Compressible cervical vertebra plate

Abstract

A compressible plate (100) includes a plurality of plate segments (102, 104a, 104b) for compressing two or more bone structures. The compressible cervical vertebra plate includes a spring retaining member (124) extending from at least one plate segment and a spring retaining member recess (114) disposed at the other plate segment, the spring retaining member recess receiving the spring retaining member. A spring (122) is disposed at the spring retaining member and provides active compression between the plurality of plate segments.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to all common subject matter of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 818,051, filed August 28, 2024, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 488,870, filed October 17, 2023. The above-mentioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety into the present application. BACKGROUND 1. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to implantable orthopedic devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a compression plate system for supporting a segment of a spinal column.

[0005] 2. RELATED ART

[0006] A variety of implantable orthopedic devices are known in the art for assisting in recovery following trauma or injury. Among such devices, many involve relatively rigid devices that force a substantial load transfer from the anatomy to the orthopedic device, such as from the spinal column to an implanted cervical plate. In some cases, such load transfer inhibits the desired loading of the anatomy. In the case of osteogenic tissue, insufficient loading will inhibit, reduce, or prevent the ossification of the structure, a concept described by and referred to as “Wolf’s Law.”

[0007] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide orthopedic devices that provide controlled load distribution while providing the support necessary to prevent damage to the bone graft and / or other anatomy to allow healing. Further, it is desirable to provide orthopedic devices that provide a compressive force between the attached bone structures to enhance the ossification and healing of the corresponding bone. SUMMARY

[0008] The embodiments disclosed herein address the above-described problems by providing systems and devices for orthopedic implantation that allow for active compression between two or more osteogenic structures.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a compression plate configured to provide active compression of two or more osteogenic structures, the compression plate comprising: a plug plate segment comprising a spring retention member extending therefrom; a socket plate segment movably coupled to the plug plate segment and receiving the spring retention member therein; a plurality of bone screws configured to secure the compression plate to the two or more osteogenic structures, wherein each of the plug plate segment and the socket plate segment comprises at least one of the plurality of bone screws; and a spring disposed at the spring retention member, wherein the spring is arranged to bias the socket plate segment toward the plug plate segment and thereby provide active compression between the two or more osteogenic structures.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a spinal compression plate configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration, comprising: a plurality of plate segments including at least a first plate segment and a second plate segment; a spring retention member extending from the first plate segment and defining a spring channel therein; a spring retention member recess defined by the second plate segment and receiving the spring retention member therein, a spring biasing pin disposed at the second plate segment and extending through the spring channel, the spring biasing pin movably coupling the second plate segment to the first plate segment; and a spring disposed within the spring channel and engaging the spring biasing pin, wherein the spring biases the spring biasing pin and the second plate segment toward the first plate segment, thereby biasing the spinal compression plate toward the closed configuration.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a spinal compression plate configured to provide active compression between two or more vertebrae, comprising: a middle segment including a first spring retention member and a second spring retention member extending therefrom; a first plate segment receiving the first spring retention member therein, wherein the first plate segment is translatable about the first spring retention member; a second plate segment receiving the second spring retention member therein, wherein the second plate segment is translatable about the second spring retention member; a first spring housed within the first spring retention member; and a second spring housed within the second spring retention member, wherein the first spring biases the first plate segment toward the middle segment, wherein the second spring biases the second plate segment toward the middle segment.

[0012] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the following DETAILED DESCRIPTION in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

[0014] Figure 1A Exemplary perspective views of some embodiments of a compression plate are depicted;

[0015] Figure 1B Exemplary exploded views of some embodiments of a compression plate are depicted;

[0016] Figure 2A Exemplary top views of some embodiments of a compression plate with a screw in an unlocked configuration are depicted;

[0017] Figure 2B depicting an exemplary top view of some embodiments of a compression plate with a screw in a locked configuration;

[0018] Figure 3A depicting an exemplary perspective view of some embodiments of a compression plate in a closed configuration;

[0019] Figure 3B depicting an exemplary perspective view of some embodiments of a compression plate in an open configuration;

[0020] Figure 4 depicting an exemplary perspective view of some embodiments of a compression plate with a retention clip and in an open configuration;

[0021] Figure 5 depicting an exemplary perspective view of some embodiments of a retention clip;

[0022] Figure 6 depicting an exemplary perspective view of some embodiments of a compression plate in a closed configuration;

[0023] Figure 7A depicting an exemplary top view of some embodiments of a compression plate attached behind a vertebral segment;

[0024] Figure 7B depicting an exemplary top view of some embodiments of a compression plate attached behind a vertebral segment, with some portions ghosted for viewing purposes;

[0025] Figure 8A depicting an exemplary top view of some embodiments of a compression plate with a retention clip attached behind a vertebral segment; and

[0026] Figure 8B depicting an exemplary top view of some embodiments of a compression plate in a closed position attached behind a vertebral segment.

[0027] The drawings are not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The subject matter of embodiments of the present application is described with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements; however, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones described herein, in conjunction with other present or future technologies. Minor changes, such as the addition of a few more steps or the omission of one or more steps, are intended to be within the scope of the application. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments described herein. It is therefore intended that the application not be limited to the specifically described application. The term comprising, not to be limited to the specific embodiments described herein, unless explicitly so described and / or unless the term is explicitly so used, in conjunction with an open-ended claim such as "comprising" as used herein, means "including, but not limited to."

[0029] The following detailed description of embodiments of the application references the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like elements, and builds upon the description of the preceding drawings. These embodiments are intended to be sufficient to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the application without undue experimentation and are intended to be as much a part of this disclosure as any other examples mentioned herein. Other embodiments can be utilized, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the application. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not intended to limit the scope of the application as claimed. The scope of the embodiments of the application is defined only by the appended claims, and any equivalents thereof.

[0030] In this specification, references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment" or "embodiments" mean that a referred subject includes one or more features, which are included in at least one embodiment of the technology. Separate references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment" or "embodiments", do not necessarily mean the same embodiment and are also not mutually exclusive, unless so stated and / or unless it will be readily clear to those skilled in the art from the specification. For example, a feature, structure or action described in one embodiment can also be included in other embodiments, but is not necessarily included. Accordingly, the technology can include various combinations and / or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

[0031] Turning now to the drawings Figures 1A-1B , some embodiments of a compression plate 100 are depicted. Figure 1A Some embodiments of an assembled compression plate 100 are depicted. Figure 1B Exploded views of some embodiments of a compression plate 100 are depicted. Notably, some components, such as one or more locking screw heads 112, are removed for clarity. Figure 1B One or more components of the depicted compression plate can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, including but not limited to titanium, aluminum, vanadium, Ti-6Al-4V (e.g., Ti64), and similar metals and alloys.

[0032] In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 is curved to fit or conform to the curvature of the surface to which it will be attached. For example, the compression plate 100 can be curved about a vertical axis to conform to the curvature of a vertebra. Additionally or alternatively, the compression plate 100 can be curved about a horizontal axis to conform to the curvature of a spinal column. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 is substantially flat.

[0033] In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 can include any number of segments to attach or otherwise secure to any number of vertebrae. For example, in some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes a first plate segment 104a and a second plate segment 104b movably coupled to a middle plate segment 102. In such embodiments, the middle plate segment 102 can be positioned between the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b. For the sake of clarity, the embodiments disclosed herein refer to a first plate segment 104a and a second plate segment 104b. However, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to such a configuration. For example, the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b can be replaced with a single plate segment. Figures 1A-1B The configuration shown, whereby the compression plate 100 includes three plate segments (e.g., the middle plate segment 102, the first plate segment 104a, and the second plate segment 104b). However, some embodiments include more or fewer segments. For example, some embodiments of the compression plate 100 can include two, four, five, six, or more segments. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 can not include a middle plate. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 can include two or more middle plates.

[0034] In some embodiments, the second plate segment 104b includes the same components as the first plate segment 104a. In some embodiments, the second plate segment 104b includes different components than the first plate segment 104a. For the sake of clarity, embodiments are disclosed with the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b having substantially similar components and / or structures; therefore, the same reference numbers are used. However, such a description is not intended to be limiting, as the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b can include different components and / or structures depending on the arrangement of the compression plate 100. Similarly, for the sake of clarity, the middle plate segment 102 is discussed as having some components (e.g., the spring retention member 124) that are not depicted at the first plate segment 104a or the second plate segment 104b. However, the components depicted at the middle plate segment 102 can additionally or alternatively be provided at the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b. Further, the components depicted at the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b can additionally or alternatively be provided at the middle plate segment 102.

[0035] In some embodiments and descriptions herein, a plate segment including a spring retaining member 124 extending therefrom (e.g., intermediate plate segment 102) may be referred to as a plug plate segment. Further, in some embodiments and descriptions herein, a plate segment including a spring retaining member recess 114 (e.g., first plate segment 104a) may be referred to as a socket plate segment. In some embodiments, and as discussed in more detail below, the compression plate 100 may include two plate segments. In such embodiments, the compression plate 100 may include a plug plate segment and a socket plate segment. As will be discussed in more detail below, the spring retaining member recess 114 of the socket plate segment may receive the spring retaining member 124 of the plug plate segment therein. Thus, according to the embodiments disclosed herein, the plug plate segment and the socket plate segment can interact, whereby the spring 122 biases the plug plate segment and the socket plate segment toward a closed configuration (i.e., toward each other).

[0036] In some embodiments, intermediate plate segment 102 includes one or more connectors 128. In some embodiments, first plate segment 104a and / or second plate segment 104b may include one or more connector recesses 130 for receiving one or more connectors 128. One or more connectors 128 may be structurally compatible with one or more connector recesses 130 of the first plate segment 104a and / or second plate segment 104b, such that one or more connectors 128 can be disposed within one or more connector recesses 130.

[0037] In some embodiments, one or more connectors 128 can be partially or fully inserted into one or more connector recesses 130. For example, as Figure 3A As depicted, one or more connectors 128 can be inserted into one or more connector recesses 130, such that the intermediate plate segment 102 abuts the first plate segment 104a at the side where the one or more connectors 128 and the one or more connector recesses 130 are respectively provided. In some embodiments, the side of the intermediate plate segment 102 may be flush with the side of the first plate segment 104a, such that there is no gap between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a (e.g., in...). Figure 3A (In the illustrated closed configuration). In some embodiments, one or more connectors 128 can be partially inserted into one or more connector recesses 130. For example, as Figure 3B As depicted, one or more connectors 128 of the intermediate plate segment 102 may not be fully inserted into one or more connector recesses 130 of the first plate segment 104a. This configuration can create a gap between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a (e.g., in…). Figure 3BThe foregoing description of the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a can be similarly applied to the intermediate plate segment 102 and the second plate segment 104b.

[0038] The one or more connectors 128 can be any shape now known or later developed, including square, rectangular, circular, etc. In some embodiments, as Figure 1B The one or more connectors 128 are depicted as trapezoidal in shape. In some embodiments, as Figure 4 The one or more connectors 128 are depicted as cylindrical in shape. The connection between the one or more connectors 128 and the one or more connector recesses 130 can provide structural stability to the compression plate 100 between the plurality of plate segments (e.g., between the first plate segment 104a and the intermediate plate segment 102).

[0039] Generally, the compression plate 100 is configured to be fastened or secured to a surface, such as a bony tissue. The compression plate 100 can be secured to the surface using one or more fasteners. For example, some example fasteners include, but are not limited to, pedicle screws, nails, rods, bolts, and any other fastener.

[0040] In some embodiments, returning to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the compression plate 100 includes one or more fasteners in the form of bone screws 106. In such embodiments, the one or more bone screws 106 can be attached to any one or more of the intermediate plate segment 102, the first plate segment 104a, and the second plate segment 104b. In some embodiments, the one or more bone screws 106 are threaded bone screws. For example, the one or more bone screws 106 are rotatably driven or otherwise secured within one or more holes 126 on the compression plate 100. As will be discussed below, in some embodiments, the one or more holes 126 can be threaded to allow the one or more bone screws 106 (e.g., locking bone screws 108) to be rotatably attached and locked within the one or more holes 126.

[0041] In some embodiments, the head of the one or more bone screws 106 is of a countersunk type. For example, the head of the one or more bone screws 106 can be of a flat type, an oval type, or a convex type. In other embodiments, the head of the one or more bone screws 106 is of a non-countersunk type. For example, the head of the one or more bone screws 106 can be of a jumbo type, a button type, a cheese type, a recessed type, a flanged type, a hexagonal type, a disc type, a round type, a socket type, a low socket type, a square type, or a web type. Generally, the one or more bone screws 106 can have any drive recess or combination of drive recesses now known or later developed, including slotted, cruciform, hexagonal, internal hexagonal, square, Torx®, wrench, and any similar drive recess.

[0042] In some embodiments, one or more bone screws 106 may be formed of any suitable material for orthopedic applications, such as for use as spinal implants. In some embodiments, one or more bone screws 106 may be formed of any suitable material now known or hereafter developed, including but not limited to titanium, titanium alloys, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium alloys, polyetheretherketone, etc.

[0043] Typically, one or more bone screws 106 may be located at various locations on the compression plate 100 to provide a desired balance between stability and flexibility. In some embodiments, one or more bone screws 106 may be located at corners of the compression plate 100. For example, one or more bone screws 106 may be located near the outer side of the first plate segment 104a (i.e., the side furthest from the intermediate plate segment 102) and the outer side of the second plate segment 104b (i.e., the side furthest from the intermediate plate segment 102). In some embodiments, one or more bone screws 106 may be located near the center of the intermediate plate segment 102.

[0044] The compression plate 100 includes various locking components to prevent the compression plate 100 from loosening from the surface to which it is attached. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes a locking bone screw 108. Typically, the locking bone screw 108 enhances the security of the compression plate 100 by preventing the compression plate 100 from disengaging from the surface to which it is attached. The locking bone screw 108 achieves this by resisting "disengagement," a common problem with screws in dynamic environments, such as the human spine or other bone tissue. In some embodiments, the locking bone screw 108 may be coupled to an intermediate plate segment 102, a first plate segment 104a, a second plate segment 104b, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes a single locking bone screw 108. In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As depicted (in the discussion below), the compression plate 100 includes more than one locking bone screw 108. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 does not include a locking bone screw.

[0045] Various devices exist to prevent the locking bone screw 108 from exiting the corresponding hole 126 on the compression plate 100. In some embodiments, the threaded locking bone screw head 120 of the locking bone screw 108 prevents the locking bone screw 108 from exiting. For example, the threaded locking bone screw head 120 may have a different thread type than the thread located inside the corresponding hole 126 of the compression plate 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the thread of the threaded locking bone screw head 120 may be in a first direction, and the thread inside the hole 126 may be in a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite directions. By providing a mismatch in thread type between the threaded locking bone screw head 120 and the corresponding hole 126, the locking bone screw 108 may not be able to loosen or exit from the hole 126. In such a configuration, the threaded locking bone screw head 120 enters the hole 126 when the locking bone screw 108 is rotated into a surface (e.g., a vertebra). Because the thread type between the threaded locking bone screw head 120 and the hole 126 is opposite, when the threaded locking bone screw head 120 rotates in the hole 126, the thread generates torsional friction, so that once the locking bone screw 108 is fully driven, the threaded locking bone screw head 120 is restricted in the hole 126, thereby preventing rotation in the opposite direction.

[0046] In some embodiments, the thread on the shank of the locking bone screw 108 may be a different thread type than that of the corresponding hole 126 on the compression plate 100. The mismatched threads on the shank of the locking bone screw 108 and the corresponding hole 126 can form a frictional fit. The thread on the shank of the locking bone screw 108 can be formed by SPIRALOCK thread forming to create a frictional fit between the bone screw 108 and the corresponding hole 126. In such embodiments, as described above, the mismatched threads between the shank of the locking bone screw 108 and the hole 126 will function in a substantially similar manner to the mismatch between the threaded locking bone screw head 120 and the hole 126. Similarly, once rotated into the hole 126, it will prevent the locking bone screw 108 from exiting the hole 126. In some embodiments, the locking bone screw 108 and the hole 126 on the compression plate 100 are cold-welded together. For example, the locking bone screw 108 and the hole 126 may include mismatched threads such that they frictionally lock together when the locking bone screw 108 is driven into the hole 126.

[0047] As discussed above with respect to one or more bone screws 106, the locking bone screw 108 may be formed of any suitable material now known or hereafter developed, including but not limited to titanium and titanium alloys. Furthermore, the locking bone screw 108 may have any suitable head type and drive recess now known or hereafter developed.

[0048] In some embodiments, locking bone screws 108 and corresponding holes 126 are located on the intermediate plate segment 102, the first plate segment 104a, and / or the second plate segment 104b. As discussed above with respect to one or more bone screws 106, the locking bone screws 108 and corresponding holes 126 can be located on the outer end of the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b. In other embodiments, the locking bone screws 108 can be located on the intermediate plate segment 102, such as to replace Figure 1A one or more bone screws 106.

[0049] Turning now to Figures 2A-2B , one or more locking screw heads 112 are depicted. In some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes additional or alternative mechanisms for preventing the compression plate 100 from loosening from the surface to which it is fixed. For example, in some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes one or more locking screw heads 112. As discussed above with respect to one or more bone screws 106, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can be formed of any suitable material now known or hereafter developed, including but not limited to titanium and titanium alloys. Further, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can have any suitable head style and drive recess now known or hereafter developed.

[0050] In some embodiments, the one or more locking screw heads 112 are located within the one or more screw head recesses 110. In some embodiments, the one or more locking screw heads 112 and the one or more screw head recesses 110 are located at the top surface of the compression plate 100 and adjacent to the one or more holes 126 and the one or more bone screws 106.

[0051] In some embodiments, the one or more locking screw heads 112 prevent the one or more bone screws 106 from backing out of the holes 126 by covering the one or more bone screws 106. Thus, if the one or more bone screws 106 are subjected to an outward force relative to the fixed surface, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can secure the one or more bone screws 106 within the holes 126 and prevent the one or more bone screws 106 from backing out therefrom.

[0052] Figure 2AOne or more locking screw heads 112 are depicted in an unlocked configuration. Each of the one or more locking screw heads 112 can include a protrusion 136 that extends outwardly toward the hole 126. As will be discussed below, the shape of the one or more locking screw heads 112 and the protrusion 136 is such that, when rotated, the protrusion 136 covers the hole 126. When in the unlocked configuration, the protrusion 136 of the one or more locking screw heads 112 does not overlap the head of the one or more bone screws 106. As a result, the one or more bone screws 106 can be loosened and removed from the hole 126 and / or surface without interference from the one or more locking screw heads 112.

[0053] Figure 2B One or more locking screw heads 112 are depicted in a locked position. In the locked position, the protrusion 136 of the one or more locking screw heads 112 overlaps the head of the one or more bone screws 106. As a result, the one or more locking screw heads 112 will interfere with and prevent the one or more bone screws 106 from being loosened or removed from the hole in which they are seated. In some embodiments, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can be fixed in the locked position once rotated to the locked position.

[0054] While not depicted herein, additional anti-backout mechanisms can be incorporated with or otherwise used with the compression plate 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the compression plate 100 includes a slidable member that, once driven into the surface, partially or completely covers the hole 126 and the one or more bone screws 106. In a manner similar to the one or more locking screw heads 112, the slidable member can prevent the one or more bone screws 106 from backing out of the surface. In some embodiments, once covering the hole 126 and the one or more bone screws 106, the slidable member can be fixed in the locked position.

[0055] The various anti-backout mechanisms disclosed herein can be used individually or in combination in embodiments of the compression plate 100. For example, as shown, the compression plate 100 can have both locking bone screws 108 and one or more locking screw heads 112. In some embodiments, such as shown, the compression plate 100 can have at least one locking bone screw 108, but not a locking screw head 112. Thus, the compression plate 100 can have any suitable combination or arrangement of the above-described anti-backout mechanisms to prevent the compression plate 100 from becoming loose or backing out. Figure 1A Figure 4 Thus, the compression plate 100 can have any suitable combination or arrangement of the above-described anti-backout mechanisms to prevent the compression plate 100 from becoming loose or backing out.

[0056] Thus, the compression plate 100 can have any suitable combination or arrangement of the above-described anti-backout mechanisms to prevent the compression plate 100 from becoming loose or backing out. Figure 1B ​The compression plate 100 may include at least one spring 122 that provides compressive force to the compression plate 100. For example, the use of at least one spring 122 in the compression plate 100 allows the compression plate 100 to provide active compression between the surfaces to which the compression plate 100 is attached (e.g., between two or more vertebrae). As discussed above, biasing two or more bone structures together (i.e., active compression) enhances tissue ossification, thereby increasing the strength and density of the bone structure.

[0057] Spring 122 can be formed from any suitable material now known or developed in the future, including metals, silicon, plastics, etc. In some embodiments, spring 122 comprises a nickel-titanium alloy (e.g., nitinol). Nitinol is particularly useful for the formation of spring 122 due to its superelastic properties. Such properties allow spring 122 to undergo significant deformation (e.g., compression) while still returning to its original shape. Furthermore, since nitinol will maintain the shape of spring 122 for a long period of time (e.g., several years), spring 122 will maintain stable active compression between the components of compression plate 100 and thus between the attached bone structures throughout the entire period of implantation of compression plate 100.

[0058] Spring 122 can be received within a spring channel 134 defined by spring retaining member 124. Spring channel 134 provides a cavity in which spring 122 can move along a single axis (e.g., along a vertical axis, such as...). Figure 7B (The depiction) involves compression and expansion. For example... Figure 1B As shown, the spring retaining member 124 extends outward from the intermediate plate segment 102 and toward the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b. Again, as described above, the exemplary illustration depicts three segments of the compression plate 100 (i.e., the first plate segment 104a, the intermediate plate segment 102, and the second plate segment 104b). However, additional segments (e.g., an additional intermediate plate) and fewer segments (e.g., the absence of the intermediate plate segment 102 or the second plate segment 104b) may be used with the compression plate 100 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In these embodiments, the spring retaining member 124 may extend from any segment required to accommodate the spring 122 and provide active compression between the segments.

[0059] In some embodiments, the ends of the springs 122 are attached to or within the spring channel 134 of the spring retention member 124. For example, the ends of the springs 122 can be coupled to the walls defining the spring channel 134 using soldering, welding, adhesive, etc. In another example, the ends of the springs 122 can be coupled to the spring channel 134 using pins similar to the spring biasing pins 116 discussed below. In some embodiments, based on the housing and structure of the compression plate 100, the springs 122 are retained within the spring channel 134 without being attached to the interior of the spring retention member 124.

[0060] In some embodiments, the spring retention member 124 is disposed within a spring retention member recess 114 provided at the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b. For example, the spring retention member 124 can be disposed within the spring retention member recess 114 such that the sides of the intermediate plate segment 102 are flush or substantially flush with the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b. Similar to the description above regarding the spring retention member 124, in embodiments where the compression plate 100 has two, four, or more segments, the spring retention member recess 114 can be provided on any segment necessary to receive the spring retention member 124 and house the springs 122 to provide active compression between segments. For example, in some embodiments, additional intermediate plates (not depicted) can be included in the compression plate 100. In such embodiments, the additional intermediate plates can include a spring retention member recess provided at one end to engage with the spring retention member 124 of the intermediate plate segment 102. Further, the additional intermediate plates can include a spring retention member provided at an end opposite the spring retention member recess to engage with the spring retention member recess 114 of the second plate segment 104b.

[0061] In some embodiments, the spring retention member 124 can provide structural support for the connection between segments of the compression plate 100 (e.g., the first plate segment 104a, the second plate segment 104b, and the intermediate plate segment 102). In such embodiments, the spring retention member 124 extending from the intermediate plate segment 102 can be arranged to be disposed within the spring retention member recess 114 located at an adjacent segment. Based on the shape of the spring retention member 124 and the spring retention member recess 114, disposing the spring retention member 124 within the spring retention member recess 114 (as shown) can provide structural stability to the compression plate 100. For example, as depicted, the spring retention member 124 and the spring retention member recess 114 have a rectangular shape. As such, when the spring retention member 124 is received within the spring retention member recess 114, torsional forces between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a are excluded. Figure 3A

[0062] ​In some embodiments, the shape of the spring retention member 124 and the spring retention member recess 114 can be adjusted based on the desired structural integrity of the compression plate 100. For example, in some embodiments, the spring retention member 124 and the spring retention member recess 114 can have a circular shape, thereby allowing for rotation between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a.

[0063] In some embodiments, the spring biasing pin 116 is coupled to the spring 122 at one end. In some embodiments, the end of the spring 122 that is attached to the spring biasing pin 116 is opposite the end of the spring 122 that contacts or couples the wall of the spring channel 134. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the contact and / or coupling of the spring 122 at both ends (one at the wall of the spring channel 134 and one at the spring biasing pin 116) causes active compression of two corresponding segments (e.g., the first plate segment 104a against the intermediate plate segment 102).

[0064] In some embodiments, the spring biasing pin 116 is attached to the plate segment (e.g., the first plate segment 104a) at the pin retention hole 132 extending from the first plate segment 104a (as Figure 1B depicted). In some embodiments, both the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b include a pin retention hole 132 for receiving and coupling the spring biasing pin 116. The spring biasing pin 116 can be coupled to the corresponding pin retention hole 132 using any technique now known or later developed, including but not limited to pin fixing, welding, and similar fastening techniques.

[0065] Referring to Figure 1B , the process of coupling the plate segments (e.g., coupling the first plate segment 104a to the intermediate plate segment 102) is briefly discussed. In some embodiments, the spring 122 is placed within the spring channel 134. In some embodiments, the spring 122 is partially compressed prior to being placed within the spring channel 134. For example, the length of the spring 122 is greater than the length of the spring channel 134. In such embodiments, the spring 122 can constantly bias the compression plate 100 toward the closed configuration, as discussed below. In some embodiments, the length of the spring 122 is approximately the same as the length of the spring channel 134, and thus is not compressed prior to being placed within the spring channel 134.

[0066] In some embodiments, the middle plate segment 102 is translated toward the first plate segment 104a. During translation, the spring retention member 124 is received within the spring retention member recess 114. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors 128 extending from the middle plate segment 102 are received within the one or more connector recesses 130 of the first plate segment 104a. Once the spring retention member 124 is fully received within the spring retention member recess 114, the pin retention hole 132 is disposed over the proximal end (i.e., the end closest to the middle plate segment 102) of the spring channel 134. In some embodiments, the spring biasing pin 116 is inserted through and past the pin retention hole 132 such that the spring biasing pin 116 extends through the spring channel 134. In some embodiments, after the spring biasing pin 116 is inserted through the pin retention hole 132 and the spring channel 134, the spring biasing pin 116 is coupled to the pin retention hole 132. In some embodiments, the spring 122 is coupled to the spring biasing pin 116. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1B As depicted, the spring 122 can include a shape configured to conform to the spring biasing pin 116.

[0067] Similar steps to those described above can be used to couple the second plate segment 104b to the middle plate segment 102. The connection of the second plate segment 104b to the middle plate segment 102 can occur before, simultaneously with, or after the connection of the first plate segment 104a to the middle plate segment 102. Moreover, as previously described, in embodiments in which the compression plate 100 includes fewer or more segments than depicted, fewer or more steps can be taken to connect fewer or more segments.

[0068] By coupling the spring biasing pin 116 to the pin retention hole 132, the spring 122 biases the first plate segment 104a toward the middle plate segment 102 by exerting a force against the spring biasing pin 116 at one end and a force against the spring channel 134 at the other end. For example, as the first plate segment 104a moves away from the middle plate segment 102, the spring 122 is compressed. In some embodiments, the spring 122 will bias or otherwise press against the spring biasing pin 116 such that the first plate segment 104a is pressed toward the middle plate segment 102. Such movement between the middle plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a is discussed in more detail below in connection with the open configuration (e.g., see Figure 3B ) and the closed configuration (e.g., see Figure 3A ) of the compression plate 100.

[0069] Figure 3AThe compression plate 100 is depicted in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, when the compression plate 100 is in the closed configuration, the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b abut the sides of the middle plate segment 102. In such embodiments, the one or more connectors 128 of the middle plate segment 102 are fully seated within the corresponding one or more connector recesses 130 of the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b.

[0070] Generally, when the compression plate 100 is in the closed configuration, the displacement of the spring 122 from its equilibrium position (i.e., length) is less relative to the displacement of the spring 122 from its equilibrium position when the compression plate 100 is in the open position relative to the equation F = -kx, where F is the force exerted by the spring, k is the spring constant, and x is the spring displacement from its equilibrium position. In some embodiments, when the compression plate 100 is in the closed configuration, the spring 122 is approximately at its equilibrium position. Thus, when the spring 122 is approximately at its equilibrium position, it provides little or no force to the middle plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a or the second plate segment 104b. In other embodiments, when the compression plate 100 is in the closed configuration, the spring 122 is displaced from its equilibrium position by a non-zero amount, providing some force to compress the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b toward the middle plate segment 102.

[0071] Figure 3B The compression plate 100 is depicted in the open configuration. When in the open configuration, the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b do not contact the sides of the middle plate segment 102. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors 128 of the middle plate segment 102 are partially seated within the corresponding one or more connector recesses 130 of the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b.

[0072] Generally, when the compression plate 100 is in the open configuration, the spring 122 can be compressed relative to the length of the spring 122 when the compression plate 100 is in the closed configuration. More specifically, the spring 122 can be displaced further from its equilibrium position when the compression plate 100 is in the open position relative to the displacement of the spring 122 when the compression plate 100 is in the closed position. Thus, the force exerted by the spring 122 when the compression plate 100 is in the open position can be greater than when the compression plate 100 is in the closed position.

[0073] In other words, as the distance between the middle plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a or the second plate segment 104b increases, the force exerted by the spring 122 increases. The force exerted by the spring 122 can bias the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b toward the middle plate segment 102 (e.g., closer to the equilibrium position of the spring 122). Thus, the spring 122 can always provide a force such that the first plate segment 104a and the second plate segment 104b are biased toward the middle plate segment 102 when the compression plate 100 is attached to a dynamic surface. This can prove advantageous because the spring 122 can allow the compression plate 100 to provide active compression to the dynamic surface to which it is attached.

[0074] In some embodiments, the spring 122 can be configured to provide a smaller or larger compression force to the compression plate 100. For example, one or both of the equilibrium length and / or the spring force of the spring 122 can be changed to adjust the compression force based on the application of the compression plate 100. In some embodiments, the spring 122 can be configured to compress more easily and thus allow the compression plate 100 to transition to the open configuration with less force. In some embodiments, the spring 122 can be configured to resist compression more strongly and thus discourage the compression plate 100 from transitioning to the open configuration. The differences in the spring 122 and thus the corresponding compression force can be determined based on the application of the compression plate 100. Additionally, in some embodiments that use two or more springs 122, the two or more springs 122 can include different compression forces. For example, in the case of vertebrae, it can be advantageous to allow two vertebrae to separate by reducing the compression force of the middle spring 122 (e.g., the spring 122 between the second plate segment 104b and the middle plate segment 102). Similarly, it can be advantageous to prevent two vertebrae from separating by increasing the compression force of the middle spring 122 (e.g., the spring 122 between the first plate segment 104a and the middle plate segment 102). Thus, the compression plate 100 has strong adaptability and can be flexibly adjusted according to downstream applications.

[0075] Now turning to Figure 4 , some embodiments of the compression plate 100 are depicted. In some embodiments, a retention clip 140 can be attached to the compression plate 100. The retention clip 140 can retain the compression plate 100 in the open configuration, as Figure 4Further, the retaining clip 140 can be used to insert and attach the compression plate 100 to a surface. For example, the retaining clip 140 can hold the compression plate 100 in an open configuration while one or more bone screws 106 are screwed into an adjacent surface (e.g., a vertebra). Additionally, in some embodiments, the retaining clip 140 can maintain a space between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the various plate segments (e.g., the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b) so that spinal graft material can be injected into the intermediate space. Such an ability to inject bone graft material can be advantageous in the application of the compression plate 100 in cases where there is damage between the attached bony structures. For example, in some embodiments, the compression plate 100 can be used in conjunction with one or more intervertebral fusion cages. In such embodiments, injecting bone graft material at the site of the intervertebral fusion cage (e.g., between two vertebrae) can significantly assist in the healing of the area.

[0076] In addition to providing a space for injecting material, such as bone graft material, holding the compression plate 100 in an open configuration during insertion and attachment can provide additional benefits in some cases. For example, by attaching the compression plate 100 to bony structures (e.g., two or more vertebrae) while in an open configuration, upon removal of the retaining clip 140, the compression plate 100 immediately provides a compressive force to the attached bony structures by transitioning toward a closed configuration, as Figure 6 Such a procedure can assist, for example, in retaining an intervertebral fusion cage between two or more vertebrae. However, it is worth noting that the retaining clip 140 can sometimes be removed from the compression plate 100 in addition to after the compression plate 100 is attached to bony structures.

[0077] As Figure 5 illustrated, the retaining clip 140 can include one or more clip arms 142 and a clip hole 144. In some embodiments, the one or more clip arms 142 can be configured to attach (e.g., snap, click, etc.) to the spring retention member 124, as Figure 4 illustrated. In some embodiments, the one or more clip arms 142 are not attached to a component of the compression plate 100.

[0078] In some embodiments, the one or more clip arms 142 are configured to maintain a space between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a and / or the second plate segment 104b. In such embodiments, the width of the one or more clip arms 142 is predetermined to maintain a desired compression and equilibrium displacement of the spring 122. Thus, when the compression plate 100 is attached to a surface using one or more bone screws 106, the retaining clip 140 can then be removed and the desired equilibrium displacement and compression of the spring 122 is achieved.

[0079] In some embodiments, the clip holes 144 can be configured to receive fasteners. In such embodiments, the clip holes 144 can receive fasteners to provide stability to the compression plate 100 during insertion and attachment to a surface. For example, the middle plate segment 102 can be stabilized by attaching fasteners through the clip holes 144 and holes in the middle plate segment 102 to an underlying surface. The fasteners can then be removed after the middle plate segment 102 and the compression plate 100 as a whole are stabilized with one or more bone screws 106.

[0080] In some embodiments, the retaining clip 140 can be formed of any suitable material now known or later developed, including but not limited to a polymer, titanium, a titanium alloy, etc. In some embodiments, the retaining clip 140 is formed of a bioabsorbable material, such as a bioabsorbable polymer. In such embodiments, as Figure 8A depicted, the retaining clip 140 can retain the insertion for resorption, allowing the compression plate 100 to begin active compression.

[0081] Figures 7A-7B Example applications of embodiments of the compression plate 100 are depicted. Figure 7A Some embodiments of the compression plate 100 attached to vertebrae are depicted. Figure 7B Similar to Figure 7A where some components are ghosted to provide a visual depiction of internal components such as the spring 122, the spring retaining member 124, and the one or more connectors 128. Accordingly, for a better understanding of the following description, concurrent reference to Figures 7A-7B is advised.

[0082] In some embodiments, the locking bone screws 108 are fastened to the compression plate 100 prior to fastening the compression plate 100 to a surface. For example, as discussed above with respect to Figure 1A the locking bone screws 108 can be fixed within corresponding holes prior to attaching the compression plate 100 to a surface. In other embodiments, the locking bone screws 108 are spun into and fixed within corresponding threaded holes at the same time the compression plate 100 is attached to a surface. For example, as discussed above, the threads of the threaded locking bone screw head 120 can not align with threads disposed within a corresponding hole. Accordingly, the threaded locking bone screw head 120 can cold weld to a corresponding hole while the locking bone screw 108 is rotatably attached to a surface (e.g., the third vertebra 200c).

[0083] As noted above, the compression plate 100 can be beneficial in various spinal applications. For example, the compression plate 100 can be beneficial when used as a cervical plate, as Figures 7A-8BThe first plate segment 104a can be attached to the first vertebra 200a, the intermediate plate segment 102 can be attached to the second vertebra 200b, and the second plate segment 104b can be attached to the third vertebra 200c in some embodiments. In some embodiments and as described above, more or fewer intermediate plates and / or plate segments can be attached to more or fewer vertebrae.

[0084] During attachment of the compression plate 100 to two or more vertebrae, the associated one or more bone screws 106 can be rotatably attached to the corresponding vertebrae. In some embodiments, the one or more bone screws 106 can be sequentially attached to the corresponding vertebrae. In some embodiments, multiple screws of the one or more bone screws 106 can be rotatably attached simultaneously. In some embodiments, after the one or more bone screws 106 are attached to the corresponding vertebrae, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can be actuated to prevent any of the one or more bone screws 106 from backing out, as described above with reference to Figures 2A-2B described. For example, as Figure 7A depicted, the one or more locking screw heads 112 are rotated such that the protrusions 136 of the locking screw heads 112 extend outwardly over the bone screw heads 118. In some embodiments, the one or more locking screw heads 112 can be locked or otherwise held in this position.

[0085] When the two or more vertebrae flex apart (e.g., the intervertebral distance increases), the springs 122 are compressed within the spring channels 134 by the movement of the spring biasing pins 116 away from the intermediate plate segment 102. As discussed above, such movement increases the force exerted by the springs 122 on the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first plate segment 104a or the second plate segment 104b. By increasing the force exerted by the springs 122 on the respective plates, the segments of the compression plate 100 (e.g., the first plate segment 104a and the intermediate plate segment 102) are actively compressed together, and thus the attached vertebrae (e.g., the first vertebra 200a and the second vertebra 200b) are biased together. In other words, the springs 122 bias the spring biasing pins 116, thereby exerting a force that continuously pushes the first segment 104a and the second segment 104b toward the intermediate plate segment 102 over the entire range of travel of the first segment 104a and the second segment 104b of the compression plate 100. The range of travel of the first segment 104a and the second segment 104b is defined by the distance of the segments from the intermediate plate segment 102. When the first segment 104a and the second segment 104b contact the intermediate plate segment 102, the springs 122 continue to exert a force to push the first segment 104a and the second segment 104b toward the intermediate plate segment 102. Such active compression provided by the compression plate 100 allows for dynamic spinal movement that would not otherwise exist in a rigid cervical plate.

[0086] Figure 8A Some embodiments of a compression plate 100 attached to vertebrae and utilizing a retaining clip 140 are depicted. Figure 8B Some embodiments of a compression plate 100 attached to vertebrae after removal of a retaining clip 140 are depicted. Turning first to Figure 8A , the compression plate 100 is held in an open configuration by the retaining clip 140. As discussed above with respect to Figures 4-6 , the retaining clip 140 can allow for a particular width to be maintained between the intermediate plate segment 102 and the first and second plate segments 104a, 104b during installation. In some embodiments, the distance between the segments of the compression plate 100 as held by the retaining clip 140 can assist in attaching the compression plate 100 to the vertebrae by mimicking the intervertebral space. In some embodiments, the distance between the segments of the compression plate 100 as held by the retaining clip 140 can mimic the distance between the vertebrae between which an intervertebral cage is implanted. In some embodiments, the distance between the segments of the compression plate 100 as held by the retaining clip 140 can allow for injection of one or more materials between the corresponding intervertebral spaces. As by comparison Figure 8A and Figure 8B Best shown, in some embodiments, the distance between the segments of the compression plate 100 as held by the retaining clip 140 can allow for increased compressive force to be applied to the corresponding vertebrae after removal of the retaining clip 140.

[0087] Turning now to Figure 8B , some embodiments of a compression plate 100 in a closed configuration after removal of a retaining clip 140 are shown. As discussed above with respect to Figures 4-6 , the retaining clip 140 can be removed after attachment of one or more bone screws 106 and / or locking bone screws 108 to the vertebrae. Also as discussed above, by virtue of the compression plate 100 being compressed within the spring channel 134 by the installation spring 122, when in the closed configuration, the installation spring 122 will exert a greater compressive force between the segments of the compression plate 100 (e.g., the first plate segment 104a and the intermediate plate segment 102) than would be exerted by virtue of attaching the compression plate 100 without the installation spring 122 compressed (i.e., attaching the compression plate 100 to the vertebrae when in the closed configuration, such as Figure 7A is shown). Thus, after removal of the retaining clip 140, the compression plate 100 provides active compression between the first vertebra 200a and the second vertebra 200b and between the second vertebra 200b and the third vertebra 200c.

[0088] The above-mentioned features, as well as the following claimed features, can be combined in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following examples demonstrate some possible, non-limiting combinations:

[0089] (A1) A compression plate configured to provide active compression of two or more bony structures, the compression plate comprising: a plug plate segment comprising a spring retention member extending therefrom; a socket plate segment movably coupled to the plug plate segment and receiving the spring retention member therein; a plurality of bone screws configured to secure the compression plate to the two or more bony structures, wherein each of the plug plate segment and the socket plate segment comprises at least one of the plurality of bone screws; and a spring disposed at the spring retention member, wherein the spring is arranged to bias the socket plate segment toward the plug plate segment and thereby provide active compression between the two or more bony structures.

[0090] (A2) The compression plate of (A1), wherein the plurality of bone screws comprises a locking bone screw configured to couple to the compression plate upon driving the locking bone screw into one of the two or more bony structures.

[0091] (A3) The compression plate of (A1) or (A2), wherein the locking bone screw comprises a threaded head having threads in a first direction, and wherein a hole disposed at the compression plate and receiving the locking bone screw has threads in a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being misaligned.

[0092] (A4) The compression plate of any one of (A1) to (A3), further comprising: one or more locking screw heads disposed at each of the plurality of bone screws, wherein the one or more locking screw heads are arranged to prevent withdrawal of the plurality of bone screws once driven into the two or more bony structures.

[0093] (A5) The compression plate of any one of (A1) to (A4), further comprising: at least one connector extending from the plug plate segment; and at least one connector recess disposed at the socket plate segment, the at least one connector recess receiving the at least one connector.

[0094] (A6) The compression plate of any one of (A1) to (A5), wherein the spring comprises nitinol.

[0095] (B1) A spinal compression plate configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the spinal compression plate comprising: a plurality of plate segments including at least a first plate segment and a second plate segment; a spring retention member extending from the first plate segment and defining a spring passage therein; a spring retention member recess defined by the second plate segment and receiving the spring retention member therein, a spring biasing pin disposed at the second plate segment and extending through the spring passage, the spring biasing pin movably coupling the second plate segment to the first plate segment; and a spring disposed within the spring passage and engaging the spring biasing pin, wherein the spring biases the spring biasing pin and the second plate segment toward the first plate segment, thereby biasing the spinal compression plate toward the closed configuration.

[0096] (B2) The spinal compression plate of (B1), further comprising: a retention clip configured to retain the spinal compression plate in the open configuration.

[0097] (B3) The spinal compression plate of (B1) or (B2), wherein the first plate segment comprises one or more connectors, wherein the one or more connectors are received within one or more first connector recesses at the second plate segment.

[0098] (B4) The spinal compression plate of any one of (B1) to (B3), wherein the spring is partially compressed when the spinal compression plate is in the closed configuration.

[0099] (B5) The spinal compression plate of any one of (B1) to (B4), further comprising: a plurality of bone screws extending from each of the first plate segment and the second plate segment, the plurality of bone screws arranged to secure the spinal compression plate to two or more vertebrae.

[0100] (B6) The spinal compression plate of any one of (B1) to (B5), wherein at least one bone screw of the plurality of bone screws comprises a locking bone screw configured to couple to the spinal compression plate once secured to a vertebra.

[0101] (B7) The spinal compression plate of any one of (B1) to (B6), further comprising: one or more locking screw heads disposed at each of the plurality of bone screws, wherein the one or more locking screw heads are arranged to prevent the plurality of bone screws from backing out once driven into the two or more vertebrae.

[0102] (B8) The spinal compression plate of any one of (B1) to (B7), wherein each locking screw head of the one or more locking screw heads comprises a protrusion configured to rotatably extend over each bone screw of the plurality of bone screws.

[0103] (C1) A spinal compression plate configured to provide active compression between two or more vertebrae, comprising: a middle segment comprising a first spring retention member and a second spring retention member extending therefrom; a first plate segment receiving the first spring retention member therein, wherein the first plate segment is translatable about the first spring retention member; a second plate segment receiving the second spring retention member therein, wherein the second plate segment is translatable about the second spring retention member; a first spring housed within the first spring retention member; and a second spring housed within the second spring retention member, wherein the first spring biases the first plate segment toward the middle segment, wherein the second spring biases the second plate segment toward the middle segment.

[0104] (C2) The spinal compression plate of (C1), wherein the spinal compression plate is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the first plate segment and the second plate segment abut the middle segment in the closed configuration.

[0105] (C3) The spinal compression plate of (C1) or (C2), wherein each of the first spring and the second spring is partially compressed when the spinal compression plate is in the closed configuration.

[0106] (C4) The spinal compression plate of any one of (C1) to (C3), further comprising: a removable retention clip comprising a first clip arm and a second clip arm extending therefrom and configured to retain the spinal compression plate in an open configuration, wherein the first clip arm is disposed between the first plate segment and the middle segment, wherein the second clip arm is disposed between the second plate segment and the middle segment.

[0107] (C5) The spinal compression plate of any one of (C1) to (C4), further comprising: a plurality of bone screws arranged to secure the spinal compression plate to at least two vertebrae.

[0108] (C6) The spinal compression plate of any one of (C1) to (C5), wherein the removable retention clip is configured to be removed after the spinal compression plate is secured to the at least two vertebrae.

[0109] Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the scope of the claims below. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but embodiments of the application can be applied to other types of computing devices as well. Embodiments of the application have been described as they might be applied to a personal computer, but

Claims

1. An implantable orthopedic compression plate configured to provide compression to two or more bone structures, said implantable orthopedic compression plate comprising: The plug plate segment includes a spring retaining member; At least one bearing plate segment in which the spring retaining member can be received; Multiple bone screws are configured to secure the implanted orthopedic compression plate to the two or more bone structures. Each of the plug plate segment and the at least one socket plate segment includes at least one bone screw from the plurality of bone screws; and A spring, which is disposed within the spring retaining member, The spring is arranged to bias the at least one socket plate segment toward the plug plate segment.

2. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 1, wherein the spring retaining member defines a spring channel in which the spring is disposed.

3. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 2, wherein the spring is arranged to compress and expand along an axis within the spring channel.

4. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 2, further comprising: A spring biasing structure is disposed at the at least one socket plate segment and extends through the spring channel, the spring biasing structure being movably connected to the plug plate segment and the at least one socket plate segment.

5. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 4, wherein the first end of the spring is attached to the wall within the spring channel.

6. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 5, wherein the spring biasing structure is attached to a second end of the spring, the first end being opposite to the second end, such that the spring biases the plug segment and the at least one socket segment together by applying force to the wall attached to the first end of the spring and the spring biasing structure attached to the second end of the spring.

7. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 4, wherein the spring is held within the spring channel such that the spring can apply force to a first wall positioned at a first end of the spring and a spring biasing structure positioned at a second end of the spring.

8. An implantable orthopedic compression plate configured to switch between an open configuration and a closed configuration, said implantable orthopedic compression plate comprising: Multiple plate segments, including at least a first plate segment and a second plate segment; A spring retaining member extends from the first plate segment; A spring retaining member recess defined by the second plate segment, wherein the spring retaining member recess receives the spring retaining member therein; and A spring, which is disposed within the spring retaining member, The spring biases the second plate segment toward the first plate segment, causing the implantable orthopedic compression plate to bias toward the closed configuration.

9. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 8, further comprising: A retaining clip includes a plurality of clamping arms that are arranged to retain the implanted orthopedic compression plate in the open configuration when the plurality of clamping arms are attached to the plurality of plate segments.

10. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 8, further comprising: Multiple bone screws are configured to secure the implanted orthopedic compression plate to the environment.

11. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 10, further comprising: Multiple protrusions are arranged to at least partially overlap with the multiple bone screws, thereby preventing the multiple bone screws from dislodging from the environment.

12. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 8, wherein the spring includes a balance position in which the spring is displaced further away from the balance position when the implantable orthopedic compression plate is in the open configuration than when the implantable orthopedic compression plate is in the closed configuration.

13. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 8, further comprising: One or more connectors extending from the first plate segment; and One or more connector recesses within the second plate segment, wherein when the implanted orthopedic compression plate is in the closed configuration, the one or more connectors are completely seated within the one or more connector recesses.

14. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 13, wherein when the implantable orthopedic compression plate is in the open configuration, the one or more connectors are partially located within the one or more connector recesses.

15. An implantable orthopedic compression plate configured to provide active compression between three or more bone structures, comprising: The intermediate segment includes a first spring retaining member and a second spring retaining member extending therefrom; A first plate segment, in which the first spring retaining member is received, the first plate segment including the first spring; and The second plate segment, which receives the second spring retaining member therein, includes the second spring. The first spring biases the first plate segment toward the middle segment, and the second spring biases the second plate segment toward the middle segment. When the implanted orthopedic compression plate is in a closed configuration, each of the first spring and the second spring is at least partially displaced from its equilibrium position.

16. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 15, further comprising: Multiple bone screws extend through each of the intermediate segment, the first plate segment, and the second plate segment and secure the implanted orthopedic compression plate to the three or more bone structures.

17. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 16, wherein the plurality of bone screws comprises: A locking bone screw having a first thread type is disposed in a hole in the implantable orthopedic compression plate, the hole having a second thread type, the first thread type and the second thread type being mismatched.

18. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 17, wherein the first thread type is located on the head portion of the locking bone screw, such that the head portion of the locking bone screw prevents the locking bone screw from exiting at least one of the three or more bone structures.

19. The implantable orthopedic compression plate of claim 15, wherein the closed configuration includes the first plate segment and the second plate segment adjacent to the intermediate segment.

20. The implantable orthopedic compression plate according to claim 15, further comprising: The removable retainer clip includes: A first clamping arm is disposed between the first plate segment and the intermediate segment; and The second clamping arm is disposed between the second plate segment and the intermediate segment. The removal of the removable retainer clip initiates movement of the implanted orthopedic compression plate toward the closed configuration.

Images