초록 ▼

An apparatus and method for implanting an articulated spinal fusion cage into the intervertebral space and adjusting the cage in situ to support the adjacent vertebrae in a normal curved alignment. The invention provides a greatly improved modular cage system having a base unit with a pair of socket

An apparatus and method for implanting an articulated spinal fusion cage into the intervertebral space and adjusting the cage in situ to support the adjacent vertebrae in a normal curved alignment. The invention provides a greatly improved modular cage system having a base unit with a pair of sockets for receiving the ends of a pair of legs. The sockets permit pivotal movement of the legs about a posterior fulcrum from a closed, parallel insertion position to an anteriorly open, wedge-shaped orientation. The base has a threaded bore for receiving a driver, which is operable to urge the anterior ends of the legs apart as well as to support the front of the installed fusion cage. Interchangeable drivers are provided having various sized tips. The interior end surface of each leg unit includes a driver-receiving groove for providing torsional stability. Alternatively, a pair of pins and bores are provided on the inner surfaces of the opposed ends for receiving a driver tip. In certain embodiments the base is of integral construction with one of the legs, and includes a socket for receiving a pivot end of the second leg.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An apparatus for positioning between adjacent vertebrae and comprising:a) a fusion cage having a first leg and a second leg, each leg having a first end, a second end and a support surface therebetween, said first ends being expandably coupled, said cage being implantable between adjacent vertebr

1. An apparatus for positioning between adjacent vertebrae and comprising:a) a fusion cage having a first leg and a second leg, each leg having a first end, a second end and a support surface therebetween, said first ends being expandably coupled, said cage being implantable between adjacent vertebrae with said support surfaces of said legs engaging said vertebrae; b) said second leg including a bore and a socket for receiving said first leg second end and permitting pivotal movement within said socket; and c) a driver received within said bore and operable for urging said first ends apart and pivoting said second end for moving said first support surface of said fusion cage to form a selected angle.