NuVasive, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150265319 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Spinal Stenosis - Surgical implants are configured for placement posteriorly to a spinal canal between vertebral bodies to distract the spine and enlarge the spinal canal. In the preferred embodiments the device permits spinal flexion while limiting spinal extension, thereby providing an effective treatment for treating spinal stenosis without the need for laminectomy. The invention may be used in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine. Numerous embodiments are disclosed, including elongated, length-adjustable components coupled to adjacent vertebral bodies using pedicle screws. The preferred embodiments, however, teach a device configured for placement between adjacent vertebral bodies and adapted to fuse to the lamina, facet, spinous process or other posterior elements of a single vertebra. Various mechanisms, including shape, porosity, tethers, and bone-growth promoting substances may be used to enhance fusion. The tether may be a wire, cable, suture, or other single or multi-filament member. Preferably, the device forms a pseudo-joint in conjunction with the non-fused vertebra. Alternatively, the device could be fused to the caudal vertebra or both the cranial and caudal vertebrae. | 09-24-2015 |
20150105624 | Surgical access system and related methods - A surgical access system and related methods which involve the ability to minimally invasively provide an operative corridor to a disk space while simultaneously providing the ability to distract the disk space. The access system comprises a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly. The tissue distraction assembly (in conjunction with one or more elements of the tissue retraction assembly) is capable of, as an initial step, distracting a region of tissue between the skin of the patient and the surgical target site. The tissue retraction assembly is capable of, as a secondary step, being introduced into this distracted region to thereby define and establish the operative corridor. Once established, any of a variety of surgical instruments, devices, or implants may be passed through and/or manipulated within the operative corridor depending upon the given surgical procedure. | 04-16-2015 |
20140275800 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-18-2014 |
20140249446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING SURGICAL PROCEDURES AND ASSESSMENTS - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 09-04-2014 |
20140235950 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 08-21-2014 |
20140180423 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR SPINAL FUSION - A spinal fusion system and related methods involve the use of a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction. The spinal fusion implant is particularly suited for introduction into the disc space via a lateral approach to the spine. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180016 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-26-2014 |
20140156006 | Vertebral Body Replacement - The present invention involves a system and methods for assembling and implanting a vertebral body implant. The vertebral body implant includes, but is not necessarily limited to, an expandable core body and endplates that can be attached at both ends. Endplates of various shapes, sizes and angles are attachable to the expandable core in a plurality of positions so that a suitable vertebral body implant can be implanted between vertebrae from an anterior, anterior-lateral, lateral, posterior or posterior-lateral approach. | 06-05-2014 |
20140148908 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SPINAL FUSION - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148796 | System and Methods for Assessing the Neuromuscular Pathway Prior to Nerve Testing - The present invention involves a system and methods for assessing the state of the neuromuscular pathway to ensure further nerve tests aimed at detecting at least one of a breach in a pedicle wall, nerve proximity, nerve direction, and nerve pathology, are not conducted when neuromuscular blockade levels may decrease the reliability of the results. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148650 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148649 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-29-2014 |
20140137618 | Systems, Devices, and Methods for Designing and Forming a Surgical Implant - A method is provided for determining the shape of a surgical linking device that is to be attached to a bony body structure such as the spinal column based on digitized locations of a plurality of attachment elements engaged to the bony structure. The method is implemented by a computer system through a GUI to generate an initial bend curve to mate with the plurality of attachment elements. The initial bend curve may be simplified based on user input to the GUI to reduce the number of bends necessary to produce a well-fitting linking device and may be altered to help obtain the goals of surgery. | 05-22-2014 |
20140135584 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system comprising a tissue dilation assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures. A retractor assembly for creating an operative corridor to a spinal surgical target site is disclosed, comprising: a retractor body and a plurality retractor blades extending generally perpendicularly to the retractor body, the retractor body being operable to separate the at plurality of retractor blades relative to each; and a supplemental retractor blade assembly attachable to at least two of the plurality of retractor blades, the supplemental retractor blade assembly comprising an elongated supplemental retractor blade and a crossbar connector, the crossbar connector configured to be attached to said at least two retractor blades while engaging the supplemental retractor blade. | 05-15-2014 |
20140094915 | VERTEBRAL DISC PROSTHESIS - A prosthesis for a vertebral column has an upper part ( | 04-03-2014 |
20140058206 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. Some embodiments of the surgical access system may be particularly suited for establishing an operative corridor to a surgical target site in the spine. Such an operative corridor may be established through the retroperitoneal space and the psoas muscle during a direct lateral, retroperitoneal approach to the spine. | 02-27-2014 |
20140052263 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 02-20-2014 |
20140039269 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 02-06-2014 |
20140024963 | Surgical Access and Nerve Surveillance - An expandable tip cannula system, comprising: a hollow cannula shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and an expandable tip mounted at the distal end of the hollow cannula shaft, the expandable tip comprising a plurality of generally-triangular shaped petals held together in a radially-inwardly tapered arrangement between adjacent petals, each petal comprising a nerve sensing electrode disposed therein. | 01-23-2014 |
20140018695 | Multi-Channel Stimulation Threshold Detection Algorithm for use with Neurophysiology Monitoring Systems - The present invention relates generally to an algorithm aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to an algorithm capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018633 | Method and Apparatus for Performing Spinal Surgery - Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine. | 01-16-2014 |
20140012089 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012088 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 01-09-2014 |
20130331943 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT - The present invention involves a system and methods for assembling and implanting a vertebral body implant. The vertebral body implant includes, but is not necessarily limited to, an expandable core body and endplates that can be attached at both ends. Endplates of various shapes, sizes and angles are attachable to the expandable core so that a suitable vertebral body implant can be implanted between vertebrae. | 12-12-2013 |
20130317311 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317304 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 11-28-2013 |
20130274887 | Stackable Spinal Support System - A system for distracting two tissue surfaces away from one another within a spine, involving a plurality of biocompatible and generally rectangular spinal inserts configured to be successively stacked within a spine to distract the two tissues surfaces away from one another. Each spinal insert has a generally planar top surface having a leading edge and a trailing edge, a generally planar bottom surface disposed generally parallel to the top surface and including a leading edge and a trailing edge, and a beveled surface extending from at least one of the leading edge of the planar top surface and the leading edge of the planar bottom surface. The beveled surface is configured to allow a currently inserted spinal insert to be positioned at least one of above and below a previously introduced spinal insert to distract the two tissue surfaces. | 10-17-2013 |
20130237765 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-12-2013 |
20130231537 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-05-2013 |
20130178758 | Electromyography System - Methods for determining structural integrity of a bone within the spine of a patient, the bone having a first aspect and a second aspect, wherein the second aspect separated from the first aspect by a width and located adjacent to a spinal nerve. The methods involve (a) applying an electrical stimulus to the first aspect of the bone; (b) electrically monitoring a muscle myotome associated with the spinal nerve to detect if an onset neuro-muscular response occurs in response to the application of the electrical stimulus to the first aspect of the bone; (c) automatically increasing the magnitude of the electrical stimulus to until the onset neuro-muscular response is detected; and (d) communicating to a user via at least one of visual and audible means information representing the magnitude of the electrical stimulus which caused the onset neuro-muscular response. | 07-11-2013 |
20130165814 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING NERVE PROXIMITY, DIRECTION AND PATHOLOGY DURING SURGERY - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 06-27-2013 |
20130158357 | System and Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 06-20-2013 |
20130150679 | System and Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150678 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150677 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150676 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130144390 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144127 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-06-2013 |
20130138216 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137931 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-30-2013 |
20130131456 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-23-2013 |
20130060288 | METHODS AND INSTRUMENTATION FOR ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY - Surgical instruments and methods aimed at the proper placement and installation of textile-based orthopedic implants. More specifically, the surgical instruments include a flexible template, insertion instrument and multi-pronged awl. The flexible template may be formed of a combination of rigid and flexible materials and is deformable to match the contour of the target anatomy for subsequent placement of a textile-based orthopedic implant. The insertion instrument has a handle and a template end used for holding the flexible template and textile-based implant. The template end has one or apertures with hollow cylindrical extensions for holding the flexible template or textile-based implant and one or more cutout regions for better visualization and affixation of fixation screws. An awl is also provided with one or more prongs to initiate channels for the fixation screws. A method of implanting a textile-based orthopedic implant is also disclosed. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060092 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 03-07-2013 |
20120303125 | System And Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 11-29-2012 |
20120301248 | System and Method for Fastening Objects Together - A fastener device for fastening two or more objects together, and more particularly a fastener device of the type that incorporates a pin having an undulating section and a corresponding mating housing having a resilient biasing member for fixing the mating housing along a desired position on the pin. The mating housing can be caused to permanently lock onto the pin or can be removable from the pin. | 11-29-2012 |
20120296377 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Spinal Stenosis - This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis. | 11-22-2012 |
20120271359 | BONE PLATE SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A bone plate system for use in an “open door” laminoplasty procedure, including a bone plate, a first fixation element, and at least one second fixation element. The bone plate is elongated and has a generally curved shape such that the plate has an associated radius of curvature. The plate is sized and dimensioned to span a gap between a pair of bony segments, for example a pair of bony segments constituting a divided lamina. The first and second fixation elements are each configured to securely attach the bone plate to the bony segments. The bone plate has a first end including a generally U-shaped slot extending therein such that the open end of the slot comprises a first terminal end of the plate. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271191 | Multi-Channel Stimulation Detection Algorithm for Use with Neurophysiology Monitoring Systems - The present invention relates generally to an algorithm aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to an algorithm capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system. | 10-25-2012 |
20120238895 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-20-2012 |
20120238893 | System and Methods for Determining Nerve Direction to a Surgical Instrument | 09-20-2012 |
20120238822 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-20-2012 |
20120226106 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-06-2012 |
20120220891 | System and Methods for Determining Nerve Proximity, Direction, and Pathology During Surgery - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 08-30-2012 |
20120215317 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 08-23-2012 |
20120209388 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 08-16-2012 |
20120130432 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Spinal Stenosis - Surgical implants are configured for placement posteriorly to a spinal canal between vertebral bodies to distract the spine and enlarge the spinal canal. The device permits spinal flexion while limiting spinal extension thereby providing an effective treatment for treating spinal stenosis without the need for laminectomy. The device may be used in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine. Numerous embodiments are disclosed, including elongated, length-adjustable components coupled to adjacent vertebral bodies using pedicle screws. The device is configured for placement between adjacent vertebral bodies and adapted to fuse the lamina, facet, spinous process or other posterior elements of a single vertebra. Preferably, the device forms a pseudo-joint in conjunction with the non-fused vertebra. Alternatively, the device could be fused to the caudal vertebra or both the cranial and caudal vertebrae. | 05-24-2012 |
20120109000 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING NERVE PROXIMITY, DIRECTION, AND PATHOLOGY DURING SURGERY - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 05-03-2012 |
20110313530 | System And Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 12-22-2011 |
20110313312 | Tissue Discrimination and Applications in Medical Procedures - A system and method for discriminating tissue types, controlling the level of therapy to tissue, and determining the health of a known tissue by measuring the characteristics of an electrical signal applied to a conductive element located within or by the tissue. Additionally, the system and method may be used for determining whether the conductive tip of a pedicle probe or pedicle screw is located in one of cortical bone, cancellous bone, and cortical bone near a boundary with soft tissue, whether the conductive tip of a cannula is located adjacent to one of nerve tissue and annulus tissue, and whether the conductive tip of a cathode is located adjacent to one of nerve tissue and prostate gland tissue. | 12-22-2011 |
20110276147 | Bone Graft Substitutes and Methods Thereof - An osteoinductive bone graft substitute composition that does not return to its original shape upon hydration or manipulation is disclosed, comprising, in combination, about 86-89% by weight of a calcium phosphate particulate mineral component and about 11-14% by weight of a purified fibrillar collagen, the mineral component including about 20% to about 60% by weight of hydroxyapatite and about 60% to about 20% by weight of tricalcium phosphate. A package configured to store a bone graft composition is disclosed, comprising an inner sterile polymeric V-shaped pouch located in an outer sterile polymeric V-shaped pouch. Methods for repairing a bone defect in a patient are disclosed using the osteoinductive bone graft substitute composition. | 11-10-2011 |
20110218632 | SURGICAL IMPLANTS - Systems and methods for replacement of an intervertebral disc are provided. The spinal implant comprises an elastomeric material that has been treated with an additive to decrease the ability of emissions to pass through the elastomeric material and to increase at least one of wear resistance, stiffness, and Shore hardness of the elastomeric material. The additive may be a barium-containing compound, one or more metals, or one or more x-ray opaque materials. The additive may be included in certain localities of the implant. A series of implants may be provided with different sizes and different structural properties that mimic the stiffness and shock absorbing properties of the natural intervertebral disc to be replaced. | 09-08-2011 |
20110208309 | Spinal Fusion Implant and Related Methods - A spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction adapted to be introduced into any variety of spinal target sites, in particular the lumbar spine via a transforaminal surgical approach. | 08-25-2011 |
20110196210 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 08-11-2011 |
20110184308 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING NERVE PROXIMITY, DIRECTION, AND PATHOLOGY DURING SURGERY - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 07-28-2011 |
20110144439 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-16-2011 |
20110130793 | Method and apparatus for performing spinal surgery - Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine. | 06-02-2011 |
20110125266 | Spinal Surgical Implant and Related Methods - This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to a surgical implant for separating adjacent spinal vertebrae. | 05-26-2011 |
20110112642 | SPINAL FUSION IMPLANT AND RELATED METHODS - A spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction to be introduced into any variety of spinal target sites. The spinal fusion implant of the present invention includes a top surface, a bottom surface, first and second lateral sides, a proximal (posterior) end and a distal (anterior) end. The spinal fusion implant of the present invention may be used to provide temporary or permanent fixation within an orthopedic target site. To do so, the spinal fusion implant may be introduced into a disc space while locked to a surgical insertion instrument and thereafter employed in the proper orientation and released. Once deposited in the disc space, the spinal fusion implant of the present invention effects spinal fusion over time as the natural healing process integrates and binds the implant. | 05-12-2011 |
20110098746 | Methods and Apparatus For Treating Spinal Stenosis - This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis with a spinous process spacer and an overlay designed to extend between the superior and inferior spinous processes in order to restore the integrity and functional benefits of the supraspinous ligament. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098535 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. Some embodiments of the surgical access system may be particularly suited for establishing an operative corridor to a surgical target site in the spine. Such an operative corridor may be established through the retroperitoneal space and the psoas muscle during a direct lateral, retroperitoneal approach to the spine. | 04-28-2011 |
20100317989 | Systems and Methods for Performing Neurophysiologic Assesments With Pressure Monitoring - Systems and methods for performing neurophysiologic assessments of neural tissue including nerve pathology monitoring which may or may not be augmented by adding the ability to assess or monitor the pressure being exerted upon a nerve or nerve root before, during and/or after retraction. | 12-16-2010 |
20100312290 | Bone Blocks and Methods for Inserting Bone Blocks Into Intervertebral Spaces - A bone block for insertion into a patient's intervertebral space. A method for inserting a bone block into a patient's intervertebral space, comprising: supporting the bone block in an inserter; advancing the inserter into the intervertebral space; rotating the inserter, thereby separating adjacent vertebrae; separating the bone block and the inserter with a push rod; and removing the inserter from the intervertebral space. | 12-09-2010 |
20100228292 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION - A dynamic stabilization system including a dynamic rod with a first and second coupler assemblies, a pre-tensioned central cord and a flexible bumper, which are coupled to the bony structures of the spine by way of pedicle screws for use in spinal fixation surgery. | 09-09-2010 |
20100174148 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 07-08-2010 |
20100160738 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-24-2010 |
20100152604 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING NERVE PROXIMITY, DIRECTION, AND PATHOLOGY DURING SURGERY - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 06-17-2010 |
20100152603 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-17-2010 |
20100137690 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-03-2010 |
20100130827 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. Some embodiments of the surgical access system may be particularly suited for establishing an operative corridor to a surgical target site in the spine. Such an operative corridor may be established through the retroperitoneal space and the psoas muscle during a direct lateral, retroperitoneal approach to the spine. | 05-27-2010 |
20100105987 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHOD - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 04-29-2010 |
20100105986 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 04-29-2010 |
20100094093 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 04-15-2010 |
20100069783 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 03-18-2010 |
20100049081 | Tissue Discrimination and Applications in Medical Procedures - A system and method for discriminating tissue types, controlling the level of therapy to tissue, and determining the health or a known tissue by measuring the characteristics an electrical signal applied to conductive element located within or by the tissue. Additionally, the system and method may be used for determining whether the conductive tip of a pedicle probe or pedicle screw is located in one of cortical bone, cancellous bone, and cortical bone near a boundary with soft tissue, whether the conductive tip of a cannula is located adjacent to one of nerve tissue and annulus tissue, and whether the conductive tip of a cathode is located adjacent to one of nerve tissue and prostate gland tissue. | 02-25-2010 |
20090259108 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 10-15-2009 |
20090209879 | System and Methods for Determining Nerve Proximity, Direction, and Pathology During Surgery - The present invention involves systems and methods for determining nerve proximity, nerve direction, and pathology relative to a surgical instrument based on an identified relationship between neuromuscular responses and the stimulation signal that caused the neuromuscular responses. | 08-20-2009 |
20090204176 | System and Methods for Performing Percutaneous Pedicle Integrity Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing percutaneous pedicle integrity assessments involving the use of neurophysiology. | 08-13-2009 |
20090204016 | System And Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 08-13-2009 |
20090198339 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SPINAL FUSION - An implantable intervertebral fusion cage including a removable means for retaining material inside of the cage during implantation. Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward an implantable intervertebral fusion cage that includes at least one removable shield or veneer that is capable of retaining a surgically useful material, such as a spinal fusion-inducing material, inside of the fusion cage during implantation and/or until the shield or veneer is removed. | 08-06-2009 |
20090192403 | System And Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 07-30-2009 |
20090138082 | Textile-Based Plate Implant and Related Methods - A textile-based plate implant (and related methods) that supports tissue ingrowth within the implanted implant structure and is suitable for use in a variety of surgical applications, including but not limited to anterior, posterior and lateral surgical approaches directed towards the lumbar, thoracic and cervical regions of the spine. | 05-28-2009 |
20090138050 | NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL APPARATUS AND PROCEDURES - Neurophysiological instruments and techniques are improved through various enhancements. Stimulation of an instrument is possible while it is advancing into the spine or elsewhere, alerting the surgeon to the first sign the instrument or device (screw) may be too near a nerve. A directional probe helps surgeons determine the location of the hole in the pedicle. Electrically insulating sleeves prevent shunting into the soft tissues. According to a different improvement, the same probe to be used to stimulate different devices, such as screws and wires. Electrical impulses may be recorded from non-muscle regions of the body, including the spine and other portions of the central nervous system as opposed to just the extremities. | 05-28-2009 |
20090124860 | Surgical access system and related methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-14-2009 |
20090105604 | System and Methods for Monitoring During Anterior Surgery - The present invention involves a system and methods for nerve testing during anterior surgery, including but not limited to anterior total disc replacement surgery, nucleus replacement, and interbody fusion. | 04-23-2009 |
20090054804 | Neurophysiologic monitoring system - The present invention relates to a system and methods generally aimed at surgery. More particularly, the present invention is directed at a system and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments involving the use of neurophysiology. | 02-26-2009 |
20090048677 | Bioresorbable Spinal Implant and Related Methods - A prosthesis for the replacement of an intervertebral disc of the spine comprises a block of an elastomeric material, which is held under compression by an encapsulating textile fabric. A preferred version of the invention has flanges that are continuations of the encapsulating fabric forming an interdigitation, with the continuation of the upper fabric passing through a hole in the lower fabric and being attached to the lower vertebral body and the continuation of the lower fabric crossing to its fixation site on the upper vertebral body. Optionally, the flanges are resorbable, over time leaving only the implant core and encapsulation fabric in the intervertebral space. | 02-19-2009 |
20090018658 | Methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis - This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis. | 01-15-2009 |
20080228230 | Hinged Bone Plate and Related Methods - A bone plate system comprising a thin plate and fasteners for securing the plate to at least two segments of bone. The plate may be hinged along the central axis, with a pair of collinear holes on each portion of the plate. Each of the holes accommodates a bolt which is screwed into the bone and secured to the plate using a nut. | 09-18-2008 |