Adaptive Intervertebral Fusion System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation intervertebral fusion system that integrates advanced technologies, such as adaptive geometry, artificial intelligence, energy harvesting, and bio-absorbable materials, to revolutionize the treatment of spinal disorders.
Background and Problem Solved
The original expandable fusion device has limitations in terms of its fixed geometry, lack of real-time feedback, and limited ability to adapt to individual patient needs. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a more dynamic, intelligent, and patient-centric approach to intervertebral fusion.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive intervertebral fusion system comprises a fusion device with adaptive geometry that adjusts its shape and size in real-time based on feedback from sensors monitoring the intervertebral disc space. The system may also include a bio-absorbable fusion device that gradually releases bone growth inducing factors and biocompatible materials to facilitate a seamless fusion process. Additionally, the system may incorporate a self-sustaining energy harvesting system that powers a micro-electromechanical system to facilitate bone growth and fusion. The system may further include a fusion device with integrated artificial intelligence that analyzes patient-specific data and optimizes the fusion process in real-time, providing personalized treatment and minimizing the risk of complications. The system may also comprise interchangeable components that can be customized to accommodate different patient anatomies and spinal conditions.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in intervertebral fusion technology by integrating advanced technologies such as adaptive geometry, artificial intelligence, energy harvesting, and bio-absorbable materials. These innovations provide a more dynamic, intelligent, and patient-centric approach to intervertebral fusion, which is not obvious from the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in the type of sensors used, the material composition of the fusion device, or the specific algorithms employed by the artificial intelligence system. Additionally, the system may be adapted for use in other orthopedic applications, such as joint replacement or bone fracture repair.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive intervertebral fusion system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic and spine markets, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient surgery centers. The system's ability to provide personalized treatment and minimize the risk of complications may lead to improved patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and increased market share for companies that adopt this technology.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/447 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/442 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4425 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4465 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4611 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/2817 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/2835 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/3083 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30266 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30387 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30397 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30405 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30411 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30433 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30471 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30482 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30484 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30507 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30517 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30522 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30523 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30528 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30555 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30556 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30558 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30579 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30593 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30601 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30607 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30828 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30841 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30843 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30904 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/443 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00011 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00017 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00023 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00179 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic medical devices, specifically intervertebral fusion implants and surgical technologies involving spinal biomechanical interventions. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, biomaterials, surgical techniques, and medical device design with advanced knowledge of spinal anatomy and fusion processes.
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic medical device designer with advanced degrees, experience in designing surgical implants, understanding of biomechanical principles, familiarity with materials science, and knowledge of emerging medical technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable technological extensions of the source patent's expandable fusion device concept. The disclosed adaptive technologies and intelligent systems are logical progressions of existing intervertebral implant design principles. The integration of sensors, AI, and customizable geometries represents incremental innovations that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner seeking to improve surgical outcomes.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,437 |
|---|---|
| Title | Expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof |
| Assignee(s) | Globus Medical, Inc. |