US 7,563,286 B2 · Controlled artificial intervertebral disc implant

Abstract

The invention relates to an artificial intervertebral disc for placement between adjacent vertebrae. The artificial intervertebral disc is preferably designed to restore disc height and natural disc curvature, allow for a natural range of motion, absorb shock and provide resistance to motion and axial compression. Furthermore, the intervertebral disc may be used in the cervical, the thoracic, or the lumbar regions of the spine. The artificial intervertebral disc may include either singularly or in combination: an interior including at least one spring member preferably incorporating a arcuate surface member, a flexible core, the flexible core preferably being a slotted core, a ring spring, a winged leaf spring, or a leaf spring, or The articulating member preferably being attached to one of the endplate by an intermediate shock absorbing element.

Claims40

Dependent claims

An articulating intervertebral implant for implantation between first and second vertebrae, the implant comprising:

a first endplate having a first inner surface and a first outer surface for engaging the first vertebra;
a second endplate having a second inner surface and a second outer surface for engaging the second vertebra;
a cover plate coupled to the first endplate, the cover plate including an inner opening;
a first insert member adapted to be received within the inner opening of the cover plate, the first insert member having a first articulating surface operatively associated with the second endplate so that the first and second endplates can articulate with respect to each other;
and
a spring component located between the first insert member and the first endplate, wherein the spring component is a leaf spring.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Controlled artificial intervertebral disc implant

Life of this patent

Controlled artificial intervertebral disc implant

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims40