Semi-biological intervertebral disc replacement system

Abstract

The present invention is a system for a partially biological disc replacement that stimulates natural fibrous, cartilaginous or other tissue growth in the DDD cavity, resulting in a partial biological disc replacement. Multiplicities of fibronous pieces of fibro-cartilaginous tissue promoting material are inserted into the DDD cavity inducing tissue growth. The fibro-cartilaginous tissue

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of systems adapted to replacing or assisting bone of a natural vertebral column of a living body. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system that surgeons can use to construct a semi-biological nuclear replacement that will replace the diseased nucleus and ultimately function in a manner similar to a natural disc nucleus. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Low back pain is a condition affecting millions of humans. This syndrome causes great personal, economic and social hardship. Resultant consequences to family members, co-workers and the community are significant. [0003] Scientific evidence indicates that the symptoms of low back pain are most commonly caused by degenerative pathology in the spinal motion segment. The spinal motion segment consists of a unit of spinal anatomy bounded by two vertebral bodies that includes the two vertebral bodies and the interposed intervertebral di...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0021] The present invention improves upon current techniques by creating a biological disc replacement that induces living, natural fibrous tissue growth into the DDD cavity. It is believed that living, natural fibrous tissue is preferable to dead and / or dying DDD tissue. First, living natural fibrous tissue does not exhibit acidic properties nor leak chemicals that may cause nerve inflammation and back pain. Second, living natural fibrous tissue offers more support and stability than decaying tissue.

[0022] Living natural fibrous tissue is also preferable to inert disc replacements. Living natural fibrous tissue will not erode adjacent cartilage or bone. Furthermore, there is less danger to surrounding tissues or nerves should the replaced material extrude from its intended position. Finally, living natural fibrous or fibro-cartilaginous tissue is more likely to mimic the biomechanical and morphologic characteristics of a natural disc.

Problems solved by technology

Second, living natural fibrous tissue offers more support and stability than decaying tissue.

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