U.S. patent application number 17/026791 was filed with the patent office on 2022-01-06 for spinal fixation systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Meditech Spine, LLC. Invention is credited to Robert Bruce Dunaway, Eric Flickinger.
Application Number | 20220000635 17/026791 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006034657 |
Filed Date | 2022-01-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220000635 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Flickinger; Eric ; et
al. |
January 6, 2022 |
SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
A spinal fixation system includes an interbody and a plate. The
interbody defines at least one locking aperture. The plate includes
a front surface, a back surface, and at least one locking
projection extending from the back surface. The at least one
locking projection is removably engaged with the at least one
locking aperture such that the plate is removably coupled to the
interbody.
Inventors: |
Flickinger; Eric; (Atlanta,
GA) ; Dunaway; Robert Bruce; (Akron, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Meditech Spine, LLC |
Atlanta |
GA |
US |
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|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20210085482 A1 |
March 25, 2021 |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006034657 |
Appl. No.: |
17/026791 |
Filed: |
September 21, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62905270 |
Sep 24, 2019 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/7059 20130101;
A61F 2/4684 20130101; A61F 2/4455 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/44 20060101
A61F002/44; A61B 17/70 20060101 A61B017/70 |
Claims
1. A spinal fixation system comprising: an interbody defining a
locking aperture; and a plate comprising a front surface, a back
surface, a locking projection extending from the back surface, and
at least one bone screw aperture extending from the front surface
to the back surface, wherein the locking projection is removably
engaged with the locking aperture of the interbody such that the
plate is removably coupled to the interbody.
2. The spinal fixation system of claim 1, wherein the interbody
comprises a front surface and a central opening, wherein the
locking aperture extends from the front surface to the central
opening, and wherein the locking projection is removably engaged
with the locking aperture such that a locking rib of the locking
projection engages the interbody within the central opening.
3. The spinal fixation system of claim 1, wherein the locking
aperture is a first locking aperture, wherein the locking
projection is a first locking projection, wherein the interbody
further comprises a second locking aperture, and wherein the plate
further comprises a second locking projection that is removably
engaged with the second locking aperture.
4. The spinal fixation system of claim 1, wherein the plate further
defines a locking cam aperture extending from the front surface to
the back surface of the plate, wherein the spinal fixation system
further comprises a locking cam comprising a tab and a stem, and
wherein the stem of the locking cam is removably positioned within
the locking cam aperture.
5. The spinal fixation system of claim 4, wherein the front surface
of the plate comprises a locking collar recess surrounding the
locking cam aperture, wherein the locking cam further comprises a
collar, and wherein the collar of the locking cam is positioned
within the locking collar recess.
6. The spinal fixation system of claim 5, further comprising a
locking collar, wherein the locking collar is positioned within the
locking collar recess and is configured to selectively engage the
collar of the locking cam.
7. The spinal fixation system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
bone screw aperture comprises a plurality of bone screw
apertures.
8. A spinal fixation system comprising: an interbody defining a
locking aperture; a plate comprising a locking projection and
defining a locking cam aperture; and a locking cam comprising a
stem and a tab, wherein the locking projection is removably engaged
with the locking aperture, and wherein the stem of the locking cam
is at least partially positioned within the locking cam
aperture.
9. The spinal fixation system of claim 8, wherein the plate further
defines at least one bone screw aperture extending through the
plate from a front surface of the plate to a back surface of the
plate, wherein the locking projection extends outwardly from the
back surface of the plate, and wherein the locking cam aperture
extends from the front surface of the plate to the back surface of
the plate.
10. The spinal fixation system of claim 8, wherein the interbody
comprises a front surface and a central opening, wherein the
locking aperture extends from the front surface to the central
opening, and wherein the locking projection is removably engaged
with the locking aperture such that a locking rib of the locking
projection engages the interbody within the central opening.
11. The spinal fixation system of claim 8, wherein the locking
projection comprises a stem, wherein the stem comprises a flex
member, and wherein the flex member comprises a locking rib.
12. The spinal fixation system of claim 8, wherein a front surface
of the plate comprises a locking collar recess surrounding the
locking cam aperture, wherein the locking cam further comprises a
collar, and wherein the collar of the locking cam is positioned
within the locking collar recess.
13. The spinal fixation system of claim 12, further comprising a
locking collar, wherein the locking collar is positioned within the
locking collar recess and is configured to selectively engage the
collar of the locking cam.
14. The spinal fixation system of claim 12, wherein the front
surface of the plate further comprises a locking cam recess at
least partially surrounding the locking collar recess, and wherein
tab of the locking cam is movable within the locking cam
recess.
15. A plate for a spinal fixation system, the plate comprising: a
body comprising a front surface and a back surface; a locking
projection extending outwardly from the back surface of the body; a
locking cam aperture extending through the body from the front
surface to the back surface; and a bone screw aperture extending
through the body from the front surface to the back surface.
16. The plate of claim 15, wherein the body further comprises a
perimeter surface between the front surface and the back surface,
and wherein the perimeter surface defines at least one tool
pocket.
17. The plate of claim 15, further comprising a locking collar
recess in the front surface of the body and surrounding the locking
cam aperture.
18. The plate of claim 17, wherein the locking collar recess
further comprises at least one locking rib.
19. The plate of claim 17, further comprising a locking cam recess
in the front surface of the body at least partially surrounding the
locking collar recess.
20. The plate of claim 15, wherein the locking projection is a
first locking projection, and wherein the plate further comprises a
plurality of locking projections extending outwardly from the back
surface.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/905,280, filed on Sep. 24, 2019and
entitled SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS, the content of which
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The field of the invention relates to devices, systems, and
processes for spinal surgeries, and, in particular, to spinal
fixation systems.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Spinal fusion is a surgical technique used to join two or
more vertebrae for the correction of various conditions such as
back pain caused by degenerative conditions, misalignment,
scoliosis, injury causing misalignment, or abnormal intervertebral
motion. Spinal fusion may be indicated for the cervical region or,
(more rarely), the thoracic or lumbar regions.
[0004] Spinal fusion, and particularly intervertebral (or
interbody) fusion, is accomplished by immobilizing vertebrae
relative to one another with one or more surgical implants,
removing a portion of material between the vertebrae, and providing
graft material between the vertebrae.. The material removed
typically includes the intervertebral disk, but may often include
part(s) of one or both of the adjacent vertebrae. Graft material
typically includes supplementary bone material, which may be
obtained from the recipient, a donor, a synthetic substitute, or
any suitable combination of the above.
[0005] Successful fusion requires that the relative orientation of
the fused vertebrae be maintained, as well as the spacing between
them. Although the vertebrae may be fixed by mechanical implants,
such as rods, plates, or cages connected to the vertebrae by
screws, or by exterior support in the form of orthotic bracing,
these approaches are limited and are susceptible to various
problems such as the backing out of bone screws, misalignment,
etc.
SUMMARY
[0006] The terms "invention," "the invention," "this invention" and
"the present invention" used in this patent are intended to refer
broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent and the patent
claims below. Statements containing these terms should be
understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to
limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below. Embodiments
of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims
below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of
various embodiments of the invention and introduces some of the
concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description
section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or
essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it
intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the
claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by
reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of
this patent, any or all drawings, and each claim.
[0007] According to certain examples, a spinal fixation system
includes an interbody and a plate. The interbody defines a locking
aperture, and the plate includes a front surface, a back surface, a
locking projection extending from the back surface, and at least
one bone screw aperture extending from the front surface to the
back surface. The locking projection is removably engaged with the
locking aperture such that the plate is removably coupled to the
interbody.
[0008] According to various examples, a spinal fixation system
includes an interbody that defines a locking aperture. The spinal
fixation system also includes a plate that includes a locking
projection and defines a locking cam aperture. The spinal fixation
system includes a locking cam that has a stem and a tab. The
locking projection is removably engaged with the locking aperture,
and the stem of the locking cam is at least partially positioned
within the locking cam aperture.
[0009] According to some examples, a plate for a spinal fixation
system includes a body having a front surface and a back surface.
The plate also includes a locking projection extending outwardly
from the back surface of the body. The plate further includes a
locking cam aperture extending through the body from the front
surface to the back surface. The plate additionally includes a bone
screw aperture extending through the body from the front surface to
the back surface.
[0010] Various implementations described in the present disclosure
can include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages,
which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of
the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is
intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages
be included within the present disclosure and protected by the
accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The features and components of the following figures are
illustrated to emphasize the general principles of the present
disclosure. Corresponding features and components throughout the
figures can be designated by matching reference characters for the
sake of consistency and clarity.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a spinal fixation system
according to aspects of the current disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a front view of the spinal fixation system of FIG.
1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a back view of the spinal fixation system of FIG.
1.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of the spinal fixation system of FIG.
1.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a top view of the spinal fixation system of FIG.
1.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the spinal fixation system of
FIG. 1 taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the spinal fixation system of
FIG. 1 taken along line 7-7 in FIG. 4.
[0019] FIG. 8 is an exploded assembly view of the spinal fixation
system of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an interbody of the spinal
fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 10 is an exploded assembly view of a plate and locking
collars of the spinal fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a front view of the plate of the spinal fixation
system of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a back view of the plate of the spinal fixation
system of FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 13 is a side view of the plate of the spinal fixation
system of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 14 is another side view of the plate of the spinal
fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a locking cam of the spinal
fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the locking cam of the spinal
fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 17 is a top view of a locking collar of the spinal
fixation system of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the locking collar on the
locking cam.
[0030] FIG. 19 is a side view of the locking collar on the locking
cam.
[0031] FIG. 20 is a bottom view of the locking collar on the
locking cam.
[0032] FIG. 21 illustrates a view of the spinal fixation system of
FIG. 1 being implanted in a spine with a tool according to aspects
of the current disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 22 illustrates another view of the spinal fixation
system of FIG. 1 being implanted in a spine with the tool.
[0034] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the tool of FIG. 21.
[0035] FIG. 24 is a sectional view of the tool of FIG. 21.
[0036] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a trial system according to
aspects of the current disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the trial system
of FIG. 25.
[0038] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a trial plate and a trial
body of the trial system of FIG. 25.
[0039] FIG. 28 is a side view of a plate of a spinal fixation
system according to aspects of the current disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention
is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements,
but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope
of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other
ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in
conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This
description should not be interpreted as implying any particular
order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements
except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of
elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as
"up," "down," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "front," and
"back," among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as
illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the
components and directions are referencing.
[0041] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards
spinal fixation systems and associated methods, systems, devices,
and apparatuses. The disclosed spinal fixation systems are
described in but a few exemplary aspects among many.
[0042] FIGS. 1-20 illustrate an example of a spinal fixation system
100 that includes an interbody 102 and a plate 104. As discussed in
detail below, the spinal fixation system 100 may also include a
locking cam 106 and a locking collar 108 (FIG. 6). The components
of the spinal fixation system 100 may be constructed from various
suitable biocompatible materials such that the implant can be
provided within a patient's body. As one example, the interbody 102
may be constructed from polyetheretherketone ("PEEK"),
hydroxyapatite polyetheretherketone ("HA PEEK"), or other suitable
materials, and the plate 104 may be constructed from a metal, such
as titanium or others. In some examples, one or more components of
the spinal fixation system 100 may be coated, surface-altered,
and/or impregnated with various materials using various known
techniques.
[0043] The interbody 102 includes a front surface 110, a back
surface 112, an upper surface 114, and a lower surface 116. The
shape and profile of the interbody 102 illustrated in FIGS. 1-20
should not be considered limiting on the current disclosure, as in
other examples, the interbody 102 may have various suitable shapes
and profiles as desired. In some cases, gripping portions 118 may
be provided on the upper surface 114 and/or the lower surface 116
to engage the vertebrae of the patient. In various examples, the
interbody 102 defines a central opening 120 that is configured for
receiving graft material that helps the interbody 102 fuse with the
vertebrae of the patient when the spinal fixation system 100 is
positioned within an intervertebral disc space of the patient's
body. The shape of the central opening 120 should not be considered
limiting on the current disclosure. Various other openings or
apertures may be provided on the interbody 102 as desired.
[0044] In various examples, the interbody 102 defines one or more
locking apertures 122 (see FIG. 8, for example). In various
aspects, each locking aperture 122 extends from the front surface
110 to the central opening 120. In some examples, a central axis of
one of the locking apertures 122 is substantially parallel with a
central axis of another locking aperture 122, although it need not
be in other examples. While two locking apertures 122 are shown, in
other examples, the interbody 102 may include any number of locking
apertures as desired such as one locking aperture, three locking
apertures, etc. As discussed in detail below, the locking apertures
122 may receive locking projections of the plate 104 such that the
plate 104 is selectively coupled to the interbody 102.
[0045] The plate 104 includes a front surface 124, a back surface
125, and a perimeter surface 128 between the front surface 124 and
the back surface 125. When the plate 104 is assembled with the
interbody 102, the back surface 125 of the plate 104 may be
positioned adjacent to the front surface 110 of the interbody 102.
In certain examples, a shape or profile of the back surface 125 is
complimentary to a shape or profile of the front surface 110,
although it need not be in other examples. In some non-limiting
examples, the front surface 124 and the back surface 125 may have a
non-linear curvature in at least one direction, although in other
examples, the front surface 124 and/or the back surface 125 may
have various suitable profiles as desired.
[0046] The plate 104 defines one or more bone screw apertures 126
for receiving bone screws (not illustrated) that engage the
vertebrae of the patient and secure the spinal fixation system 100
within the patient's body. In the example of FIGS. 1-20, the plate
104 includes four bone screw apertures 126, although in other
examples, any number of bone screw apertures may be utilized. Each
bone screw aperture 126 extends from the front surface 124 to the
back surface 125. In some examples, the bone screw apertures 126
may extend through the plate 104 at an oblique angle relative to a
plane of the front surface 124 and/or the back surface 125,
although they need not in other examples. In certain cases, a
central axis of one of the bone screw apertures 126 may be
non-parallel to a central axis of another one of the bone screw
apertures 126.
[0047] In various examples, the plate 104 defines one or more
locking cam apertures 130. The number of locking cam apertures 130
should not be considered limiting on the current disclosure. In
various examples, the number of locking cam apertures 130
corresponds with the number of locking cams 106. In the example of
FIGS. 1-20, the plate 104 includes two locking cam apertures 130.
Each locking cam aperture 130 extends from the front surface 124 to
the back surface 125 of the plate 104. When the spinal fixation
system 100 is assembled, a portion of a locking cam 106 may be
positioned within each locking cam aperture 130 such that the
locking cam 106 is selectively movable between an unlocked position
and a locked position. In the unlocked position (best illustrated
in FIGS. 1 and 2), the locking cam 106 may allow for the
positioning of bone screws in the bone screw apertures 126. In the
locked position, a portion of the locking cam 106 overlaps a
portion of the bone screw aperture 126 and thus bone screws within
the bone screw aperture 126 to prevent the bone screws from backing
out of the bone screw apertures 126.
[0048] As best illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, in various examples,
the plate 104 defines a locking collar recess 132 that selectively
receives a locking collar 108 when assembled. In some cases, the
locking collar recess 132 includes one or more alignment ribs 134
(FIG. 11), which may aid in the positioning and retention of the
locking collar 108 within a particular locking collar recess 132.
As described in detail below, the locking collar 108 may aid in the
positioning and retention of the locking cam 106 on the plate 104.
In various cases, each locking cam aperture 130 extends through a
corresponding locking collar recess 132.
[0049] In some aspects, the plate 104 includes a locking cam recess
136 that at least partially surrounds a corresponding locking cam
aperture 130. The locking cam recess 136 may facilitate movement of
the locking cam 106 within a particular locking cam recess 136 by
minimizing interference between the locking cam 106 and the plate
104 as the locking cam 106 is rotated between the locked and
unlocked positions.
[0050] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4, 8, 10, and 14, in some
cases, the perimeter surface 128 defines one or more tool pockets
138 that selectively receive a portion of an implanting tool during
installation of the spinal fixation system 100. In the example of
FIGS. 1-20, the perimeter surface 128 includes two tool pockets
138, although any number of tool pockets may be utilized as
desired.
[0051] In various examples, the back surface 125 of the plate 104
includes one or more locking projections 140 that are insertable
into the locking apertures 122 of the interbody 102 to selectively
secure the plate 104 relative to the interbody 102. In the example
of FIGS. 1-20, the plate 104 includes two locking projections 140,
although in other examples, any desired number of locking
projections may be utilized. As shown in FIGS. 13-14, each locking
projection 140 includes a stem portion 142 and locking ribs 146.
The stem portion 142 is insertable into the corresponding locking
aperture 122, and the locking ribs 146 selectively engage the
interbody 102. In various examples, the locking ribs 146
selectively engage the interbody 102 within the central opening
120, although they need not in other examples. Optionally, the stem
portion 142 includes one or more flex members 144 that bias the
locking ribs 146 outwardly such that the locking ribs 146 engage
the interbody 102 and the interbody 102 and plate 104 are retained
together.
[0052] As best illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, each locking cam 106
includes a tab portion 148, a collar 150, and a stem portion 152.
In various examples, the locking cam 106 defines a tool recess 154
in the tab portion 148 that can receive a tool that rotates the
locking cam 106 between the locked and unlocked positions. The
collar 150 is positionable within the locking cam recess 136 of the
plate 104 and may include one or more collar ribs 156 that
selectively engages the locking collar 108 within the locking cam
recess 136. Engagement of the collar ribs 156 within the locking
cam recess 136 may selectively maintain the locking cam 106 in the
unlocked configuration or the locked configuration. The stem
portion 152 of each locking cam 106 is insertable into a
corresponding one of the locking cam apertures 130 of the plate
104. Optionally, the stem portion 152 includes one or more flex
members and/or locking ribs similar those of the locking
projections 140, although it need not in other examples.
[0053] In certain aspects, the locking cam 106 is rotatable while
the collar 150 is within the locking cam recess 136 such that the
locking cam 106 can rotate between the locked configuration (where
the tab portions 148 partially overlap the bone screw apertures
126) and the unlocked configuration (where the tab portions 148 do
not overlap the bone screw apertures 126). As mentioned, FIGS. 1
and 2 illustrate the locking cams 106 in the unlocked
configuration.
[0054] As best illustrated in FIG. 17, each locking collar 108
includes locking arms 158 and/or locking notches 160 that engage
with the alignment ribs 134 of the plate 104 such that a position
and orientation of the locking collar 108 relative to the plate 104
can be maintained. In some cases, each locking collar 108 also
defines cam-locking notches 162 that selectively engage the collar
ribs 156 of the corresponding locking cam 106 to maintain the
locking cam 106 in the unlocked configuration or the locked
configuration. In some cases, the locking collars 108 may be
integrally or monolithically formed with the plate 104 as a unitary
component, but in other examples, the locking collars 108 are
separate components that are assembled with the plate 104.
[0055] FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate the spinal fixation system 100
being implanted into vertebrae 2100. As illustrated in FIGS. 21 and
22, an implanting tool 2102 may selectively engage the tool pockets
138 of the plate 104 during implantation to insert the spinal
fixation system 100 into the vertebrae 2100.
[0056] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the implanting tool 2102 in
greater detail. As illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24, the implanting
tool 2102 generally includes a body 2304 and an engagement feature
2306. In the example of FIGS. 23 and 24, the engagement feature
2306 is a body with a pair of hooks 2308A-B. In some examples, the
body 2304 is hollow, and the engagement feature 2306 is at least
partially positioned within the body 2304. In various examples, the
engagement feature 2306 is removable from the body 2304 such that
another type of engagement feature may be used with the implanting
tool 2102.
[0057] As best illustrated in FIG. 24, in some examples the
implanting tool 2102 may include a knob 2309 or other suitable
device that is engaged with the engagement feature 2306 to control
at least one aspect of the engagement feature 2306. In the example
of FIGS. 23 and 24, the knob 2309 is rotatably supported on the
body 2304 and threadably engaged with the engagement feature 2306
to move the engagement feature 2306 in a linear direction
(represented by arrow 2401) and thereby control how much of the
engagement feature 2306 is retained within the body 1204. In the
example of FIGS. 23 and 24, by controlling how much of the
engagement feature 2306 is within the body 2304, and because the
hooks 2308A-B have non-planar surfaces 2310, a distance 2403
between the hooks 2308A-B may be controlled and adjusted as desired
(e.g., to be increased or decreased compared to that illustrated in
FIG. 24).
[0058] FIGS. 25-27 illustrate an example of a trial system 2500
according to aspects of the current disclosure. In some examples,
and as explained in detail below, the trial system 2500 may be
utilized to determine a correct size of a spinal fixation system
for a patient before the final spinal fixation system is
implanted.
[0059] As illustrated in FIGS. 25-27, the trial system 2500
generally includes a template tool 2502, a trial plate 2504, and a
trial body 2506. The template tool 2502 includes a handle 2508 and
an engaging portion 2510. In some examples, as illustrated in FIG.
26, the engaging portion 2510 is removably attached to the handle
2508 through various suitable mechanisms such as threading, hooks,
pins, snaps, locks, etc. as desired. In other examples, the
engaging portion 2510 and the handle 2508 are a single
component.
[0060] The trial plate 2504 may generally have a shape and size
that corresponds to a particular size of a plate of the spinal
fixation system. Similarly, the trial body 2506 may have a shape
and size that corresponds to a particular size of an interbody of
the spinal fixation system. The trial plate 2504 may include
alignment ribs 2512 that assist with positioning the trial plate
2504 relative to the trial body 2506. An end 2514 of the engaging
portion 2510 may engage the trial plate 2504 and/or the trial body
2506 to give an approximation of the spinal fixation system and/or
the inserter tool during implantation. In some cases, the end 2514
includes threading, and the trial plate 2504 and trial body 2506
include apertures configured to engage the end 2514 (with or
without threading). In other examples, various other suitable
engagement mechanisms may be utilized to engage the engaging
portion 2510 with the trial plate 2504 and/or the trial body
2506.
[0061] In some cases, the trial system 2500 may be used to simulate
an implantation procedure, and based on the simulation (or other
measurements), a doctor or other professional may determine the
appropriate sized spinal fixation system. For example, the doctor
may determine that a larger or smaller plate 104 and/or interbody
102 during an actual implant procedure for a patient based on the
trial system 2500. In other words, the trial system 2500 may be
used to verify or determine what size implants need to be used.
[0062] FIG. 28 illustrates another example of a plate 2804 for a
spinal fixation system according to aspects of the current
disclosure. The plate 2804 is substantially similar to the plate
104 except that locking projections 2840 of the plate 2804 (only
one locking projection 2840 is visible in FIG. 28) do not include
locking ribs 146 and the stem portion 142 does not include flex
members 144. Instead, the locking projections 2840 of the plate
2804 are tapered as they extend away from the back surface 125, and
an end 2811 of each locking projection 2840 has a width that is
less than a width of a portion of each locking projection 2840 that
is closer to the back surface 125. In certain embodiments, the
tapered locking projections 2840 are configured to form a press fit
or friction fit with an interbody of the spinal fixation system
(e.g., the interbody 102) such that the interbody and plate 2804
are retained together.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1-8, a method of assembling the spinal
fixation system 100 is also disclosed. In various aspects, the
method includes assembling the plate 104 with the interbody 102
such that a position and orientation of the plate 104 relative to
the interbody 102 is maintained. In some cases, assembling the
plate 104 with the interbody 102 includes positioning the back
surface 125 of the plate 104 adjacent to the front surface 110 of
the interbody 102. Assembling the plate 104 with the interbody 102
also includes positioning the locking projections 140 of the plate
104 within the locking apertures 122 of the interbody 102. In
certain cases, positioning the locking projections 140 within the
corresponding locking apertures 122 includes inserting the stem
portion 142 within the locking aperture 122 such that the locking
ribs 146 engage the interbody 102 and the interbody 102 and the
plate 104 are retained together. Assembling the plate 104 with the
interbody 102 may also include positioning the locking collars 108
in the corresponding locking collar recesses 132. In some cases,
each locking collar 108 is assembled by engaging the locking arms
158 and/or locking notches 160 with the alignment ribs 134 of the
plate 104.
[0064] The method includes assembling the locking cams 106 with the
assembled interbody 102 and the plate 104. In various aspects,
assembling each locking cam 106 includes inserting the stem portion
152 into the corresponding locking cam aperture 130 and the collar
150 within the locking cam recess 136. Assembling each locking cam
106 may include engaging collar ribs 156 with corresponding
cam-locking notches 162 of the locking collar 108.
[0065] The method may include implanting the assembled spinal
fixation system 100 into vertebrae 2100 of the patient. Implanting
the spinal fixation system 100 may include engaging an implanting
tool 2102 with tool pockets 138 of the plate 104. Bone screws may
be inserted through the bone screw apertures 126. Inserting the
bone screws may include initially rotating the locking cam 106 such
that the tab portion 148 is in the unlocked configuration. The bone
screws are then inserted through the bone screw apertures 126 to
engage the vertebrae 2100 of the patient and secure the spinal
fixation system within the patient's body. After the bone screws
are inserted and engaged with the vertebrae, the tab portion 148
may be rotated to the locked configuration.
[0066] In some examples, prior to assembling the spinal fixation
system, the method may include determining a spinal fixation system
size using the trial system 2500. Determining the size of the
spinal fixation system may include assembling the trial system 2500
with the trial plate 2504 and the trial body 2506. The trial plate
2504 corresponds to a particular sized plate of the spinal fixation
system, and the trial body 2506 corresponds to a particular sized
interbody of the spinal fixation system. In some examples, the
method includes simulating at least a portion of an implant
procedure with the trial system 2500. In various examples, the
method includes determining a proper size of the plate 104 and/or
the interbody 102 based on and relative to the size of the trial
plate 2504 and the trial body 2506. Based on the trial system 2500,
a desired plate 104 and/or interbody 102 are provided to the doctor
or professional. For example, the desired plate 104 and interbody
102 may be attached together, connected to an inserter tool (e.g.,
via engagement features 2306), and implanted into a disc space.
[0067] The spinal fixation system described herein has many
advantageous features. For example, the spinal fixation system may
be configured so that it directs the screw angle trajectory of the
bone screws and at anterior corners of the patient's vertebrae to
facilitate maximum purchase of the screws into the patient's
cortical shell.
[0068] As another example, the design of the spinal fixation system
maximizes the utilization of PEEK (or other biocompatible material)
of the interbody while still providing titanium on titanium
fixation. For example, the spinal fixation system with the titanium
plate and bone screws and HA PEEK interbody reduces the amount of
titanium in the spinal fixation system as compared to conventional
spinal fixation systems. This is advantageous because PEEK more
closely resembles cortical bone and is therefore more
biomechanically acceptable. As a further example, because more
biomechanically acceptable material is available for contact
(through the increase in the PEEK material on the upper surface and
lower surface), the interbody may promote surface area contact as
compared to conventional spinal fixation systems. This in turn may
promote an increase in fusion velocity as compared to conventional
spinal fixation systems. This increased surface area also helps the
interbody resist subsidence.
[0069] In addition, a reduced amount of titanium allows for better
imaging of the spinal fixation system and the portion of the
patient's body with the spinal fixation system. The spinal fixation
system design also eliminates the need to snap the spinal fixation
system into place and then insert a metal ring to retain it in
position, which may otherwise introduce imaging issues.
[0070] Moreover, in some cases, the configuration of the spinal
fixation system facilitates proper anterior-posterior placement of
the spinal fixation system within a patient and/or increases
torsional stability of the spinal fixation system. As yet another
advantage, the spinal fixation system has superior attachment
capabilities, which results in a stronger overall fixation of the
spinal fixation system to the vertebrae.
[0071] In some cases, the design of the interbody is such that it
can be used in isolation if needed (i.e., without the plate). This
is possible because the plate can be omitted while allowing for a
front surface with structural integrity. Moreover, the spinal
fixation system is designed to facilitate ease of installation in
that the plate can be snapped into place on the front surface of
the interbody into the predefined configuration rather than
requiring other alignment of the plate relative to the
interbody.
[0072] A collection of exemplary examples, including at least some
explicitly enumerated as "ECs" (Example Combinations), providing
additional description of a variety of example types in accordance
with the concepts described herein are provided below. These
examples are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or
restrictive; and the invention is not limited to these example
examples but rather encompasses all possible modifications and
variations within the scope of the issued claims and their
equivalents.
[0073] EC 1. A spinal fixation system comprising: an interbody
defining a locking aperture; and a plate comprising a front
surface, a back surface, a locking projection extending from the
back surface, and at least one bone screw aperture extending from
the front surface to the back surface, wherein the locking
projection is removably engaged with the locking aperture such that
the plate is removably coupled to the interbody.
[0074] EC 2. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the interbody comprises a
front surface and a central opening, wherein the locking aperture
extends from the front surface to the central opening, and wherein
the locking projection is removably engaged with the locking
aperture such that a locking rib of the locking projection engages
the interbody within the central opening.
[0075] EC 3. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the locking aperture is a
first locking aperture, wherein the locking projection is a first
locking projection, wherein the interbody further comprises a
second locking aperture, and wherein the plate further comprises a
second locking projection that is removably engaged with the second
locking aperture.
[0076] EC 4. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the plate further defines
a locking cam aperture extending from the front surface to the back
surface of the plate, wherein the spinal fixation system further
comprises a locking cam comprising a tab and a stem, and wherein
the stem of the locking cam is removably positioned within the
locking cam aperture.
[0077] EC 5. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the front surface of the
plate comprises a locking collar recess surrounding the locking cam
aperture, wherein the locking cam further comprises a collar, and
wherein the collar of the locking cam is positioned within the
locking collar recess.
[0078] EC 6. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, further comprising a locking
collar, wherein the locking collar is positioned within the locking
collar recess and is configured to selectively engage the collar of
the locking cam.
[0079] EC 7. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the at least one bone
screw aperture comprises a plurality of bone screw apertures.
[0080] EC 8. A spinal fixation system comprising: an interbody
defining a locking aperture; a plate comprising a locking
projection and defining a locking cam aperture; and a locking cam
comprising a stem and a tab, wherein the locking projection is
removably engaged with the locking aperture, and wherein the stem
of the locking cam is at least partially positioned within the
locking cam aperture.
[0081] EC 9. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the plate further defines
at least one bone screw aperture extending through the plate from a
front surface of the plate to a back surface of the plate, wherein
the locking projection extends outwardly from the back surface of
the plate, and wherein the locking cam aperture extends from the
front surface of the plate to the back surface of the plate.
[0082] EC 10. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the interbody comprises a
front surface and a central opening, wherein the locking aperture
extends from the front surface to the central opening, and wherein
the locking projection is removably engaged with the locking
aperture such that a locking rib of the locking projection engages
the interbody within the central opening.
[0083] EC 11. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the locking projection
comprises a stem, wherein the stem comprises a flex member, and
wherein the flex member comprises a locking rib.
[0084] EC 12. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein a front surface of the
plate comprises a locking collar recess surrounding the locking cam
aperture, wherein the locking cam further comprises a collar, and
wherein the collar of the locking cam is positioned within the
locking collar recess.
[0085] EC 13. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, further comprising a locking
collar, wherein the locking collar is positioned within the locking
collar recess and is configured to selectively engage the collar of
the locking cam.
[0086] EC 14. The spinal fixation system of any of the preceding or
subsequent example combinations, wherein the front surface of the
plate further comprises a locking cam recess at least partially
surrounding the locking collar recess, and wherein tab of the
locking cam is movable within the locking cam recess.
[0087] EC 15. A plate for a spinal fixation system, the plate
comprising: a body comprising a front surface and a back surface; a
locking projection extending outwardly from the back surface of the
body; a locking cam aperture extending through the body from the
front surface to the back surface; and a bone screw aperture
extending through the body from the front surface to the back
surface.
[0088] EC 16. The plate of any of the preceding or subsequent
example combinations, wherein the body further comprises a
perimeter surface between the front surface and the back surface,
and wherein the perimeter surface defines at least one tool
pocket.
[0089] EC 17. The plate of any of the preceding or subsequent
example combinations, further comprising a locking collar recess in
the front surface of the body and surrounding the locking cam
aperture.
[0090] EC 18. The plate of any of the preceding or subsequent
example combinations, wherein the locking collar recess further
comprises at least one locking rib.
[0091] EC 19. The plate of any of the preceding or subsequent
example combinations, further comprising a locking cam recess in
the front surface of the body at least partially surrounding the
locking collar recess.
[0092] EC 20. The plate of any of the preceding or subsequent
example combinations, wherein the locking projection is a first
locking projection, and wherein the plate further comprises a
plurality of locking projections extending outwardly from the back
surface.
[0093] Different arrangements of the components depicted in the
drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not
shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and
sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference
to other features and sub-combinations. Embodiments of the
invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive
purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to
readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not
limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the
drawings, and various embodiments and modifications may be made
without departing from the scope of the claims below.
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