US 9,517,142 B2 · Insert for insertion into an expandable spinal interbody fusion device

Abstract

An expandable interbody fusion device includes superior and inferior endplates that are configured to receive a sequentially inserted stack of expansion members or wafers in interlocking engagement. The expansion members are formed to each have a generally U-shaped rearward facing opening. The superior and inferior endplates have openings through their outer surfaces in at least partial alignment and communication with the rearward facing openings of the expansion members. The inferior endplate has a fully bounded cavity for telescoping receipt of the superior endplate. The inferior endplate also has a fully bounded channel extending through the rear endwall thereof in direct communication with the rearward facing opening of at least one expansion member for the receipt of bone graft material into the device to promote fusion between opposing vertebral bodies of the spine.

Claims14

Dependent claims

An insert for insertion into an expandable interbody fusion device between two opposing vertebral bodies of a spine, comprising:

an elongate body having a generally planar upper surface, a generally planar opposite lower surface, a front end and a rear end;
at least one locking surface on said elongate body for cooperative locking engagement with said device, said locking surface including a T-bar configuration on one of said upper surface and said lower surface and a T-slot configuration on the other of said upper surface and said lower surface;
a rearwardly facing opening extending through said upper surface, said lower surface and said rear end, and a pushing surface between said upper and lower surface within and communicating with said rearward facing opening;
said body including a pair of spaced opposing arms joined by a base extending therebetween, said arms having a U-shaped configuration defining said rearwardly facing opening, a surface of said base defining said pushing surface;
and
said locking surface including at least one resilient interlocking element.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Insert for insertion into an expandable spinal interbody fusion device

Life of this patent

Insert for insertion into an expandable spinal interbody fusion device

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims14