Minimally invasive expandable contained vertebral implant and method

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention include expandable, implantable devices and methods. Devices expand linearly within the volume of a membrane and laterally to provide secure fixation between or among anatomical structures. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more vertebral bodies, or portions of vertebral bodies, of the spine.

Description

Background technique [0001] It is sometimes desirable to remove one or more vertebrae, or parts of vertebrae, from the human spine in response to various pathologies. For example, one or more vertebrae may be damaged due to tumor growth, or may be damaged due to trauma or other events. Removing or removing vertebrae may be called a vertebrectomy. Resection of a substantially anterior portion of a vertebra, or vertebral body, may be referred to as a corpectomy. As part of a corpectomy, or vertebral resection, implants are typically placed between the remaining vertebrae to provide structural support for the spine. figure 1 Shows the four vertebrae V of a typical lumbar spine 1 -V 4 and three discs D 1 -D 3 . As shown, V 3 is a damaged vertebra, and all or part of the V 3 Removable to help stabilize the spine. If along the intervertebral disc D 2 and D 3 removed, the implant can then be placed in the vertebra V 2 and V 4 between. In some cases, implants inserted b...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The nerve root N can be moved to slightly increase the size of the window W, but excessive movement risks damaging the nerve root N

Images