Spinal stabilization system and method

Abstract

A method for stabilizing the spine at the level of one or more vertebrae includes the step of inserting a pedicle connector through the pedicle of a vertebra from one of the anterior side and posterior side of the vertebra to the other of the anterior side and the posterior side of the vertebra. The pedicle connector is secured to a stabilization construct positioned adjacent to either the anterior side or posterior side of the vertebra. The process is repeated for the opposite side of the pedicle connector. A system for stabilizing the spine and a pedicle connector are also disclosed.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 571,412 filed Aug. 10, 2012, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates generally to spinal implant devices, and more particularly to spinal stabilization systems and methods.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The human spine is comprised of bony vertebrae separated by softer discs and has been the subject of surgical interest for several decades. Since the 1950s spine surgeons have used metallic hardware to increase the success of stabilization surgery. Many spinal disorders lead to spinal instability and surgeons have used the process of bone healing to fuse spinal segments using bone grafts from either the patient or other sources. The addition of spinal hardware in spine surgery has significantly increased the success rate from these bone healing operations commonly known as fusi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method and system for stabilizing the spine by inserting pedicle connectors through the vertebral pedicle and securing them to a stabilization construct using engagement structures. The stabilization construct can be a spinal hardware or a spinal anchor. The method and system can provide stability to the spine in cases of degenerative disc disease, spinal injuries, spinal tumors, and spinal fusion. The technical effects of the patent include improved stability and mobility of the spine, reduced pain, and improved outcomes in spine surgeries.

Problems solved by technology

One of the most devastating complications from spinal stabilization implantation is the phenomena of hardware “pullout”.

With anterior hardware the failure results in the hardware lifting off of the spine as the screw fixation pulls through the cortical bone of the vertebral body.

Often the areas of attachment where the pullout occurred are no longer usable for a stabilization point because of the damaged bone texture in that area.

As these imaging technologies have advanced, accordingly, spinal instrumentation must advance in terms of the accuracy of hardware placement previously considered only possible with large incisions and increased surgical complication risk.

In addition to hardware pullout problems in healthy patients, one of the most challenging medical conditions facing spine surgeons is the patient with spinal instability as well as osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition which lowers bone density and makes screw stabilization less successful by reducing the strength with which the screw holds into the bone substance.

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