Device for maintaining intervertebral space and protecting spinal cord

Abstract

The present application relates to a device for maintaining intervertebral space and protecting the spinal cord. The device for maintaining intervertebral space and protecting the spinal cord, according to one embodiment of the present application, comprises a first body and a second body extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the first body and the second body approach each other so as to be coupled to accommodate the spinal cord in an inner space while forming the inner space extending in the longitudinal direction, and the first body and the second body can be structured such that the respective dorsal ends thereof are bent inward.

Description

Vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism

[0001] This invention relates to a device for maintaining intervertebral space and protecting the spinal cord.

[0002] Spinal injury refers to a condition in which damage occurs to various structures of the spine, such as bones, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. Since the spine is closely linked to the nervous system, damage to the spine can lead to nerve damage, resulting in serious functional problems such as paralysis, pain, and loss of sensation. Spinal injuries can occur due to accidents, falls, sports activities, or diseases, and symptoms can range from mild pain to complete paralysis depending on the severity of the injury. Treatment varies depending on the extent and location of the injury and the patient's condition, and involves a combination of methods including surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.

[0003] Among various treatment methods, vertebral treatment encompasses diverse technical approaches aimed at restoring spinal fractures or abnormal deformities. Recently, various techniques for vertebral reinforcement are being researched alongside minimally invasive surgical methods. Methods used to stabilize the vertebral body include vertebroplasty, spinal fixation, bone grafting, and spinal implants. Vertebroplasty is a treatment that restores fractured vertebrae and alleviates pain, and it is frequently applied, particularly to patients with osteoporosis. Furthermore, active research is being conducted on the fabrication of customized spinal implants using 3D printing technology and the development of biomaterials that aid in the physiological reconstruction of the vertebral body. Additionally, these techniques help restore fractured vertebrae and relieve pain through small incisions, offering the advantages of short recovery times and reduced hospital stays.

[0004] However, due to the current lack of customized designs tailored to the patient's anatomical structure, devices may not fit perfectly within the body, potentially leading to additional complications such as positional instability, device migration, or incompatibility with the vertebral bodies after insertion. Furthermore, regarding the porous structure intended to promote bone fusion, some devices may experience issues where bone tissue fails to fully grow or loses strength over time. Consequently, long-term stability cannot be guaranteed, which may necessitate revision surgery. In the case of metal devices, durability issues regarding metal fatigue or corrosion within the body are raised, while polymeric materials such as PEEK face limitations in striking a balance between sufficient strength and fusion characteristics.

[0005] Furthermore, if the dura mater comes into direct contact or is compressed during instrument insertion, spinal cord injury or dural perforation may occur, leading to serious complications such as postoperative neurological deficits or cerebrospinal fluid leakage. In particular, these problems are exacerbated if the insertion path and design of the instrument do not precisely match the curved structure of the spinal cord, or if excessive force is applied during the insertion process.

[0006] Furthermore, if the porous structure designed to promote bone tissue fusion comes into excessive contact with the dura mater or fails to secure sufficient clearance with the spinal cord, it can cause long-term damage; additionally, if the position of the device is not accurately adjusted during insertion, it can lead to neuromuscular compression and stability issues.

[0007] Accordingly, we intend to provide a vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device that can reduce damage to the spinal cord or dura mater during device insertion.

[0008] The technology forming the background of this invention is disclosed in Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-2510244.

[0009] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the aforementioned conventional technology by providing a vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism capable of protecting the spinal cord during the treatment of vertebral injury and deformity.

[0010] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device capable of securing long-term therapeutic effects through bone tissue fusion.

[0011] However, the technical problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to the technical problems described above, and other technical problems may exist.

[0012]

[0013] As a technical means for achieving the above-mentioned technical problem, a vertebral body interspace maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first body and a second body extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the first body and the second body are coupled to approach each other to form an internal space extending in the longitudinal direction between the first body and the second body, and to accommodate a spinal cord in the internal space, and the first body and the second body may include a structure in which the dorsal ends are bent inward.

[0014] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the inner surface where the first body and the second body are joined and in contact may be formed as a curved surface.

[0015] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the first body and the second body are combined, the other end portions of the first body and the second body may be formed to be spaced apart from each other.

[0016] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the first body and the second body may be formed symmetrically with respect to a surface extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0017] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the first body and the second body are manufactured in a ready-made size and can be selectively used in correspondence with the height of the vertebral body.

[0018] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rear surfaces of the first body and the second body include a groove, and the groove may be formed to accommodate a metal rod.

[0019] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the cross-section of the groove may be formed in a diagonal shape or a shape having curvature.

[0020] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the intervertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism may further include a support structure extending longitudinally around the vertebral body.

[0021] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the support structure may include a fixing body that receives the other end of the metal rod received across the groove of the first body and the second body, a support column that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body, a fixing screw that is inserted into the vertebral body to fix the support structure, and a coupling member that fixes the vertebral body by combining the fixing screw and the support column.

[0022] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing body may be slidably fastened on both transverse sides of the support column extending longitudinally around the vertebral body.

[0023] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixing body may have a width corresponding to the diameter of the metal rod and may include a fixing body groove formed by indentation.

[0024] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the first body and the second body include a porous structure, and the porous structure may be formed on a portion of the back surface.

[0025] The means for solving the problem described above are merely exemplary and should not be interpreted as intended to limit the present invention. In addition to the exemplary embodiments described above, additional embodiments may exist in the drawings and the detailed description of the invention.

[0026] According to the means for solving the problem of the present invention described above, the present invention is provided with a structure in which the ventral end is bent inward in a blunt manner, so that a spinal cord protection mechanism for maintaining the intervertebral space can be easily inserted between the vertebrae.

[0027] In addition, this device has the effect of reducing damage to the spinal cord and dura mater during insertion by treating the inner surface of the area where each body of the intervertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device contacts the spinal cord with a curved surface.

[0028] In addition, the present invention is configured to connect a support column to a fixed body and to interlock and combine two metal rods from above and below, thereby maintaining the intervertebral space and preventing forward or backward movement of the spinal cord protection mechanism.

[0029] However, the effects achieved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other effects may be achieved.

[0030] Figure 1 shows the spine viewed from the side of the human body.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a diagram exemplarily showing how a spinal cord is accommodated in the internal space of a spinal cord protection mechanism and intervertebral space maintenance device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a first body and a second body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a drawing that exemplarily shows the first body and the second body being joined together in contact with each other according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplarily showing the structure of the rear ends of the first body and the second body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 is a diagram exemplifying the insertion of the device as it widens the space between the vertebrae.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the installation of a cage to replace the vertebral body in a patient's damaged spine and the installation of a support structure around the spine in a conventional manner.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a diagram exemplarily showing a metal rod being received in the grooves of the first body and the second body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplarily showing the mechanism connected to a support structure according to one embodiment of the present invention inserted between vertebral bodies.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a drawing exemplarily showing the porous structure of a first body and a second body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings to enable those skilled in the art to easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0041] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are "electrically connected" with other elements interposed between them.

[0042] Throughout the entire specification, when a component is described as being located "on," "on top," "on top," "under," "on bottom," or "on bottom" of another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0043] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0044] Hereinafter, a vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device (1) (hereinafter referred to as "the device") according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The device is designed to protect the spinal cord by surrounding at least a portion of the spinal cord and replacing a portion of a removed vertebral body, with a portion inserted between vertebral bodies spaced apart in the vertical direction or the proximal-distal direction. Accordingly, the anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, proximal, and distal directions can be understood by a person skilled in the art according to the function of the device. Additionally, the longitudinal direction of the device can be understood as the vertical direction or the proximal-distal direction, and the transverse direction can be understood as the medial-lateral direction or the left-right direction. Directions described or illustrated as medial or lateral below can be understood by a person skilled in the art as the left or right direction for convenience.

[0045] The spine comprises 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae, extending vertically along the back of a person. The vertebral bodies formed at the anterior end of the spine and the posterior arches form a spinal canal in the center of the spine, through which spinal cords flow. In this regard, FIG. 1 is a lateral view of the spine according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the spine may consist of vertebral bodies (V) and intervertebral discs (D) between the vertebral bodies. The spinal cord extending within the spinal canal reaches a length of 41 to 45 cm and contains motor nerves, sensory nerves, and autonomic nerves.

[0046] In a healthy state, the vertebral bodies have a shape similar to a square; however, if spinal health deteriorates due to factors such as osteoporosis caused by aging, the vertebral bodies become damaged and lose their integrity. Such vertebral bodies can be destroyed or damaged by compression fractures or pathological fractures. In the case of compression fractures, where a vertebral body is fractured by excessive force, typically only one vertebral body is damaged; however, pathological fractures caused by cancer metastasis result in the damage of one or more vertebral bodies. When a vertebral body is damaged, the bone or tissue is pushed backward, compressing the spinal cord within the spinal canal. If the spinal cord is compressed, symptoms such as pain or lower limb paralysis occur, necessitating surgical intervention.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the device can protect the spinal cord posterior to the vertebral body from being compressed while supporting the spaced-apart vertebral body after removing a portion of the vertebral body for a patient with a compression fracture or pathological fracture of the vertebral body, and can protect the spinal nerve surrounded by the dura mater in contact with the inner surface of the device.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first body (10) and a second body (20) that extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0049] Specifically, the device includes a first body (10) and a second body (20) that extend in the longitudinal direction, and the first body (10) and the second body (20) can be combined to form a structure capable of maintaining a spacing between vertebrae.

[0050] The first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device may be joined so as to be close to each other, forming an internal space extending longitudinally between the first body (10) and the second body (20), and accommodating a spinal cord in the internal space.

[0051] Specifically, the first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device are brought into contact with each other to form an internal space extending longitudinally between the first body (10) and the second body (20), and the internal space can accommodate the spinal cord. When the first body (10) and the second body (20) are combined, they interlock with each other to provide a stable internal space, thereby protecting the spinal cord from external pressure or damage. Additionally, the combined structure of the first body (10) and the second body (20) provides fixation force between the vertebrae, and simultaneously achieves protection of the spinal cord and maintenance of a stable spacing.

[0052] The fact that the first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device are brought into close proximity and joined together can be understood as the distance between the first body (10) and the second body (20) being reduced so that at least one surface of the first body (10) and the second body (20) are joined to form a single device. Here, joining may include joining methods such as a loose fit, an intermediate fit, a press fit, a tapered fit, and furthermore, it can be understood as a broad concept including means for forming a single device, such as one surface of the first body (10) and one surface of the second body (20) being joined through a biocompatible adhesive.

[0053] Specifically, a loose fit or intermediate fit may be used to allow for easy adjustment during surgery, and after fixation, it may be more firmly fixed through an interference fit or tapered joint. Additionally, the joining surfaces of the first body (10) and the second body (20) may include a groove (12a) and a protrusion (22a) to provide additional bonding force. When a biocompatible adhesive is used, the device can be accurately fixed between the vertebrae and provide long-term fixation force to prevent movement or positional change of the device after surgery. Furthermore, the various bonding methods described above can be selectively applied according to each patient's condition and surgical environment.

[0054] For example, in cases where the patient has low bone density or osteoporosis, additional fixation can be provided by using a biocompatible adhesive instead of an interference fit or tapered joint. On the other hand, in patients with healthy bones, the device can be securely fixed through a loose fit followed by an interference fit. Depending on the surgical environment, a simple fitting method can be used for minimally invasive surgery, or a loose fit followed by an interference fit can be used when more robust fixation is required. Alternatively, the device can be easily adjusted during surgery by using a combination of a tapered joint and a biocompatible adhesive, followed by providing more robust fixation through an interference fit. Furthermore, long-term fixation can be provided by designing the connection surface of the device in a tapered shape to maximize friction during connection and using this in conjunction with a biocompatible adhesive.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a diagram exemplarily showing how a spinal cord is accommodated in the internal space of a spinal cord protection mechanism (1) (the mechanism) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2, the first body (10) and the second body (20) may be formed such that at least a portion of them cover or surround a portion of the spinal cord canal within the patient's spine. Since the spinal cord is located in an internal space (cylindrical space) formed by the first body (10) and the second body (20) coming into contact with each other, damage may occur when the device is inserted between the vertebrae, and sharp edges or protrusions (22a) on the inner surface may cause direct pressure or abrasions to the spinal cord. In particular, if pressure is applied while the sharp edges come into contact with the spinal cord, a portion of the tissue may be compressed or scraped, leading to bleeding, inflammation, or, in severe cases, even nerve damage.

[0057] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a first body (10) and a second body (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, the first body (10) may include a first sleeve (11), a first support member (12), and a first groove (13). The first sleeve (11) is configured to extend in the longitudinal direction and may have a curved shape and extend in the longitudinal direction to form an internal space through coupling with the second sleeve (21) as described later, and to cover a predetermined portion of the spinal canal within the patient's spine. The first sleeve (11) may have a convex outer surface formed on the outside of the sleeve, a concave inner surface formed on the inside, a first curved surface (11a) in contact with the second sleeve (21), and an indented surface (12a) coupled with the second sleeve (21). The internal space formed by the coupling of the first sleeve (11) and the second sleeve (21) may be a hollow shape extending in a cylindrical shape and may have a radius of about 10 mm. As described below, a first sleeve (11) and a second sleeve (21) of different sizes may be provided so that the radius of the internal space is different.

[0059] Additionally, referring to FIG. 3, the first sleeve (11) of the device may form an indentation surface (12a) that corresponds to the protrusion (22a) of the second sleeve (21) described later. The indentation surface (12a) may be formed complementarily to the protrusion (22a) of the second sleeve (21). A surgeon may combine the indentation surface (12a) of the first sleeve (11) with the protrusion (22a) of the second sleeve (21) to combine the first sleeve (11) and the second sleeve (21) based on the combined surface. The indentation surface (12a) may be understood to have an appropriate shape that mediates the combination with the protrusion (22a).

[0060] The second sleeve (21) of the apparatus may have a substantially identical configuration symmetrical to the first sleeve (11), but as shown in FIG. 3, a protrusion (22a) corresponding to the aforementioned indentation surface (12a) may be formed on the coupling surface.

[0061] The second sleeve (21) may have a protrusion (22a) on one side. In one embodiment, the protrusion (22a) may extend longitudinally along the joining surface of the second sleeve (21) that joins with the first sleeve (11). The cross-sectional shape of the protrusion (22a) protruding from the joining surface of the second sleeve (21) may be one selected from a circular shape, a semicircle, a convex square, or a shape that tapers toward the end having a predetermined central angle, or it may be another cross-sectional shape formed to facilitate joining with the first sleeve (11).

[0062] Referring to FIG. 3, the first sleeve (11) may have a first curved surface (11a) that is convex in the longitudinal direction along the concave inner surface formed on the inside of the first sleeve (11) at the top of the indentation surface (12a), and the second sleeve (21) may have a second curved surface (21a) that is convex in the longitudinal direction along the concave inner surface formed on the inside of the second sleeve (21) at the top of the protrusion (22a).

[0063] The first support member (12) is configured to extend in one direction from both longitudinal sides of the first sleeve (11). The first support member (12) is formed to extend anteriorly from both longitudinal sides of the first sleeve (11), which surrounds a part of the spinal canal, in the direction where a vertebral body with at least a part removed is located, so that the surface formed on both longitudinal ends of the first support member (12) between adjacent vertebral bodies can come into contact with the vertebral body. Through this, the first support member (12) can be inserted between vertebral bodies (V) spaced apart from both longitudinal sides of the first sleeve (11) to support the vertebral body. The length of the first support member (12) extending anteriorly from both longitudinal ends of the first sleeve (11) may be approximately 20 mm, and the extension length may vary in correspondence with the different spinal shape and size of each patient.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, the first support member (12) may be formed such that its extended length and width are widest at the surfaces of both longitudinal ends facing the vertebral body, and the length (L) extended toward the front of the support member and the width (W) corresponding to the extended length gradually decrease. That is, the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first support member (12) may be formed such that it gradually decreases as it moves inward in the longitudinal direction from both longitudinal ends of the first sleeve (11). In order to prevent the stress acting on the first support member (12) from concentrating at one point of the first support member (12) when the first support member (12) supports the vertebral body (V), the first support member (12) may have a smooth curved shape along its perimeter. By forming the cross-sectional area of ​​the first support member (12) to gradually decrease as it moves inward in the longitudinal direction, the load or stress transmitted from the adjacent vertebral body can be transmitted to the support column (32) described later.

[0065] FIG. 4 is a drawing that exemplarily shows the first body (10) and the second body (20) joined together in contact with each other according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 4(a), the first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device each have an inner surface extended in the longitudinal direction formed as a curved surface, thereby forming a space capable of accommodating the spinal cord when combined. In other words, the first support member (12) can be combined with the second support member (22) in a manner similar to how the first sleeve (11) is combined with the second sleeve (21). The inner surface in contact is formed as a curved surface so that the spinal cord or the dura mater surrounding the spinal cord can be protected when the device is inserted.

[0067] Specifically, the first curved surface (11a) of the first body (10) and the second curved surface (21a) of the second body (20) are in contact, and the inner surface is formed as a curved surface to minimize friction with the spinal cord and reduce local pressure applied to the spinal cord.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 4(b), when the first body (10) and the second body (20) are combined, the other ends of the first body (10) and the second body (20) may be formed to be spaced apart from each other.

[0069] Specifically, as the rear ends of the first body (10) and the second body (20) are spaced apart, the mechanism may have an opening extending longitudinally from the rear of the first body (10) and the second body (20).

[0070] At least a portion of the first body (10) and the second body (20) of the apparatus may be formed symmetrically with respect to a surface extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0071] Specifically, the first body (10) and the second body (20) form a symmetrical structure, which provides uniform pressure upon connection and enhances stability between the vertebrae. The symmetrical configuration of the first body (10) and the second body (20) ensures that the device is positioned accurately without deviation after insertion, and evenly distributes the pressure applied to the spinal cord to prevent unnecessary damage. Additionally, since the symmetrical structure provides equal fixation force in the left and right directions, the device can be maintained stably without shaking due to minute movements between the vertebrae or external impacts.

[0072] FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplarily showing the structure of the rear ends of the first body (10) and the second body (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 5, the rear ends of the first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device may have a structure that is bent inward.

[0074] Specifically, the inwardly curved portions of the dorsal ends of the first body (10) and the second body (20) are smoothly connected in a curved shape, and the thickness of the ends gradually decreases. The curvature of the curved portions can be optimized so that the device can naturally interlock when inserted between the vertebrae. For example, the curve of the ends can be designed to match the curvature of the vertebrae.

[0075] Figure 6 is a diagram exemplifying the insertion of the device as it widens the space between the vertebrae.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 6, even if the height of the device inserted from the back is slightly higher than the height of the vertebroplasty site, it forms a structure that is curved inwardly at the dorsal ends of the first body and the second body (20), so that it can naturally enter while widening the space between the vertebrae.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first body (10) and the second body (20) are manufactured in a ready-made size and can be selectively used in correspondence with the height of the vertebral body.

[0078] Specifically, the first body (10) and the second body (20) may be pre-manufactured in various sizes (ready-made sizes) and designed so that a suitable size can be selected according to the patient's vertebral space. The physician may customize the device during surgery by taking into account the patient's individual anatomical structure and condition.

[0079] For example, by providing a variety of this device with different heights and curvatures depending on the height of the vertebral body, the operator's convenience can be enhanced, and a stable structure can be provided by ensuring that the device fits precisely inside the patient's body.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the installation of a cage to replace the vertebral body in the patient's damaged spine in a conventional manner and the installation of a support structure (30) around the spine.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 7, a portion of the vertebral body is removed by approaching from the rear of the patient, and a cage formed of a biocompatible material such as titanium is inserted between adjacent vertebral bodies (V) to replace the removed vertebral body, and subsequently, a support structure (30) can be formed around the spine to ensure stability.

[0082] Specifically, the cage is inserted between adjacent vertebrae (V) to replace the removed vertebra, maintaining the space between the vertebrae and serving to stabilize the vertebral axis. The cage can be manufactured using biocompatible materials such as titanium to maintain long-term stability within the human body. It can be designed with a structure that provides sufficient strength to withstand pressure between vertebrae while simultaneously enhancing fixation through interaction with surrounding tissues. Additionally, the cage is designed to be at the same height as the removed vertebra to accurately align the gap between the vertebrae. Furthermore, to enhance the stability of the device after insertion, the surface in contact with the vertebrae may be treated with a surface treatment that considers adhesion to biological tissues.

[0083] After inserting the cage, a support structure (30) described below may be formed. The support structure (30) extends longitudinally along both sides of the vertebral body and can provide additional fixation force by assisting in the connection between the vertebral body and the cage. The support structure (30) is located at the rear of the vertebral body and serves to prevent the vertebral body from moving. Additionally, the support structure (30) is located on the side of the vertebral body to make the connection between the cage and the vertebral body more secure.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the back surfaces of the first body (10) and the second body (20) include a groove, and the groove may be formed to accommodate a metal rod (40).

[0085] In this regard, FIG. 8 is a diagram exemplarily showing a metal rod (40) being received in the grooves of the first body (10) and the second body (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 8, a groove may be formed on the back surface of the first body (10) and the second body (20) in a longitudinally extended diagonal shape or a shape having curvature. The groove is a structure designed to accommodate a metal rod (40), and the cross-section of the groove has curvature and is formed so that the metal rod (40) is stably positioned.

[0087] The cross-section of the groove may have a diagonal shape or a curvature to provide an insertion space on the back side, and the depth and width of the groove may be designed to precisely match the diameter of the metal rod (40). The grooves of the first body (10) and the second body (20) have a symmetrical structure, and the metal rod (40) serves to connect the first body (10) and the second body (20) within the groove, and the cross-section of the groove may match the diameter of the metal rod (40) and be formed to be continuously connected while maintaining a constant spacing on the back side.

[0088] The device may include a support structure (30) that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body.

[0089] The support structure (30) of the device may include a fixing body (31) that receives the other end of a metal rod (40) that is received across the grooves of the first body (10) and the second body (20), a support column (32) that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body, a fixing screw (33) that is inserted into the vertebral body to fix the support structure (30), and a connecting member (34) that fixes the vertebral body by combining the fixing screw (33) and the support column (32).

[0090] The fixed body (31) receives the other end of the metal rod (40) in the grooves of the first body (10) and the second body (20), and is connected to the support column (32) to stably fix the mechanism. The fixed body (31) includes a groove corresponding to the diameter of the metal rod (40) and can be formed to be in close contact so that the metal rod (40) does not slip inside the fixed body (31). In addition, the part of the fixed body (31) that is connected to the support column (32) can be processed into a square shape to facilitate assembly with the support structure (30).

[0091] The fixed body (31) of the device has a width corresponding to the diameter of the metal rod (40) and may include a fixed body groove formed by indentation.

[0092] Specifically, the fixed body (31) has a body structure of various shapes and may form a fixed body groove that is curved to accommodate a metal rod (40) and an internal space that is cylindrical or part of a cylindrical shape for inserting a support column (32). The fixed body groove has a width and depth corresponding to the diameter of the metal rod (40) and can be designed so that the metal rod (40) is positioned precisely inside the fixed body groove. The internal space that is cylindrical or part of a cylindrical shape is machined to correspond to the diameter of the support column (32) so that the support column (32) can be stably fixed without shaking after insertion. The cross-section of the cylindrical space is circular, and when the support column (32) is combined with the fixed body (31), it forms an integrated structure. The interior of the fixed body (31) can be machined into a flat shape, a curved shape, or a threaded shape that can be tightened by inserting a screw, considering the connection with the support structure (30).

[0093] Additionally, the fixed body (31) can be slidably fastened on both sides of the lateral support column (32) that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body.

[0094] Specifically, the fixed body (31) is positioned across both sides of the support column (32) that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body and is fastened so as to be slidable on the support column (32). A fastening portion for connection with the support column (32) is formed at the lower end of the fixed body (31), and the fastening portion can be in close contact with the cross-section of the support column (32). After the fixed body (31) moves laterally on the support column (32), it can be fixed to the support column (32) using a fixing screw (33) or a fastening means.

[0095] The fixed body (31) is formed such that the internal space of the fastening part aligns with the cross-section of the support column (32) so that it can move along the length of the support column (32), and the position of the fixed body (31) can be finely adjusted as it slides.

[0096] The support column (32) is a structure that extends longitudinally around the vertebral body and is coupled with the fixation body (31), and has a cylindrical shape. The outer surface of the support column (32) may be processed smoothly, or fine protrusions or grooves may be added to increase fastening force if necessary, and the length of the support column (32) may be adjusted according to the height of the vertebral body.

[0097] Additionally, two support columns (32) may be extended in a proximal-distal direction on both sides or left and right sides centered on the patient's spine, and the distance between the support columns (32) may vary depending on the patient's body type or spinal environment.

[0098] The fixing screw (33) is inserted into the vertebral body to firmly secure the connection structure with the support column (32). The body of the screw has a helical thread formed in the longitudinal direction, and this thread can be formed in correspondence with the bone density and strength of the vertebral body. The other end of the fixing screw (33) is made in a pointed shape so that it can easily penetrate the vertebral body when inserted, and the head of the fixing screw (33) is formed in a hexagonal or cross shape so that it can be easily connected with an insertion tool and can be fastened by making flat contact with the support column (32) or the connection member (34). In addition, the fixing screw (33) is made of titanium alloy or stainless steel to ensure strength and durability, and a surface treatment (e.g., an oxide film) may be added for use in the body.

[0099] The connecting member (34) is a structure that serves to integrate the vertebral body and the support structure (30) by connecting the fixing screw (33) and the support column (32). It is designed in a "U" shape or an "L" shape to fasten the upper part of the support column (32) to the fixing screw (33). A circular or elliptical fastening groove into which the fixing screw (33) can be inserted may be formed in the center of the connecting member (34).

[0100] In summary, the support structure (30) can fix the spine by inserting a fixing screw (33) into the vertebral body, extending a support column (32) in an up-down direction or a proximal-distal direction, and then connecting the fixing screw (33) and the support column (32) with a connecting member (34), etc.

[0101] FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplarily showing the mechanism connected to the support structure (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention inserted between the vertebrae.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9, the device is inserted between the vertebrae (V) to maintain a gap and is connected to a support structure (30) to increase the stability of the vertebrae. The device is positioned to be in close contact between the vertebrae, and the fixing body (31) of the support structure (30) is connected through a metal rod (40) connected to a groove located on the dorsal side of the device. The support structure (30) includes a support column (32) extended in the longitudinal direction and a fixing screw (33). The support column (32) is connected to the fixing body (31) on both sides of the vertebrae (V), and the fixing screw (33) fixes the lower end of the support column (32) to the vertebrae (D) to maintain the structure stably. A connecting member (34) firmly connects the fixing screw (33) and the support column (32), making the connection between the support structure (30) and the vertebrae even more robust.

[0103] The first body (10) and the second body (20) of the device include a porous structure, and the porous structure may be formed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the device. In other words, the porous structure may be formed on a portion of the surface where the device contacts the patient's bone.

[0104] In this regard, FIG. 10 is a drawing that exemplarily illustrates the porous structure of a first body (10) and a second body (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 10, a portion of the dorsal surface of the first body (10) and the second body (20) forms a porous structure with an irregular pattern and is distributed over the entire surface. The porous structure is composed of fine holes and ridges, which can increase the surface area and enhance physical bonding strength. In other words, the porous structure is composed of a complex irregular pattern and includes fine holes and ridges on the surface to increase adhesion between the device and the vertebral body. The porous structure is formed on the dorsal surface with consideration for direct bonding with the vertebral body and can provide a structural basis that can be bonded with bone, bone graft material, or bioadhesive material in the body. Additionally, the porous structure can bond with bone cement used in the body environment, allowing the cement to seep into the porous structure and form a strong mechanical bond between the device and the vertebral body.

[0106] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical concept or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form.

[0107] The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and the concept of equivalents thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism, It includes a first body and a second body extending in the longitudinal direction, and The first body and the second body are joined so as to approach each other to form an internal space extending longitudinally between the first body and the second body, and to accommodate a spinal cord in the internal space. A vertebral body space maintenance and spinal cord protection device characterized in that the first body and the second body have a structure in which the dorsal end is bent inward.

2. In Paragraph 1, A vertebral body interspace maintenance and spinal cord protection device in which the inner surface where the first body and the second body are joined and in contact is formed as a curved surface.

3. In Paragraph 2, A vertebral body space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism, wherein when the first body and the second body are combined, the other directional ends of the first body and the second body are formed to be spaced apart from each other.

4. In Paragraph 3, A vertebral body interspace maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism, wherein at least a portion of the first body and the second body is formed symmetrically with respect to a longitudinally extending surface.

5. In Paragraph 1, A vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device wherein the first body and the second body are manufactured in a ready-made size and are used selectively in correspondence with the height of the vertebral body.

6. In Paragraph 1, The rear surfaces of the first body and the second body include a groove, A vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection device in which the above-mentioned groove is formed to accommodate a metal rod.

7. In Paragraph 6, A vertebral interspace maintenance and spinal cord protection device in which the cross-section of the above-mentioned groove is formed in a diagonal shape or a shape having curvature.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above-mentioned intervertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism is, A vertebral space maintenance and spinal cord protection mechanism that further includes a supporting structure extending longitudinally around the vertebral body.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above support structure is, A fixing body that accommodates the other end of the metal rod, which is accommodated across the grooves of the first body and the second body; A support column extending longitudinally around the vertebral body; A fixing screw inserted into the above-mentioned vertebral body to fix the above-mentioned support structure; and A vertebral body space maintenance and spinal cord protection device comprising a coupling member that fixes the spine by combining the above-mentioned fixing screw and the above-mentioned support column.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above fixed body is, A vertebral body space maintenance and spinal cord protection device that is slidably fastened on both transverse sides of the support column extending longitudinally around the vertebral body.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above fixed body is, A vertebral body interspace maintenance and spinal cord protection device having a width corresponding to the diameter of the metal rod and including a fixed groove formed indented therein.

12. In Paragraph 1, The first body and the second body include a porous structure, A vertebral interspace maintaining and spinal cord protection mechanism, wherein the above porous structure is formed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the vertebral interspace maintaining and spinal cord protection mechanism.

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