53 results about "Spinal anatomy" patented technology

Devices, systems and methods are provided for stimulation of tissues and structures within a body of a patient. In particular, implantable leads are provided which are comprised of a flexible circuit. Typically, the flexible circuit includes an array of conductors bonded to a thin dielectric film. Example dielectric films include polyimide, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) or other biocompatible materials to name a few. Such leads are particularly suitable for stimulation of the spinal anatomy, more particularly suitable for stimulation of specific nerve anatomies, such as the dorsal root (optionally including the dorsal root ganglion).

In one embodiment of the invention, an anterior fixation system includes a plate defining a plurality of screw holes, a number of screws and a number of locking assemblies for fixing the screws to the plate. The system includes two bone screws a fixed angle screw and a variable angle screw, that are configured to extend through the same screw openings in the fixation plate. The surgeon can select either the fixed or variable angled screws to be implanted with a single plate and can place either type of screw into any of the screw holes along the plate. The fixation plate according to the invention can include several screw holes in various patterns that provide the surgeon with great flexibility in the placement of bone screws depending upon the spinal anatomy and pathology. The invention further contemplates a locking assembly to lock one or more bone screws within a respective screw hole. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is held to the plate by a staked locking screw. The washer includes an outer surface that overlaps one or more screw holes. The washer is initially loosely held to the plate by the locking screw so that various tools and bone screws can be passed through the screw holes. In one embodiment of the washer, the washer includes cut-outs corresponding to the screw holes, along with a notch and key configuration for setting the locking washer in its locked configuration.

Devices, systems and methods are provided for simultaneously stimulating the spinal anatomy at various locations, such as spinal levels, along the spinal cord. By stimulating multiple levels of the spinal column with the use of a single device, a single access path is created to an implantable pulse generator (IPG) rather than individual access paths for each lead at each spinal level to an IPG. By reducing the number of pathways, the procedure complexity, time and recovery are reduced. In addition, some embodiments provide additional specificity within each targeted level, such as selective stimulation of specific tissue, such as the dorsal root ganglion.

An interbody fusion device in one embodiment includes a tapered body defining a hollow interior for receiving bone graft or bone substitute material. The body defines exterior threads which are interrupted over portions of the outer surface of the device. The fusion device defines truncated side walls so that on end view the body takes on a cylindrical form. The side walls are provided with vascularization openings, and the body wall device includes opposite bone ingrowth slots extending through the interrupted thread portion of the body. In another embodiment, the tapered body is solid and formed of a porous biocompatible material having sufficient structural integrity to maintain the intradiscal space and normal curvature. The material is preferably a porous tantalum having fully interconnected pores to facilitate complete bone tissue ingrowth into the implant. An implant driver is provided which engages the truncated side walls to complete the cylindrical form of the implant at the root diameter of the interrupted threads, to thereby facilitate threaded insertion of the implant to the intra-discal space between adjacent vertebrae. Methods for posterior and anterior insertion of the fusion device are also disclosed.

The present invention is directed generally to systems, devices and methods for direct delivery of agents, e.g., pharmaceutical agents, to target spinal and neuronal anatomies, e.g., the dorsal root ganglia (DRG), for the treatment of various disorders, particularly pain and pain related disorders, such as chronic itch, sensory disorders, multiple sclerosis, post-herpetic neuralgia and the like. The system, devices and methods of the invention encompass the agents to be delivered to the target anatomy alone or in combination with electrical stimulation. The delivery device and systems and methods as disclosed herein place the distal end of the delivery element, which comprises at least one agent delivery structure, and optionally at least one electrode, in close proximity, or in contact with or next to the target spinal anatomy, e.g., DRG. A variety of agents can be delivered using the device, including sodium channel blockers, biologics, neuroinflammatory modulators, toxins etc., to selectively neuromodulate the neurons. Agent delivery and / or electrical stimulation can be automated and / or can be controlled automatically or by a pre-determined program, or by a patient control pump (PCA).

A method for modeling a spine, comprising providing at least one image of the spine, extracting a plurality of anatomical elements of the spine from the at least one image, and constructing a model representing the anatomy of the spine using the anatomical elements.

A dynamic spinal stabilization component which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The component is selectably attachable to a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The component and bone anchor provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a centering spring. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

Devices, systems and methods for treating pain or other conditions while minimizing possible complications and side effects. Treatment typically includes electrical stimulation and / or delivery of pharmacological or other agents with the use of a lead or catheter. The devices, systems and methods provide improved anchoring which reduces migration of the lead yet allows for easy repositioning or removal of the lead if desired. The devices, systems and methods also provide for simultaneous treatment of multiple targeted anatomies. This shortens procedure time and allows for less access points, such as needle sticks to the epidural space, which in turn reduces complications, such as cerebral spinal fluid leaks, patient soreness and recovery time. Other possible complications related to the placement of multiple devices are also reduced.

A dynamic spine stabilization component suitable for use in stabilizing of the spine. The component is selectably attachable to a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connectable to a bone anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant member. The force / deflection properties of the deflectable post may be adapted to the functional requirements and anatomy of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component, when secured to a bone anchor, provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchor and spinal anatomy.

Devices, systems and methods are provided for simultaneously stimulating the spinal anatomy at various target locations, such as spinal levels, along the spinal cord. In some embodiments, the devices, systems and methods stimulate the various spinal levels at specific nerve anatomies, such as the dorsal root DR or more specifically the dorsal root ganglion DRG. Optionally, the devices, systems and methods may be used to stimulate a single DRG or other anatomies.

A spinal implant device having an anatomical shape designed to mimic and restore normal human spinal anatomy. The devices comes in a range of sizes and are structured to specifically accommodate the structure of at least one of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine. Once affixed to the vertebrae, the devices may be used to effectively fuse two or more vertebrae, or to stabilize the vertebrae and protect the posterior portions of the spinal cord. Adjustments for sagittal plane contouring may also be effected through cable tensioning via spinous process fixation.

Versatile polyaxial connector assemblies are provided for a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system include versatile polyaxial connectors in addition to bone anchors, a deflection system and a vertical rod system. The bone anchors connect the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The vertical rod system spans different levels of the construct. The versatile polyaxial connectors include connectors mounted coaxially and / or offset with the bone anchors to adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and bone anchors allowing for safe, effective and efficient placement of the construct relative to the spine.

An adaptive spinal rod is provided for connecting levels of an adaptive stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the adaptive stabilization rod include a ball having an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides adaptive stabilization and load-sharing. The adaptive spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The adaptive spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

Devices, systems and methods for treating pain or other conditions while minimizing possible complications and side effects. Treatment typically includes electrical stimulation and / or delivery of pharmacological or other agents with the use of a lead or catheter. The devices, systems and methods provide improved anchoring which reduces migration of the lead yet allows for easy repositioning or removal of the lead if desired. The devices, systems and methods also provide for simultaneous treatment of multiple targeted anatomies. This shortens procedure time and allows for less access points, such as needle sticks to the epidural space, which in turn reduces complications, such as cerebral spinal fluid leaks, patient soreness and recovery time. Other possible complications related to the placement of multiple devices are also reduced.

A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a durability enhanced compliant sleeve. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

An adaptive spinal rod is provided for connecting levels of an adaptive stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the adaptive stabilization rod include a ball having an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides adaptive stabilization and load-sharing. The adaptive spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The adaptive spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

A dynamic spinal stabilization component which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The component may be integrated in a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The component and bone anchor provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by an axially compressible spring. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant member. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor has splines on the outside of the housing to facilitate installation and the secure attachment of spine stabilization components.

In one embodiment of the invention, an anterior fixation system includes a plate defining a plurality of screw holes, a number of screws and a number of locking assemblies for fixing the screws to the plate. The system includes two bone screws, a fixed angle screw and a variable angle screw, that are configured to extend through the same screw openings in the fixation plate. The surgeon can select either the fixed or variable angled screws to be implanted with a single plate and can place either type of screw into any of the screw holes along the plate. The fixation plate according to the invention can include several screw holes in various patterns that provide the surgeon with great flexibility in the placement of bone screws depending upon the spinal anatomy and pathology. The invention further contemplates a locking assembly to lock one or more bone screws within a respective screw hole. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is held to the plate by a staked locking screw. The washer includes an outer surface that overlaps one or more screw holes. The washer is initially loosely held to the plate by the locking screw so that various tools and bone screws can be passed through the screw holes. In one embodiment of the washer, the washer includes cut-outs corresponding to the screw holes, along with a notch and key configuration for setting the locking washer in its locked configuration.

A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant member. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor has splines on the outside of the housing to facilitate installation and the secure attachment of spine stabilization components.

A spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The spine stabilization prosthesis incorporates a bone anchor having a deflectable post and a compound spinal rod which provide for load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a bone screw. The compound spinal rod includes a coupling mounted to the deflectable post and connected by a pivoting joint to a rod. The combined motions of the ball-joint and the pivoting joint support a range of motion of adjacent vertebrae which closely approximates the natural range of motion of the spine.

A versatile offset connector for connecting components of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The anchor system anchors the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The connection system includes coaxial connectors and offset connectors which adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and anchor system allowing for appropriate, efficient and convenient placement of the anchor system relative to the spine.

A dynamic spinal stabilization component which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The component may be integrated in a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The component and bone anchor provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by an axially compressible spring. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant sleeve. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

A versatile dynamic spinal rod and bone anchor assembly for use in a dynamic stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. The dynamic rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The dynamic rod is connected to the dynamic bone anchor by a joint which permits relative movement of the deflectable post and rod reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

An adaptive spinal rod is provided for connecting levels of an adaptive stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the adaptive stabilization rod include a ball having an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides adaptive stabilization and load-sharing. The adaptive spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The adaptive spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant ring. The force / deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

A configurable dynamic spinal rod for connecting levels of a dynamic stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization and load-sharing. The dynamic spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The dynamic spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. A configurable lock is provided which can selectably lock an angle between the dynamic spinal rod and a dynamic bone anchor.