Bone tissue fixation device and method

Abstract

Systems, methods, and kits incorporating a clamp for securing to bone tissue. The clamp includes gripping members to secure the clamp to the bone tissue without the use of screws. The clamp may be used to treat spinal conditions, and may be secured to the spinous process of vertebrae. Systems, methods and kits can incorporate a fusion member configured to fuse between adjacent spinous processes.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to, and incorporates by reference, each of the following applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61 / 017,336 filed Dec. 28, 2007; U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61 / 023,327 filed Jan. 24, 2008; U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61 / 104,199 filed Oct. 9, 2008; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61 / 108,368 filed Oct. 24, 2008.BACKGROUND INFORMATION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure comprise a devices that can be secured to bone tissue and methods of securing the devices. In specific exemplary embodiments, a device may be secured to a spinous process of a vertebra. In other exemplary embodiments, a device may be secured to a calvarial flap or other bone tissue.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]The pedicle screw is a common medical device currently used to attach components to a patient's vertebrae. While providing a stable platform to attach components ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a band that can be used to fuse a spinous process (a bone in the spine) without needing to access the adjacent vertebral bodies. The band has multiple openings and a narrowed portion to increase flexibility. The band can be used to decrease the invasiveness of the procedure and avoid risking damage to the surrounding nerves and vessels. By using a porous structure in the band, the risk of bone tissue damage from high loads can be decreased. Overall, the band provides a safer and easier way to fuse spinous processes.

Problems solved by technology

While providing a stable platform to attach components to vertebrae, the pedicle screw has inherent drawbacks in its use.

Such drawbacks include the difficulty in accessing the portion of the vertebrae needed to insert the pedicle screw.

In addition, there are risks of serious injuries to the patient when using a pedicle screw to penetrate a vertebra in a region close to the nerves of the spinal cord.

An anterior approach involves risks of the great blood vessels, the ureter, and the intestinal contents, while a posterior approach involves significant removal of bone, ligament, and joint tissue as well as significant distraction on the nerves.

For example, solid members placed between the vertebrae can cause high loads to be placed on the bone tissue and can result in changes in the internal structure and external form of the bone, according to the principles of Wolff's law.

In certain instances, such a response can cause the bone tissue to pull away from the solid member placed between the vertebrae.

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