Adaptive spinal rod and methods for stabilization of the spine

Abstract

An adaptive spinal rod is provided for connecting levels of an adaptive stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the adaptive stabilization rod include a ball having an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides adaptive stabilization and load-sharing. The adaptive spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The adaptive spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

Description

CLAIM TO PRIORITY[0001]This patent application claims priority to the following patents and patent applications:[0002]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 353,508, filed Jun. 10, 2010, entitled “ADAPTIVE SPINAL ROD AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE” (Attorney Docket No. SPART-01058US0); and[0003]U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 435,961, filed Jan. 25, 2011, entitled “ADAPTIVE SPINAL ROD AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE” (Attorney Docket No. SPART-01058US1).[0004]All of the afore-mentioned patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0005]This application is related to all of the afore-mentioned patent applications. This application is also related to all of the following applications including:[0006]U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 014,868, filed Jan. 27, 2011, entitled “ADAPTIVE SPINAL ROD AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE” (Attorney Docket No. SPART-01058US2); an...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]The present invention includes a spinal implant system and methods that can dynamically stabilize the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the invention provide an adaptive spinal stabilization system which includes: versatile components, adaptive stabilization assemblies, and methods of implantation. An aspect of embodiments of the invention is the ability to stabilize two, three and / or more levels of the spine by the selection of appropriate components of embodiments of the invention for implantation in a patient. Another aspect of embodiments of the invention is the ability to accommodate particular anatomy of the patient by providing a system of versatile components which may be customized to the anatomy and needs of a particular patient and procedure. Another aspect of the invention is to facilitate the process of implantation and minimize disruption of tissues during implantation.

Problems solved by technology

Back pain is a significant clinical problem and the costs to treat it, both surgical and medical, are estimated to be over $2 billion per year.

However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including reduced range of motion and accelerated degenerative changes adjacent the fused vertebrae.

However, current devices and treatments suffer from disadvantages e.g., complicated implantation procedures; lack of flexibility to conform to diverse patient anatomy; the need to remove tissue and bone for implantation; increased stress on spinal anatomy; insecure anchor systems; poor durability, and poor revision options.

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