Intervertebral implants

Abstract

In order to improve an intervertebral implant for insertion into an intervertebral disc space between two adjacent cones of the human or animal spine, it is proposed that the intervertebral implant has an upper implant side defining a first vertebral body abutment surface for abutting against a first vertebral body and a lower implant side defining a second vertebral body abutment surface for abutting against a second vertebral body, and that so that the intervertebral implant has sufficient stability, the intervertebral implant comprises a frame structure with at least two support elements extending from the upper implant side to the lower implant side, the at least two support elements defining support element longitudinal axes running transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the first and / or second vertebral body abutment surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an intervertebral implant for insertion into an intervertebral disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies of the spine of a human or an animal. The intervertebral implant has an upper side of the implant defining a first vertebral body abutment face abutting against a first vertebral body and a lower side of the implant defining a second vertebral body abutment face abutting against a second vertebral body.

Background Art

[0002] Intervertebral implants of the type first described are known in various embodiments. They are inserted into the intervertebral disc space as an alternative to a damaged intervertebral disc associated between two vertebral bodies in order to connect adjacent vertebral bodies and thereby stiffen the spine portion including the two vertebral bodies.

[0003] Large forces applied by the adjacent vertebral bodies on the upper side and the lower side of the implant act on the intervertebral implant. Therefore, in order to maintain the height of the intervertebral disc space, i.e., the distance between adjacent vertebral bodies, it is important that the intervertebral implant has sufficient stability so as not to damage the nerves running through the spinal canal. In particular, in the case of open-pored structures used as intervertebral implants, there is a relatively easy risk that the intervertebral implant is deformed as a whole by compression, thereby making it impossible to maintain the height of the intervertebral disc space. This undesirable result may damage not only the nerves running through the spinal canal but also the blood vessels and nerves that appear between the vertebral bodies.

[0004] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to improve the intervertebral implant of the type first described to have sufficient stability.

[0005] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by the type of intervertebral implant described first, wherein the intervertebral implant comprises a frame structure having at least two support elements, the at least two support elements extending from the upper side of the implant to the lower side of the implant, and the at least two support elements define a longitudinal axis of the support elements running laterally, particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the first and / or second vertebral body contact surfaces.

[0006] Providing at least two support elements in such a frame structure has advantages, particularly in that forces acting on the upper and lower sides of the implant can be directly transmitted to at least two support structures. Therefore, compression of the intervertebral implant, and consequently a reduction in the height of the intervertebral disc space into which the intervertebral implant is inserted, can be avoided in a remarkably good manner. Furthermore, the at least two support elements can, in particular, be fitted with anchoring projections, so-called spikes, that can reach the upper and lower sides of the implant, for example, at their ends. Therefore, these can be optimally bonded, in particular, to intervertebral implants consisting mainly of open-hole lattice structures, which can be formed, for example, by additive or generative manufacturing methods. Open-hole structures are particularly preferred to allow for internal bone growth (ingrowth) into the intervertebral implant. Furthermore, the support elements facilitate cleaning of the intervertebral implant, especially after its manufacture, i.e., when the intervertebral implant has an open-hole lattice structure. Areas that are normally impossible to clean when the fixed projection is directly attached to the open-hole lattice structure are reduced to a minimum level by cleaning the implant after manufacturing, for example, by the arrangement of support elements to eliminate the possibility of residual additives. The frame structure may be a multi-part structure in particular, and at least two support elements may join multiple components of the frame structure to each other, thereby obtaining a robust and stable structure for the entire intervertebral implant. At least two support elements may be rod-shaped in particular. Furthermore, at least two support elements may define a constant or substantially constant cross-sectional area along their range. This can reduce areas that are impossible to clean, especially during cleaning of the intervertebral implant. Due to the continuity of at least two support elements, cleaning of the intervertebral implant, in particular the open-hole lattice structure optionally included thereby, becomes easier. Areas that are impossible to clean can be reduced as much as possible for cleaning the intervertebral implant after manufacturing, for example, to eliminate the possibility of residual additives.

[0007] It is advantageous if at least two support elements have end faces facing away from the intervertebral implant, and at least one of these end faces has at least one fixing process (bears) facing away from the intervertebral implant. Such fixing processes, also called spikes, play a role in securely positioning the intervertebral implant in the intervertebral disc space. The fixing processes can bite into the adjacent vertebral body and thus prevent, or at least limit, relative movement between the intervertebral implant and the adjacent vertebral body. Placing the fixing processes on the end faces of the support elements enables a secure and robust connection to the intervertebral implant. The fixing processes can thereby be reliably prevented from being sheared off from the intervertebral implant. This risk is particularly present when such fixing processes are placed directly in an open lattice structure. The fixing processes may be pushed into or bent by the intervertebral implant, preventing them from facing toward the adjacent vertebral body and thus preventing them from penetrating the vertebral body to fix the intervertebral implant, which can lead to deformation of the lattice structure and thus cause the fixing processes to malfunction.

[0008] To enable secure fixation of the intervertebral implant to the adjacent vertebral body, it is preferable that at least one of the fixation processes has a pointed, particularly thorn-like, configuration.

[0009] If at least one of the fixation projections is conical or substantially conical in shape, the intervertebral implant can be formed in a simple manner. It has a tip that helps to bite into the adjacent vertebral body, and the base surface can also be attached to the associated support element with a large contact surface.

[0010] Preferably, at least one fixing projection defines the longitudinal axis of the projection, and the longitudinal axis of the projection extends parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the longitudinal axis of the support element of the associated support element. The parallel or collinear alignment of the longitudinal axis of the projection and the longitudinal axis of the support element of each support element can improve the stability of the intervertebral implant, and in particular, the attachment of at least one fixing projection to the associated support element.

[0011] It is advantageous that at least two support elements define a cross-section that is rectangular, triangular, or circular, or a combination of a rectangle and a semicircle, relative to the longitudinal axis of each support element. Support elements having such types of cross-sectional shapes can be formed in a simple manner. They have sufficient stability for their intended purpose. In particular, they can be connected to the frame structure in a simple and reliable manner, depending on their design.

[0012] To improve the stability of intervertebral implants, it is preferable that the intervertebral implant has three or four support structures. These may be arranged particularly symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry of the intervertebral implant, for example, in a mirror-symmetric configuration.

[0013] To improve the stability of intervertebral implants, it is preferable that at least two support elements have a solid configuration. Solid means, in particular, that they are formed without cavities and thus form a rigid support that helps avoid compression between the upper and lower sides of the implant.

[0014] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the intervertebral implant may be defined as having a central perforation, the perforation extending through the intervertebral implant from the upper side to the lower side. The perforation can be used, in particular, to accommodate a material that contributes to bone growth, thereby improving internal bone growth into the intervertebral implant and, consequently, improving the stability of the connection between adjacent vertebral bodies to which the intervertebral implants connect.

[0015] If the perforation is hollow cylindrical or substantially hollow cylindrical in structure, or has an elliptical or rectangular, particularly square, cross-section, the intervertebral implant can be formed in a simple manner. Depending on the size or shape of the intervertebral implant, the shape of the perforation, and in particular its cross-sectional shape, can be selected to optimize internal bone growth into the intervertebral implant while maximizing the overall stability of the intervertebral implant.

[0016] The perforation defines the longitudinal axis of the perforation, and it is preferable that the longitudinal axis of the perforation runs laterally, particularly perpendicular to the first vertebral body contact surface, and / or laterally, particularly perpendicular to the second vertebral body contact surface. In particular, the longitudinal axis of the perforation may run parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support element. Therefore, the stability of the intervertebral implant can be further improved, in particular, regardless of the cross-sectional shape and size of the perforation.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the frame structure may be defined as comprising a first self-closing inner frame portion and a second self-closing inner frame portion, wherein at least two support elements connect the two inner frame portions to each other. By directly connecting the inner frame portions to at least two support elements, movement of the inner frame portions relative to each other can be avoided. Thus, the overall stability of the intervertebral implant can be improved. In particular, more than two inner frame portions may be provided to further improve the torsional rigidity of the intervertebral implant.

[0018] Intervertebral implants can be made particularly small if the two internal frame portions delimit the perforation at least partially.

[0019] When the first medial frame portion is configured in the form of a ring, and / or when the second medial frame portion is configured in the form of a ring, the intervertebral implant can be formed in a particularly simple manner. Thus, the medial frame portion connected to at least two support elements also defines the position of the support elements on the intervertebral implant.

[0020] It is advantageous if the first medial frame portion defines at least partially the upper side of the implant, and / or if the second medial frame portion defines at least partially the lower side of the implant. Thus, the medial frame portion may define at least partially the outline of the intervertebral implant. Therefore, since at least two support elements are connected to the medial frame portion, forces acting on the medial frame portion are transmitted to the support elements. This helps to further improve the stability of the intervertebral implant.

[0021] Preferably, the frame structure comprises a first self-closing outer frame portion and a second self-closing outer frame portion, the two outer frame portions connected to two inner frame portions in a manner particularly torsionally resistant. Such a frame structure may define an implant volume extending between the inner and outer frame portions. This implant volume may be filled, for example, with an open lattice structure that allows for internal bone growth but lacks the stability, particularly compressive stability, required for the function of the intervertebral implant. In an intervertebral implant, the frame structure plays a role in ensuring the stability of the intervertebral implant. Therefore, the function of optimal internal growth of bone tissue can be separated, for example, from the function of maximizing the stability of the intervertebral implant in a targeted and defined manner.

[0022] It is preferable that the first outer frame portion at least partially defines the upper side of the implant, and / or the second outer frame portion at least partially defines the lower side of the implant. Thus, the outer frame portion can distribute the forces acting on the intervertebral implant to the inner frame portion, and therefore indirectly to the support element. Furthermore, the outer frame portion can also delimit the intervertebral implant laterally. For example, three or more frame portions may be provided depending on the size of the intervertebral implant. The intervertebral implant has a size corresponding to the position of the intervertebral disc space into which it is inserted.

[0023] When the first outer frame portion is configured in the form of a ring, and / or when the second outer frame portion is configured in the form of a ring, the intervertebral implant can be formed in a simple manner. The ring does not necessarily have to be circular. In particular, it may be elliptical, or it may be composed of multiple parts having different curvatures. In particular, it may include straight parts.

[0024] Preferably, the intervertebral implant comprises a frame base connecting the outer frame portion to the inner frame portion. The frame base can be used, for example, for handling the intervertebral implant. Furthermore, designing it accordingly can significantly contribute to the stability of the intervertebral implant.

[0025] In particular, a solid frame structure is advantageous for achieving high stability in intervertebral implants.

[0026] If the frame base is cubic or substantially cubic in shape, intervertebral implants can be formed in a simple manner.

[0027] For handling an intervertebral implant, it is particularly preferable to provide a device receptacle that leads to a force-locking and / or positive-locking engagement with an insertion device.

[0028] When the device receptacle is arranged or formed on the frame base body, the handling of the intervertebral implant can be made easy and reliable. In particular, the device receptacle may be accessible from the front side extending laterally between the upper side and the lower side of the implant.

[0029] It is advantageous if the device receptacle defines a device receptacle longitudinal axis and the device receptacle longitudinal axis runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the drilling longitudinal axis. Thereby, in particular, it becomes possible to engage the intervertebral implant with the insertion device and to insert the intervertebral implant transversely into the intervertebral disc space. Thereby, both the lower side and the upper side of the implant can remain completely free, and the intervertebral implant can be inserted into the intervertebral disc space without hindrance.

[0030] If the device receptacle is configured in the form of a bore or formed by a sleeve, the intervertebral implant can be formed in a simple manner.

[0031] The connection between the intervertebral implant and the insertion device for insertion into the intervertebral disc space can be improved in a simple manner by a device receptacle provided with an internal thread. The insertion device may be provided with an external thread corresponding to the internal thread of the device receptacle. Thus, the insertion device can be screwed into the intervertebral implant, thereby temporarily creating a stable connection between the insertion device and the intervertebral implant.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the posterior side of the intervertebral implant may be defined to extend laterally, particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the first vertebral body contact surface, and laterally, particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the second vertebral body contact surface. Thus, for example, an intervertebral implant that is cubic or substantially cubic as a whole can be formed.

[0033] The instrument receptacle preferably extends from the anterior side of the intervertebral implant to the perforation, particularly parallel or substantially parallel to the upper and / or lower sides of the implant. This allows the instrument receptacle to be formed or positioned on the intervertebral implant without sacrificing stability. To ensure maximum stability of the intervertebral implant, the frame base may be solid, particularly excluding the instrument receptacle.

[0034] The first vertebral body contact surface and / or the second vertebral body contact surface are preferably at least partially, and especially completely, planar or substantially planar in configuration. Therefore, they can be optimally fitted to the lateral surfaces of the vertebral bodies defining the intervertebral disc space to enable optimal loading.

[0035] Preferably, the first pyramidal contact surface defines the first abutment plane, the second pyramidal contact surface defines the second abutment plane, and the first and second abutment planes extend parallel to each other or are inclined relative to each other by an angle of inclination. This design allows the intervertebral implant to be physiologically optimally fitted into a given intervertebral disc space in order to maintain adjacent vertebral bodies at a desired distance and in a natural orientation relative to each other.

[0036] The inclination angle preferably has a value in the range of 0 to about 20 degrees. Such an inclination angle allows the intervertebral implant to be optimally fitted to the physiological state of the patient's spine.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment, the first vertebral contact surface and / or the second vertebral contact surface may be formed convexly curved, particularly two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally, at least partially, and especially completely, toward the intervertebral implant. Forming the vertebral contact surfaces in the manner described allows for optimal adaptation to the natural state of the intervertebral disc of a patient into which an intervertebral implant is inserted in the removed intervertebral disc space.

[0038] To facilitate and improve the internal growth of bone tissue into intervertebral implants, it is preferable that the implant volume defined by the intervertebral implant is at least partially filled with an open-hole lattice structure. In particular, the implant volume may be completely filled with such an open-hole lattice structure. The lattice structure may be formed in particular by a wire-like fabric or fabric structure having numerous cavities that are fluidly connected to one another. For example, such a lattice structure can be formed in a simple manner by a generative manufacturing method.

[0039] The lattice structure is preferably manufactured by a generative manufacturing method. This allows for the integral, i.e., monolithic, formation of the intervertebral implant. That is, both the supporting portion of the intervertebral implant, i.e., the frame structure, and the portions that facilitate the internal growth of bone tissue into the intervertebral implant, such as the perforated lattice structure, can be formed integrally, i.e., monolithically. In this application, the term “generative” is used synonymously with the term “additive.”

[0040] The overall manufacturing of intervertebral implants can be improved if the entire and / or frame structure of the intervertebral implant is formed by a generative manufacturing method. In particular, the open-hole lattice structure of the intervertebral implant can be formed by a generative manufacturing method if such a structure is provided.

[0041] The frame structure and / or lattice structure and / or the entire intervertebral implant is preferably formed by selective laser sintering. Therefore, the intervertebral implant can be constructed, for example, in layers. In particular, any structure can be constructed.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, the frame structure and / or the entire intervertebral plant may be formed from a metal and / or resin material. In particular, the lattice structure, which may be an open structure, may be formed from a metal and / or resin material.

[0043] Therefore, the above description includes, in particular, embodiments of intervertebral implants as defined below in the form of numbered sentences.

[0044] (1) An intervertebral implant (10) inserted into the intervertebral disc space (12) between two adjacent vertebral bodies (14, 16) of the spine (18) of a human or animal, wherein the intervertebral implant has an upper part (20) that defines a first vertebral body contact surface (24) that contacts the first vertebral body (14), and a lower part (22) that defines a second vertebral body contact surface (26) that contacts the second vertebral body (16), and the intervertebral implant ( 10) An intervertebral implant comprising a frame structure (28) having at least two support elements (3), at least two support elements (30) extending from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant, and at least two support elements (30) defining a longitudinal axis (32) of the support elements that extends laterally, and particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the first and / or second pyramidal contact surfaces (24, 26).

[0045] (2) An intervertebral implant according to Article 1, characterized in that at least two support elements (30) have end faces (80, 82) facing away from the intervertebral implant (10), and at least one of these end faces (80, 82) has at least one fixing projection (84, 86) facing away from the intervertebral implant (10).

[0046] (3) An intervertebral implant according to Article 2, characterized in that at least one of the fixing processes (84, 86) is pointed, in particular, has a spine-like structure.

[0047] (4) An intervertebral implant according to Article 3 or 4, characterized in that at least one fixing projection (84, 86) is conical or substantially conical in shape.

[0048] (5) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 2 to 5, characterized in that at least one fixed projection (84, 86) defines a point in the longitudinal axis (92) of the projection, and the longitudinal axis (92) of the projection runs parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the longitudinal axis (32) of the associated support element (30).

[0049] (6) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 1 to 5, characterized in that at least two support elements (30) are rectangular, triangular, or circular in relation to the longitudinal axis (32) of each support element, or define a cross-section formed by a combination of a rectangle and a semicircle.

[0050] (7) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 1 to 6, characterized in that the intervertebral implant (10) comprises three or four support elements (30).

[0051] (8) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 1 to 7, characterized in that at least two support elements (30) are solid in structure.

[0052] (9) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 1 to 8, characterized in that the intervertebral implant (10) has a central perforation (44), and the perforation (44) extends through the intervertebral implant (10) from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant.

[0053] (10) An intervertebral implant according to Article 9, characterized in that the perforation (44) has a hollow cylindrical or substantially hollow cylindrical structure, or has an elliptical or rectangular, in particular square, cross-section.

[0054] (11) An intervertebral implant according to Article 9 or 10, characterized in that the perforation (44) defines a point in the longitudinal direction of the perforation (46), and the longitudinal direction of the perforation (46) runs laterally, particularly perpendicular to the first vertebral body contact surface (24), and / or laterally, particularly perpendicular to the second vertebral body contact surface (26).

[0055] (12) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 1 to 11, characterized in that the frame structure (28) comprises a first self-closing medial frame portion (36) and a second self-closing medial frame portion (38), and at least two support elements (30) connect the two medial frame portions (36, 38) to each other.

[0056] (13) An intervertebral implant according to Article 12, characterized in that two medial frame portions (36, 38) define a perforation (44) at least partially.

[0057] (14) An intervertebral implant according to Article 12 or 13, characterized in that the first medial frame portion (36) is configured in the form of a ring (40), and / or the second medial frame portion (38) is configured in the form of a ring (42).

[0058] (15) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 12 to 14, wherein the first medial frame portion (36) has a point that delimits at least partially the upper side (20) of the implant, and / or the second medial frame portion (38) has a point that delimits at least partially the lower side (22) of the implant.

[0059] (16) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the texts 12 to 15, characterized in that the frame structure (28) comprises a first self-closing outer frame portion (52) and a second self-closing outer frame portion (54), and the two outer frame portions (52, 54) are connected to two inner frame portions (36, 38) in a manner particularly torsion-resistant.

[0060] (17) An intervertebral implant according to Article 16, characterized in that a first lateral frame portion (52) defines at least a portion of the upper side (20) of the implant, and / or a second lateral frame portion (54) defines at least a portion of the lower side (22) of the implant.

[0061] (18) An intervertebral implant according to Article 16 or 17, characterized in that a first lateral frame portion (52) is configured in the form of a ring (56), and / or a second lateral frame portion (54) is configured in the form of a ring (58).

[0062] (19) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 16 to 18, characterized in that the intervertebral implant (10) comprises a frame base (62), and the frame base (62) connects the outer frame portion (52, 54) to the inner frame portion (36, 38).

[0063] (20) An intervertebral implant according to Article 16, characterized in that the frame base (62) has a solid structure.

[0064] (21) An intervertebral implant according to Article 19 or 20, characterized in that the frame base (62) is cubic or substantially cubic in shape.

[0065] (22) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the texts 1 to 21, characterized in that the intervertebral implant (10) comprises an instrument receptacle (66) that leads to force lock and / or positive lock engagement with an insertion instrument.

[0066] (23) An intervertebral implant according to Article 22, characterized in that the intervertebral implant (10) is positioned or formed on a frame base (62).

[0067] (24) An intervertebral implant according to Article 22 or 23, characterized in that the instrument receptacle (66) defines the longitudinal axis of the instrument receptacle (68), and the longitudinal axis of the instrument receptacle (68) runs laterally, and particularly perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis of the perforation (46).

[0068] (25) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 22 to 24, characterized in that the instrument receptacle (66) is composed of a hole (28) or is formed by a sleeve.

[0069] (26) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 22 to 25, characterized in that the instrument receptacle (66) is provided with a female thread.

[0070] (27) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in 1 to 26, characterized in that the anterior side (64) of the intervertebral implant (10) extends laterally, particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the first vertebral body contact surface (24), and laterally, particularly perpendicularly, with respect to the second vertebral body contact surface (26).

[0071] (28) An intervertebral implant according to Article 27, characterized in that the instrument receptacle (66) extends particularly parallel or substantially parallel to the upper (20) and / or lower (22) of the intervertebral implant (10) from the anterior side (64) to the perforation (44).

[0072] (29) An intervertebral implant according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 28, characterized in that the first vertebral body contact surface (24) and / or the second vertebral body contact surface (26) are at least partially, and in particular completely, planar or substantially planar in configuration.

[0073] (30) An intervertebral implant according to Article 29, characterized in that the first vertebral body contact surface (24) defines a first abutment plane (74), the second pyramidal body contact surface (26) defines a second abutment plane (76), and the first abutment plane (74) and the second abutment plane (76) extend parallel to each other or are inclined relative to each other by an angle of inclination (78).

[0074] (31) An intervertebral implant according to Article 30, characterized in that the inclination angle (78) is in the range of 0 degrees to approximately 20 degrees.

[0075] (32) An intervertebral implant according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 31, characterized in that the first vertebral body contact surface (24) and / or the second vertebral body contact surface (26) are formed convexly, at least partially or completely, toward a direction away from the intervertebral implant (10), and are particularly curved in two or three dimensions.

[0076] (33) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 1 to 32, characterized in that the implant volume defined by the intervertebral implant (10) is filled at least partially, and especially completely, by an open-hole lattice structure (96).

[0077] (34) An intervertebral implant according to Article 33, characterized in that the lattice structure (96) is formed by a generative manufacturing method.

[0078] (35) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the texts 1 to 34, characterized in that the entire intervertebral implant (10) and / or the frame structure (28) are formed by a generative manufacturing method.

[0079] (36) An intervertebral implant according to Article 35, characterized in that the entire frame structure (28) and / or lattice structure (96) and / or intervertebral implant (10) are formed by selective laser sintering.

[0080] (37) An intervertebral implant according to any one of the descriptions in paragraphs 1 to 36, characterized in that the entire frame structure (28) and / or the intervertebral implant (10) is formed of a metal material and / or a resin material, and the lattice structure (96) is also formed of a metal material.

[0081] A subsequent description of preferred embodiments of the present invention may be useful in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0082] [Figure 1] A schematic overall perspective view showing the first embodiment of the intervertebral implant according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Plan view of the intervertebral implant in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view along line 3-3 in Figure 2 [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view along line 4-4 in Figure 2 [Figure 5] A schematic overall perspective view showing a further embodiment of the intervertebral implant according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 5: Plan view of an intervertebral implant [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view along line 7-7 in Figure 6 [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view along line 8-8 in Figure 6 [Figure 9] A schematic side view showing two adjacent vertebrae of a human spine with intervertebral implants inserted into the intervertebral disc space between the vertebrae. [Figure 10] Figure 9 shows a schematic overall perspective view of the intervertebral implant. [Figure 11] Figure 12 shows the intervertebral implant in Figure 10 as viewed from the posterior side in the direction of arrow A. [Figure 12] A top view of the intervertebral implant shown in Figure 10. [Figure 13] Figure 12 shows the intervertebral implant in Figure 10 as viewed from the front in the direction of arrow B. [Figure 14] Cross-sectional view of the intervertebral implant in Figure 12, along line 14-14. [Figure 15] Cross-sectional view of the intervertebral implant in Figure 11 along line 15-15

[0083] Figure 1 is a schematic overall perspective view showing a first embodiment of an intervertebral implant, which is shown as a whole by reference numeral 10.

[0084] The intervertebral implant 10 is configured to be inserted into the intervertebral disc space 12 between two adjacent vertebral bodies 14 and 16 of the spine 18 of a human or animal.

[0085] The intervertebral implant 10 has an upper implant portion 20 and a lower implant portion 22.

[0086] The upper part 20 of the implant defines a first vertebral body contact surface 24 that abuts against the vertebral body 14. The lower part 22 of the implant defines a second vertebral body contact surface 26 that abuts against the vertebral body 16.

[0087] The intervertebral implant 10 further comprises a frame structure 28 having at least two support elements 30. In the embodiments of the intervertebral implant 10 shown in Figures 1 to 4, a total of four support elements 30 are provided.

[0088] The support element 30 extends from the upper part 20 of the implant to the lower part 22 of the implant.

[0089] The support element 30 defines a longitudinal axis 32 that runs laterally with respect to the vertebral contact surfaces 24 and 26. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4, the longitudinal axis 32 of the support element extends perpendicularly to the second vertebral contact surface 26. Furthermore, the longitudinal axis 32 of the support element runs perpendicularly to the tangent plane 34 that contacts the first vertebral contact surface 24, which is curved convexly away from the intervertebral implant 10.

[0090] The frame structure 28 comprises a first self-closing inner frame portion 36 and a second self-closing inner frame portion 38. The support element 30 is connected to the two frame portions 36 and 38. The frame portions 36 and 38 are each configured in the form of their respective rings 40 and 42.

[0091] The first inner frame portion 36 forms part of the upper part 20 of the implant, or partially defines the upper part 20 of the implant, i.e., in the form of a ring 40. In a similar manner, the second inner frame portion 38 partially defines the lower part 22 of the implant, or forms part of the lower part 22 of the implant.

[0092] The intervertebral implant 10 has a central perforation 44 that extends through the intervertebral implant 10 from the upper side 20 to the lower side 22. The perforation 44 is hollow cylindrical or substantially hollow cylindrical in structure.

[0093] In other embodiments, the perforation 44 has an elliptical, rectangular, or particularly square cross-section.

[0094] The perforation 44 defines a longitudinal axis 46 of the perforation that runs laterally with respect to the first pyramidal contact surface 24 and laterally with respect to the second vertebral contact surface 26. In the embodiments of the intervertebral implant 10 shown in Figures 1 to 4, the longitudinal axis 46 of the perforation runs perpendicular to the second pyramidal contact surface 26 and perpendicular to the tangent plane 34 to the first pyramidal contact surface 24, which is curved convexly away from the intervertebral implant 10.

[0095] The two inner frame sections 36 and 38 partially define the perforation 44.

[0096] The support element 30 maintains the frame portions 36 and 38 at a predetermined distance 48 from each other.

[0097] The intervertebral implant 10 as a whole is mirror-symmetric with respect to a mirror surface 50 that extends perpendicularly to the first pyramidal contact surface 24.

[0098] The frame structure 28 further comprises a first self-closing outer frame portion 52 and a second self-closing outer frame portion 54. The outer frame portions 52 and 54 are connected to the inner frame portions 36 and 38. The entire frame structure 28 has a torsional resistance configuration.

[0099] The first outer frame portion 52 partially defines or forms part of the upper part 20 of the implant. Similarly, the second outer frame portion 54 partially defines or forms part of the lower part 22 of the implant.

[0100] The frame portions 52 and 54 are each configured in the form of the respective rings 56 and 58. The rings 56 and 58 are self-closing but not circular in shape. They are composed of multiple portions with different radii of curvature. The portions of rings 56 and 58 adjacent to the posterior side 60 of the intervertebral implant 10 run linearly, and these portions, having a defined longitudinal axis, run perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 32 of the support element and parallel to the second pyramidal contact surface 26.

[0101] The frame structure 28 is further solid in construction and includes a frame base 62 that connects the outer frame portions 52 and 54 to the inner frame portions 36 and 38.

[0102] The frame base 62 has a substantially cubic structure and extends from the plate-shaped front side 64 to the perforation 44, that is, from the upper side 20 of the implant to the lower side 22 of the implant.

[0103] The intervertebral implant 10 further comprises an instrument receptacle 66 that leads to force-lock and / or positive-lock engagement with an insertion instrument (not shown).

[0104] The instrument receptacle 66 is positioned or formed on the frame base 62 and defines the instrument receptacle longitudinal direction 68. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4, the instrument receptacle longitudinal axis 68 runs laterally, i.e., perpendicularly, to the perforation longitudinal axis 46.

[0105] The instrument receptacle 66 is configured in the form of a hole 70. In a further embodiment, the instrument receptacle is formed by a sleeve. Furthermore, the instrument receptacle 66 is provided with an internal thread 72.

[0106] The anterior portion 64 of the intervertebral implant 10 extends laterally with respect to the first vertebral body contact surface 24, particularly perpendicular to the tangent plane 34, and laterally, i.e., perpendicularly, with respect to the second vertebral body contact surface 26.

[0107] The instrument receptacle 66 extends from the anterior side 64 to the perforation 44, that is, parallel to the lower side 22 of the implant.

[0108] The first vertebral contact surface 24 has a partially planar configuration. The second vertebral contact surface 26 has a completely planar configuration.

[0109] The first vertebral body contact surface 24 defines the first abutment plane 74. The first abutment plane 74 extends from the posterior side 60 of the short upper portion of the implant toward the anterior side 64.

[0110] The second vertebral body contact surface 26 defines the second abutment plane 76. In the illustrated embodiment of the intervertebral implant 10, the abutment planes 74 and 76 are inclined relative to each other by an inclination angle 78. The inclination angle 78 has a value in the range of 0 degrees to about 20 degrees.

[0111] The first pyramidal contact surface 24 is partially convex, that is, curved in two or three dimensions, in the direction away from the intervertebral implant 10.

[0112] The support element 30 has end faces 80 and 82 that face away from the intervertebral implant 10. The end faces 80 and 82 form a portion of the first vertebral body contact surface 24 and the second vertebral body contact surface 26, respectively.

[0113] The end faces 80 and 82 are each provided with fixing protrusions 84 and 86. The fixing protrusions 84 and 86 are pointed in shape, each defining its respective tip 88 and 90. Overall, the fixing protrusions 84 and 86 have a conical or substantially conical shape.

[0114] The fixed projections 84 and 86 define the projection longitudinal axis 92. The projection longitudinal axis 92 runs parallel to the support element longitudinal axis 32 of the associated support element 30.

[0115] The cross-section of each support element 30 with respect to its longitudinal axis 32 is formed by a combination of a rectangle and a semicircle. The semicircle is oriented toward the outer frame portions 52 and 54 and away from the hole 44. The fixing protrusions 84 and 86 are positioned or oriented toward the base surface relative to the end faces 80 and 82 such that the semicircle covers half of its base surface.

[0116] Each of the support elements 30 is solid in structure; they do not have any cavities.

[0117] The intervertebral implant 10 and frame structure 28 are formed by additional manufacturing methods. If the intervertebral implant is made of a metal material, it is formed additionally, for example, by selective laser sintering or electron beam melting. If the intervertebral implant 10 is made of a resin material, it is formed, for example, by 3D printing.

[0118] Figures 5 to 8 schematically show a further embodiment of the intervertebral implant indicated by reference numeral 10. Its structure is basically the same as that of the intervertebral implant shown in Figures 1 to 4, and the same reference numerals as those used in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 are used to indicate the individual elements.

[0119] The embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 8 differ from the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 only in their dimensions. This is particularly evident in the different heights 94 that define the distance between the first vertebral contact surface 24 and the second vertebral contact surface 26 in the anterior region 64.

[0120] The difference in size between the two embodiments of the intervertebral implant 10 shown in Figures 1 to 8 becomes particularly clear when considering that the instrument receptacle 66 has the same dimensions in both embodiments. Therefore, it can be directly seen that the height 94 in the embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 8 is only about 40% of the height 94 in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4.

[0121] Further embodiments of the intervertebral implant, as a whole indicated by reference numeral 10, are shown in Figures 9 to 15. These embodiments are in complete agreement with the embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 8 in their structure. Furthermore, the implant volume defined by the intervertebral implant 10, excluding the perforation 44 and instrument receptacle 66, is filled with an open-hole grid structure 96.

[0122] The lattice structure 96 has multiple cavities that are fluidly connected to each other, within which bone tissue of the transplanted intervertebral implant can grow.

[0123] Figure 9 schematically shows an intervertebral implant 10 inserted into the intervertebral disc space 12 between vertebral bodies 14 and 16. Fixation processes 84 and 86 are inserted into vertebral bodies 14 and 16, and in particular, restrict the movement of the intervertebral implant 10 in a direction parallel to the respective vertebral contact surfaces 24 and 26, and therefore especially in the direction toward the spinal canal 98 of the vertebral column 18.

[0124] If the vertebral bodies 14 and 16 are lumbar vertebrae, the intervertebral implant 10 is inserted into the intervertebral disc space 12, i.e., the intervertebral space between the vertebral bodies 14 and 16, such that the anterior side 64 faces distal or anteriorly, i.e., toward the patient's abdomen, and the posterior side 60 faces posteriorly, i.e., toward the spinal canal 98.

[0125] The intervertebral implant 10 according to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 may also be filled with a lattice structure 96 as described in relation to the embodiments shown in Figures 9 to 15, that is, in particular, entirely or only in the region of implant volume defined by the intervertebral implant 10, excluding the perforation 44 and the instrument receptacle 66.

[0126] All described embodiments of the intervertebral implant 10 are common in that the fixing projections 84 and 86 are firmly connected to the frame structure 28. Therefore, they are not pressed into the volume defined by each intervertebral implant 10, as would be the case if the fixing projections were directly positioned within the region, i.e., on the lattice structure 96. Thus, shearing of the fixing projections within the implant volume, so-called sinking, can be prevented. Overall, the stability of the intervertebral implant can be significantly improved, which has excellent properties for internal growth of bone tissue into the intervertebral implant.

[0127] The solid configuration of the support elements forming the base of the fixation projections 84 and 86 facilitates cleaning of the lattice structure 96. In particular, the cleaning of the intervertebral implant 10 after manufacturing is improved, especially for removing residues of auxiliary agents, as the areas that cannot be cleaned due to the fixation projections 84 and 86 are reduced to a minimum level. In particular, if the fixation projections are directly positioned in the lattice structure 96, areas that cannot be cleaned may occur, such as cavities that are difficult to clean remaining behind the fixation projections 84 and 86. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0128] 10 Intervertebral Implants 12 Intervertebral disc space 14 vertebral body 16 vertebral body 18 Spinal column 20 Upper side of implant 22. Lower side of the implant 24 1st vertebral body contact surface 26 Second vertebral body contact surface 28 Frame Structure 30 Support elements 32 Support element longitudinal axis 34 Tangent plane 36. First inner frame section 38. Second inner frame section 40 Rings 42 rings 44 Perforation 46 Longitudinal axis of perforation 48 distance 50 Mirror surface 52 First outer frame section 54 Second outer frame section 56 rings 58 Rings 60 rear 62 Frame base 64 Front 66. Instrument Receptacle 68. Instrument Receptacle Longitudinal Axis 70 holes 72 Female thread 74 Abutment Plane 76 Abutment Plane 78 Tilt angle 80 End face 82 End face 84 Fixed protrusion 86 Fixed protrusion 88 Tip 90 Tip 94 Height 96 Lattice structure 98 Spinal canal

Claims

1. An intervertebral implant (10) inserted into the intervertebral disc space (12) between two adjacent vertebral bodies (14, 16) of the vertebral column (18) of a human or animal, The intervertebral implant has an upper part (20) that defines a first vertebral contact surface (24) that abuts against a first vertebral body (14), and a lower part (22) that defines a second vertebral contact surface (26) that abuts against a second vertebral body (16). The intervertebral implant (10) comprises a frame structure (28) having at least two support elements (30), The at least two support elements (30) extend from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant, The at least two support elements (30) define a longitudinal axis (32) of the support element that runs laterally with respect to the first and / or second vertebral body contact surfaces (24, 26), The frame structure (28) comprises a first self-closing inner frame portion (36) and a second self-closing inner frame portion (38), The at least two support elements (30) are positioned outside the two inner frame portions (36, 38), The at least two support elements (30) connect the two inner frame portions (36, 38) to each other by direct connection of the inner frame portions (36, 38) to the at least two support elements, The at least two support elements (30) have end faces (80, 82) facing away from the intervertebral implant (10), At least one of the end faces (80, 82) has at least one fixing projection (84, 86) that faces away from the intervertebral implant (10), Intervertebral implants.

2. The aforementioned at least one fixing projection (84, 86) is at least one of the following: (a) pointed, and (b) Conical structure, The intervertebral implant according to claim 1.

3. The at least one of the fixing projections (84, 86) has a thorn-like shape. The intervertebral implant according to claim 2.

4. The at least one fixed projection (84, 86) defines the longitudinal axis (92) of the projection, The longitudinal axis (92) of the projection runs parallel to the longitudinal axis (32) of the associated support element (30). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The at least two support elements (30) define a cross-section that is rectangular, triangular, circular, or formed by a combination of a rectangle and a semicircle, with respect to the longitudinal axis (32) of each support element. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. At least one of the following (a) or (b): (a) The at least two support elements (30) are solid in structure. and (b) The intervertebral implant (10) has a central perforation (44), the perforation (44) extending through the intervertebral implant (10) from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The intervertebral implant (10) has a central perforation (44), The perforation (44) extends from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant, through the intervertebral implant (10), The aforementioned perforation (44) is at least one of the following: Having a hollow cylindrical structure, or having an elliptical or rectangular cross-section, And, A longitudinal axis of perforation (46) is defined, and the longitudinal axis of perforation (46) runs transversely to the first vertebral body contact surface (24) and / or transversely to the second vertebral body contact surface (26). The intervertebral implant according to claim 6.

8. The intervertebral implant (10) has a central perforation (44), The perforation (44) extends through the intervertebral implant (10) from the upper side (20) of the implant to the lower side (22) of the implant. The two inner frame portions (36, 38) define the perforation (44) at least partially. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The first inner frame portion (36) is configured in the form of a ring (40), and / or the second inner frame portion (38) is configured in the form of a ring (42). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first inner frame portion (36) defines at least partially the upper side (20) of the implant, and / or the second inner frame portion (38) defines at least partially the lower side (22) of the implant. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The frame structure (28) comprises a first self-closing outer frame portion (52) and a second self-closing outer frame portion (54), The two outer frame portions (52, 54) are connected to the two inner frame portions (36, 38). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The two outer frame portions (52, 54) are connected to the two inner frame portions (36, 38) in a manner that provides torsional resistance. The intervertebral implant according to claim 11.

13. The first outer frame portion (52) defines at least partially the upper side (20) of the implant, and / or the second outer frame (54) defines at least partially the lower side (22) of the implant. The intervertebral implant according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The first outer frame portion (52) is configured in the form of a ring (56), and / or the second outer frame portion (54) is configured in the form of a ring (58). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. The intervertebral implant (10) comprises a frame base (62), The frame base (62) connects the outer frame portions (52, 54) to the inner frame portions (36, 38). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. The frame base (62) is at least one of the following: (a) It has a solid structure, and / or, (b) It has a cubic structure, The intervertebral implant according to claim 15.

17. The intervertebral implant (10) is equipped with an instrument receptacle (66) that enables force lock and / or positive lock engagement with the insertion instrument. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The aforementioned device receptacle (66) is arranged or formed on the frame base (62). The intervertebral implant according to claim 17.

19. The implant volume defined by the intervertebral implant is filled at least partially with an open-hole lattice structure (96). An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The implant volume is completely filled with an open grid structure (96). The intervertebral implant according to claim 19.

21. The at least two support elements (30) define a certain cross-sectional area along their respective ranges. An intervertebral implant according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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