads 333. The recessed regions 334 are recessed with
respect to the non-recessed regions 332. The recessed regions 334
are smooth surfaces that extend longitudinally vertically adjacent
to the longitudinally extending non-recessed threaded regions 332
in the rod receiving location 330. The recessed regions 334 are
configured to receive the arms of the inner receiver 308 such that
the inner receiver 308 may translate vertically relative to the
outer receiver 304 within the recessed regions 334. With the inner
receiver 308 positioned within the recessed regions 334, the outer
surface of the arms of the inner receiver 308 are flush with the
non-recessed regions 332 of the inner surface of the outer receiver
304 such that the threaded outer surface of the inner receiver may
be rotated into the threads of the inner surface of the outer
receiver. The outer surface of the outer receiver 304 may include
two small holes 335 oppositely disposed in the arms 326 for
permitting a reduction instrument or other instrument to grasp onto
the receiver 304. The outer receiver 304 also includes two
oppositely disposed slots 392 in the distal end of the outer
receiver 304 in the bone fastener receiving location 324. The slots
392 are sized and configured for receiving the tabs 344 that extend
downwardly from the inner receiver 308.
[0142] Turning now to FIG. 37, the fastener locking cap 306 will
now be described. The fastener locking cap 306 includes an outer
surface 336 and an inner surface 337 interconnected by a top
surface 338 and a bottom surface 339 to define a substantially
cylindrical shape. The fastener locking cap 306 is configured to
fit inside the inner bore of the outer receiver 304. The outer
surface 336 includes threads 340 configured to engage the threads
325 formed on the inner surface of the outer receiver 304 in the
bone fastener-receiving location 324. The bottom surface 339 of the
fastener locking cap 306 may be curved to conformingly accommodate
the spherical or curved head of the bone screw head 314. As the
fastener locking cap 306 is threaded downwardly into the inner bore
of the outer receiver 304, the bottom surface 339 will engage at
least part of the bone screw head 314 and force it against the seat
or inner surface of the outer receiver 304 arresting or otherwise
locking the bone fastener 302 in a desired angular position
relative to the outer receiver 304. Rotation of the fastener
locking cap 306 in the opposite direction will unlock the
angulation of the fastener 302. The fastener locking cap 306 also
includes an inner bore 342 for accessing the driver connection
feature 318 formed on the bone screw head 314. Furthermore, the
fastener locking cap 306 includes two oppositely disposed, notches
390 or tab engaging features that extend radially inwardly from the
outer surface 336. The notches 390 are sized and configured to
receive tabs 344 formed on the inner receiver 308.
[0143] With reference to FIGS. 38A and 38B, the inner receiver or
inner tulip 308 will now be described in detail. The inner receiver
308 includes a circular base 346 and is sized and configured for
insertion into the inner bore of the outer receiver 304. The base
346 includes an outer surface 348 and an inner surface 349
interconnected by a top surface 350 and a bottom surface 351. A
central aperture 352 extends through the base 346 for accessing the
driver connection feature 319 in the bone screw head 314 with an
instrument for driving the bone fastener 302 into anatomy. Two
upstanding, oppositely disposed arms 354 extend longitudinally
upwardly from the top surface 350. The arms 354 are curved
circumferential segments having a threaded outer surface 356 and a
threaded inner surface 358. Of course, any interlocking surface in
lieu of threads may be employed. The threaded outer surface 356 is
configured for threadingly engaging with the threaded portions 332
of the rod-receiving location 330 and the threaded inner surfaces
358 are configured for threadingly engaging with the threads on the
set screw 310. The inner receiver 308 includes two oppositely
disposed tabs 344 that extend downwardly from the bottom surface
351. The tabs 344 are circumferential segments that are sized and
configured to fit within the notches 390 of the fastener locking
cap 306. The fastener locking cap 306 is interconnected with the
inner receiver 308 by aligning the tabs 344 of the of the inner
receiver 308 with the notches 390 of the inner receiver 308 and
sliding the inner receiver 308 relative to the fastener locking cap
306 by any desired distance. Two oppositely disposed, substantially
U-shaped channels 361 are defined between the arms 354 for
receiving an elongate fixation member 312.
[0144] Referring back to FIG. 35, the set screw 310 is a
substantially cylindrical object having an outer surface 362
interconnected with a top surface 363 and a bottom surface 364. The
outer surface 362 includes threads 366 and is configured to fit
inside the inner receiver 308 and threadingly engage with the
threaded inner surface 358 of the inner receiver 308. The top
surface 363 of the set screw 310 includes a driver receiving
connection or socket 368 configured for engaging the tip of a
driving instrument such as the instrument 272 shown in FIGS. 25 and
26 for turning the set screw 310 into a locked position or unlocked
position. The bottom surface 364 of the set screw 310 may include a
conforming surface that conforms to the outer contour of an
elongate fixation member 312. As the set screw 310 is threaded
downwardly into threaded engagement with the inner receiver 308, it
will bear down with force onto the elongate fixation member 312 to
lock it into the desired position. Rotation of the set screw 310 in
the opposite direction will unlock the elongate fixation member
312.
[0145] Still referencing FIG. 35, the elongate fixation member 312
is a typical spinal fixation rod having a solid cylindrical shape
having a circular cross-section and a length that spans any number
of vertebrae that are to be fixed. Only a short portion of the
elongate fixation member 312 is pictured in FIG. 35 for exemplary
purposes only. Although a spinal fixation rod is pictured, the use
of any fixation member having any cross-section is within the scope
of the present invention.
[0146] Still referring to FIG. 35, at least one optional spring 313
is provided between the inner receiver 308 and the fastener locking
cap 306. Two springs 313 are shown in FIG. 35. The at least one
spring 313 provides a bias force to raise the inner receiver 308
relative to the fastener locking cap 306 so that the z-axis
position of the inner receiver 308, and hence, the longitudinal,
z-axis position of the elongate fixation member 312 may be more
easily adjusted. Spring-receiving areas may also be provided to
help retain the at least one spring 313 in position.
[0147] In use, the bone fixation system 300 is assembled by passing
the shank portion 316 of the bone fastener 302 through the proximal
opening 320 and into the distal opening 322 in the outer receiver
304 with the bone screw head 314 coming to rest in the seat of the
bone fastener receiving location 324 of the outer receiver 304. An
additional retainer (not shown) may be employed if the distal
opening 322 is too large to retain the bone fastener head 314. The
retainer forms an additional seating location for the bone fastener
head 314 permitting it to be retained inside the outer receiver
304. The fastener locking cap 306 is coupled to the inner receiver
308 by sliding the tabs 344 into the notches 390 of the fastener
locking cap 306. The distance between the inner receiver 308 and
the fastener locking cap may be adjusted as desired. Both the
fastener locking cap 306 and the inner receiver 308 are inserted
into the inner bore of the outer receiver 304 such that the arms
354 of the inner receiver 308 are aligned with the smooth surfaces
334 of the outer receiver 304 so that inner receiver 308 and
connected fastener locking cap 306 may telescope freely vertically
within the inner bore of the outer receiver 304 for adjusting the
height of the inner receiver 308, and hence, the height of the
elongate fixation member 312 relative to the outer receiver 304. A
driver instrument may then be inserted into the proximal opening
320 of the inner bore of the outer receiver 304 and through the
central aperture 352 of the inner receiver 308 and through the bore
342 of the fastener locking cap 306 and into the driver connection
feature 318 in the bone fastener head 314. The user may then rotate
the driver to drive the bone fastener 302 into the anatomy. With
the shank portion 316 delivered into bony anatomy, the outer
receiver 304 is permitted to angulate with respect to the bone
fastener 302. An elongate fixation member 312 is then placed into
the channels 328, 361 and between the arms 354 of the inner
receiver 308. A set screw 310 is placed into the inner receiver 308
such that its threads 366 engage the threads of the inner surface
358 of the arms 354. The set screw 310 is only slightly advanced
into the inner receiver 308 such that the inner receiver 308 may
still translate longitudinally relative to the outer receiver 304.
Since the inner receiver 308 is advantageously free to translate
longitudinally within the inner bore of the outer receiver 304, in
particular, free to translate longitudinally within the
rod-receiving location 330 of the outer receiver 304, substantial
z-axis translation is advantageously afforded for precisely
locating the elongate fixation member 312 in the desired location
custom to the anatomy while keeping the elongate fixation member
connected to the bone fixation system and hence to the anatomy
without it popping out of position. FIGS. 39A, 39B, 41A, and 41B
illustrate the elongate fixation member 312 in a relatively low
position along the z-axis, that is, the elongate fixation member
312 is in a position proximal to the head 314 of the bone fastener
302. The inner receiver 308 is also in a relatively low position
along the z-axis in which the inner receiver 308 is proximal to the
head 314 of the bone fastener 302. As such, the tabs 344 of the
inner receiver 308 extend through the slots 392 in the outer
receiver 304. The tabs 344 extending through the slots 392 are
clearly shown in FIGS. 42E and 42F. FIGS. 39A, 39B, 41A, and 41B
illustrate the inner receiver 308 in a locked position relative to
the outer receiver 304 as the arms 354 of the inner receiver 308
are adjacent to the threaded portions 332 of the outer receiver
304. FIGS. 40A, 40B, 42A and 42B illustrate the elongate fixation
member 312 in a relatively high position along the z-axis, that is,
the elongate fixation member 312 is in a position most distal from
the head 314 of the bone fastener 302. The inner receiver 308 is
also in a relatively high position together with the elongate
fixation member 312 longitudinally along the z-axis in which the
inner receiver 308 is distal to the head 314 of the bone fastener
302. In the high position, the tabs 344 do not protrude through
slots 392 as can be seen in FIGS. 42C and 42D. FIGS. 40A, 40B, 42A
and 42B illustrates the inner receiver 308 in an locked position
relative to the outer receiver 304 as the arms 354 of the inner
receiver 308 are adjacent to the threaded portions 332 of the outer
receiver 304. In an unlocked state, the inner receiver 308, which
forms a seat for the elongated fixation member 312, together with
the elongate fixation member 312 are free to translate
longitudinally and the longitudinal, z-axis translation may be
adjusted as desired until the desired position is achieved and
locked in place.
[0148] With the set screw 310 in position within the inner receiver
308, a driver instrument 272 of the type depicted in FIG. 25 is
employed to turn the set screw 310. The driver instrument 272 is
configured to engage the socket 368 on the set screw 310. The
driver instrument 272 rotates the set screw 310 translating it
longitudinally downwardly onto the elongate fixation member 312.
Throughout this time, the position of the elongate fixation member
312 along the z-axis and in the cephalad-caudal or lateral
direction may be adjusted. The angle of the outer receiver 304
relative to the bone fastener 302 is also adjusted at the same
time. Advantageously, these adjustments may be made incrementally
with the positions be locked and unlocked as needed until final
positioning is achieved. The set screw 310 is advanced downwardly
to precisely lock the desired position of these components. When
downward force is exerted onto the elongate fixation member 312
with continued threaded advancement of the set screw 310, the
elongate fixation member 312 will bear down with force against the
circular base 346 of the inner receiver 308. Also, the z-axis
translation of the elongate fixation member 312 will be
substantially arrested. With continued rotation of the set screw
310 with the driver instrument 272, the angular moment of the set
screw 310 will also turn the inner receiver 308 relative to the
outer receiver 304 such that the arms 354 of the inner receiver 308
move from being in contact with or adjacent to the smooth surfaces
or recessed regions 334 and into threaded engagement with the
threaded portions or non-recessed regions 332 of the outer receiver
304 anywhere in the rod-receiving location 330. Such rotation of
the inner receiver 308 relative to the outer receiver 304 will
result in locking or arresting the z-axis, or vertical/longitudinal
position of the elongate fixation member 312 relative to the outer
receiver 304. Of course, reverse rotation of the set screw 310 will
unlock the z-axis position of the inner receiver 308 and elongate
fixation member 312 so that it can be conveniently readjusted and
repositioned as needed for custom and accurate rod placement.
Simultaneously, the relative rotation of the inner receiver 308
will also rotate the connected fastener locking cap 306 within the
threads 340 of the bone fastener receiving location 324 resulting
in the locking down and setting of the angular orientation of the
outer receiver 304 relative to the bone fastener 302. Hence, the
present invention permits the set screw 310 to be used to lock down
simultaneously not only the exact position of the elongate fixation
member 312 relative to the outer receiver 304 in at least the
longitudinal direction, but also, the angulation of the outer
receiver 304 relative to the bone fastener 302. Furthermore, the
fastener locking cap 306 is movable relative to the inner receiver
308 which advantageously allows the distance between the inner
receiver 308 and the fastener locking cap 306 to be adjusted. This
adjustment of the distance between the inner receiver 308 and the
fastener locking cap 306 is assisted by the presence of the at
least one spring 313 located between the inner receiver 308 and the
fastener locking cap 306 which biases these two elements apart. The
variation of the bone fixation system of FIG. 35 is substantially
identical to the variation shown in FIG. 19 with the exception that
the tabs are located on the inner receiver in system 300 and extend
downwardly to couple with the fastener locking cap, whereas, in
system 200 the tabs are located on the fastener locking cap and
extend upwardly to couple with the inner receiver.
[0149] Furthermore, the inner receiver 308 may include a notch 370
formed in each arm 254 that extends radially from the inner surface
358 of the arms 354. The at least one notch 370 is clearly shown in
FIGS. 38A and 38B. Alternatively, the at least one notch 370 may be
formed in the top surface of each arm 354. The notches 370 are
sized and configured for receiving a tool 274 of the like shown in
FIGS. 29A and 29B for rotating the inner receiver 308 relative to
the outer receiver 304 independently of the set screw 310, that is
the inner receiver 308 may be rotated relative to the outer
receiver 304 at any time without the use of a set screw 310 or
prior to the insertion of a set screw 310 in order to lock down the
longitudinal, z-axis distance of the elongate fixation member 312
and inner receiver 308 relative to the outer receiver 304. FIGS.
29A and 29B illustrate the tool 274 having a handle 275 at the
proximal end and distal tip having two oppositely disposed prongs
276 that are configured for engaging the oppositely disposed
notches 370 of the inner receiver 308 to rotate it independently of
the set screw 310. FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrates the tool 274 above
the bone fixation system 200 such as the bone fixation system 300
with the distal prongs 276 substantially aligned with the notches
270. FIG. 31A illustrates the tool 274 with prongs 276 inserted
into the notches 270 with the inner receiver 208 in an unlocked
position and FIG. 32A illustrates the tool 274 with prongs 276
inserted into the notches 270 and the inner receiver 208 rotated
into a locked position in which the arms 254 of the inner receiver
208 are engaging the threaded portions 232 of the outer receiver
204. FIGS. 31B and 32B illustrate the use of the tool 274 to lock
the inner receiver relative to the outer receiver in the absence of
the set screw.
[0150] Throughout this specification wherever threads, threaded
portions or threaded engagements are mentioned, it is to be
understood by one skilled in the art that the invention is not so
limited and any coupling, locking or interlocking surface or
mechanism known to one skilled in the art may be alternatively
employed. For example, threaded engagement, twist-lock, snap-fit,
friction fit, press-fit, ratcheting mechanism, or any friction
locking system is within the scope of the present invention and may
be substituted wherever such substitution is possible.
[0151] The ability to longitudinally translate the elongate
fixation member relative to the outer receiver along the z-axis
provides for a variation in the z-axis relation between the
elongate fixation member and the bone fastener head. This
advantageously allows for easier and more accurate placement of the
elongate fixation member or rod, minimizing the amount of rod
contouring required, while also minimizing the need for translating
the vertebral body itself. Also, the system provides the surgeon
with an easy way to simultaneously or independently, as needed,
lock down the angulation of the tulip and the longitudinal and
lateral position of the rod. These variable lockdown options afford
the surgeon with greater flexibility, greater accuracy and greater
ease in spinal fixation procedures.
[0152] The use of inner and outer receivers that move relative to
each other, including multiple inner telescoping receivers, allow
for translation when needed within the same confines of a
traditional bone fixation assembly while at the same time
permitting them to collapse to substantially the same height as a
non-translating traditional bone fixation assembly when the
translation is unnecessary. In this fashion, the amount that the
screw head and rod construct protrudes above the bone surface is
minimized leading to less injury to the soft tissues overlying the
bone such as muscle and subcutaneous layers and resulting in less
pain for the patient.
[0153] While z-axis translation can be achieved in some systems,
those systems require partial manual assembly of the bone fixation
assembly during surgery. Such a system requires increased operative
time and increased steps of assembly. The present invention
advantageously allows for pre-assembled screw heads, which
simplifies the use of the system.
[0154] The present invention also advantageously provides the
ability to lock the rod at multiple points along the z-axis using
the same screw system. While z-axis translation can be achieved in
some systems by using different screws with different head designs
that secure the rod at different fixed points along the z-axis,
such a system requires the surgeon to pre-plan and pre-select which
screws will require exactly what amount of z-axis distance between
the rod and screw and then to place the screws at the exact height
that was pre-determined leaving the surgeon with fewer options for
greater accuracy in-situ. The present invention allows for
placement of screws of the same design in all vertebral bodies
followed by adjustment of the z-axis translation as required at the
time of securing the rod to the screw, rather than at the time of
placing the screw into the bone.
[0155] The present invention also provides for the ability to lock
the screw head and rod without transmitting force to the underlying
vertebral body. Some systems lock the rod, head assembly, and screw
with a locking mechanism that transmits force and/or torque to the
underlying vertebral body. This force can be undesirable clinically
as it can lead to fracturing of the bone, pullout of the screw, or
deformation of the anatomy, among other outcomes. The present
invention allows for the securing of all components while
minimizing the force and/or torque transmitted to the underlying
vertebral body.
[0156] Turning now to FIGS. 43-46, there is shown a rod reduction
instrument 400 according to the present invention. The rod
reduction instrument 400 is configured to reduce the distance
between an elongate fixation member such as a spinal fixation rod
and the bone fastener in a bone fixation system of the like
described above. The rod reduction instrument 400 includes a first
cylinder 402 connected to a second cylinder 404 and a third
cylinder 406 longitudinally movable with respect to the first and
second cylinders 402, 404. The first cylinder 402 has a circular
cross-section and a central lumen 408 extending between an opening
at the proximal end and an opening at the distal end. The proximal
end of the first cylinder 402 includes a circumferential groove
configured for connecting with the second cylinder 404. The distal
end of the first cylinder 402 includes two oppositely disposed
rod-receiving channels 412. The rod-receiving channels 412 are
sized and configured to receive an elongate fixation member such as
a spinal fixation rod. The second cylinder 404 also has a circular
cross-section and a central bore 414 extending between an opening
at the proximal end and an opening at the distal end. The inner
surface of the second cylinder 404 includes threads 416 that extend
throughout the length of the central bore 414. The distal end of
the second cylinder 404 is sized and configured for receiving the
proximal end of the first cylinder 402. The first cylinder 402 is
inserted into the distal end of the second cylinder 404 and
connected thereto. The third cylinder 406 also has a circular
cross-section and a central lumen 424 extending between an opening
at the proximal and an opening at the distal end. The proximal end
of the third cylinder 406 includes an outer surface with threads
418 along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the
outer surface. The distal end of the third cylinder 406 includes
two oppositely disposed, distally extending prongs 420. The prongs
420 include radially inwardly extending nibs 422. The prongs 420
are spaced apart from each other and the nibs 422 are sized and
configured to be inserted into holes formed in the outer surface of
the outer receiver or outer tulip such as the holes 235 shown in
FIGS. 20, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30B, 33A, and 34 and holes 335 shown in
FIGS. 36, 39B, 41B and 42B. The third cylinder 406 is inserted into
the central lumen 408 of the first cylinder 402 and into the
central bore 414 of the second cylinder 404 and threading engaged
with the second cylinder 404 such that the threads 418 of the third
cylinder 406 are threadingly connected to the threads 416 on the
inner surface of the second cylinder 404 as shown in FIGS. 44-46.
FIG. 45 illustrates the rod reduction instrument 400 with the
prongs 420 extending beyond the distal end of the first cylinder
402. Rotation of the second cylinder 404 draws the third cylinder
406 upwardly as it is connected with threads to the second cylinder
404. The third cylinder 406 in a proximal position relative to the
first cylinder 402 is depicted in FIG. 46. The prongs 402 may be
configured such that they have a tendency to splay radially
outwardly when not confined within the central lumen 408 of the
first cylinder 402. The splaying of prongs 420 makes it easier to
connect the rod reduction instrument 400 to a bone fixation
system.
[0157] In use, the rod reduction instrument 400 is manipulated so
that the prongs 420 extend beyond the distal end of the first
cylinder 402. The rod reduction instrument 400 is then brought into
proximity above a target bone fixation assembly of the like
described above and connected thereto by inserting the nibs 422 of
the prongs 420 into holes such as the holes 235, 335. The elongate
fixation member 212 that is associated with the target bone
fixation assembly 200 is placed within the rod receiving channels
412 of the first cylinder 402. The second cylinder 404 is rotated
from a position shown in FIGS. 47A, 47B, 49A, 49B to a position
shown in FIGS. 48A, 48B, 50A, 50B in which the elongate fixation
member 212 is drawn closer to the bone fastener 202. The set screw
210 may be rotated to lock the relative position of the rod 212 to
the outer receiver 204. FIG. 51 illustrates the rod reduction
instrument 400 connected to a bone fixation system 200 with a tool
274 inserted through the central lumen 424 of the third cylinder
406 and into connection with the inner receiver 208. In particular,
the prongs 276 at the distal end of the tool 274 are inserted into
notches 270 of the inner receiver 208. With the tool 274 connected
to the inner receiver 208, the tool 274 can be rotated to lock the
longitudinal, z-axis position of the inner receiver 208 and hence
the rod 212 relative to the outer receiver 204. Still referencing
FIG. 51, the driver instrument 272 is also inserted into the
central lumen 277 of the tool 274 and passed through the rod
reduction instrument 400 to engage the socket 268 of the set screw
210. Rotation of the set screw 210 with the driver instrument 272
would further lock the rod 212 relative to the inner receiver 208.
Typically the anatomy is manipulated relative to the bone fixation
system 200 as the elongate fixation member 212 is connected at its
other end to another bone fixation system 200 implanted in another
vertebra. With such manipulation, placement of the elongate
fixation rod 212 would require readjustment of the position of the
rod 212 relative to the outer receiver 204. The tool 274 would be
rotated to unlock the inner receiver 208 from the outer receiver
204 such that it is free to translate along the z-axis. At such
point the second cylinder 404 of the rod reduction instrument 400
can be rotated to further draw the rod 212 closer to the bone
fastener 202 or further downwardly within the outer receiver 204 as
shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B. While FIGS. 49A and 49B illustrate the
inner receiver 208 unlocked from the outer receiver 204, FIGS. 50A
and 50B illustrate the inner receiver 208 and rod 212 further
reduced relative to the outer receiver 204. The positions are
locked by the rotation of the inner receiver 208 relative to the
outer receiver 204 by way of the either the driver instrument 272
or the tool 274. This process of reducing the distance between the
rod 212 and the bone fastener 202 or otherwise drawing or seating
the rod 212 downwardly into the outer receiver 204 and then locking
the newly reduced position by turning the inner receiver 208
relative to the outer receiver 204 independently of the set screw
210 with the tool 274 or by turning the set screw 210 with driver
272 until the inner receiver 208 rotates into a locked position
relative to the outer receiver 204 or both can be repeated as
needed by unlocking either the set screw 210 or the inner receiver
208 relative to the outer receiver 204 and then readjusting the
position of the rod 212 or further reducing the rod 212 relative to
the outer receiver 204. It should be repeated that bone fixation
system of the present invention advantageously allows the outer
receiver 204 to be locked and unlocked relative to the bone
fastener 202 to also adjust and readjust the angulation of the bone
fastener 202 relative to the outer receiver 204 simultaneously with
the reduction of the rod 212 or not according to surgeon
preference. Hence, the bone fixation systems of the present
invention are highly versatile suiting all the needs of the surgeon
in complex spinal surgeries.
[0158] It will be understood that many modifications can be made to
the various disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit
and scope of the concept. For example, various sizes of the
surgical devices are contemplated as well as various types of
constructions and materials. It will also be apparent that many
modifications can be made to the configuration of parts as well as
their interaction. For these reasons, the above description should
not be construed as limiting the invention, but should be
interpreted as merely exemplary of preferred embodiments. Those
skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the
scope and spirit of the present invention.
* * * * *