초록 ▼

Method and apparatus for promoting a spinal fusion between neighboring vertebrae. Apparatus may be located within the intervertebral disc space and preferably includes a pair of engaging plates for contacting the vertebrae. An alignment device may be used to alter the vertical distance between the e

Method and apparatus for promoting a spinal fusion between neighboring vertebrae. Apparatus may be located within the intervertebral disc space and preferably includes a pair of engaging plates for contacting the vertebrae. An alignment device may be used to alter the vertical distance between the engaging plates to customize the apparatus to fit a given patient. In one embodiment, the alignment device includes a pair of struts having a predetermined height and extending between the engaging plates from an anterior end to a posterior end of the apparatus. In another embodiment, the alignment device includes a rotatable connector and cam pins for adjusting the distance between the engaging plates. The alignment device is preferably adapted to vary the distance between the engaging plates such that the height of the apparatus proximate the anterior end is greater than that proximate the posterior end whereby the natural lordosis of the spine is maintained after the apparatus is installed. The apparatus may further include a load-sharing member to allow stress to be imparted to bone in the vicinity of the apparatus to promote bone growth in accordance with Wolff's law.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A spinal implant for facilitating a fusion between neighboring vertebrae of a human spine, comprising:an anterior end opposite a posterior end;a pair of engaging plates adapted to fit between and engage the vertebrae to maintain a disk space between the vertebrae during u

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A spinal implant for facilitating a fusion between neighboring vertebrae of a human spine, comprising:an anterior end opposite a posterior end;a pair of engaging plates adapted to fit between and engage the vertebrae to maintain a disk space between the vertebrae during use; andan alignment device positionable between the engaging plates; rein the alignment device comprises a strut extending between the engaging plates during use, the strut comprising a hinge to allow an upper member of the strut to pivot with respect to a lower member of the strut, during use.