Vertebral body replacement and method of use
AssigneeNabil L. Muhanna, M.D.
InventorsNabil L. Muhanna M.D., David L. Schalliol
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Abstract
Vertebral body replacements are provided, including at least one vertebral body replacement in the shape of an oblong object. The oblong vertebral body replacement includes a nose shape to provide as minimally invasive an installation as possible, serrations formed in the side wall of the body replacement's body to prevent expulsion once the body replacement is in place, a tapered asymmetric shape to provide spinal lordosis, and an integral protrusion for stability and to increase the bearing area to reduce contact pressure between the body replacement and the vertebral plate. Hollow passages are typically filled with bone tissue. The body is also provided with holes passing therethrough to promote tissue growth.
Claims4
1-23. (canceled)
A method of inserting a vertebral spacer according to the present invention, into a patient, comprising the steps of:
- (a) inserting the body of the vertebral spacer according to claim 1 into an intervertebral space, wherein the body is substantially not contacting adjacent vertebrae;
- and (b) rotating the body, thereby contacting the body with the adjacent vertebrae;
- and (c) securing the body to the stabilizing body.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.