Enhanced Expandable Fusion Devices for Improved Spinal Fusion Outcomes
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to improved expandable fusion devices and methods for promoting intervertebral fusion, addressing limitations of existing devices by introducing enhanced stability, bone growth inducing materials, minimally invasive implantation, dynamic width adjustment, and real-time fusion monitoring.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof,' provided an innovative solution for promoting intervertebral fusion. However, the existing design had limitations, including the potential for instability, limited bone growth promotion, and invasive implantation procedures. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel features and improvements to the original design.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced expandable fusion devices comprise an expandable fusion cage with a reinforced central ramp to increase stability and facilitate intervertebral fusion. Additionally, the devices may include enhanced bone growth inducing materials, which are introduced around and within the fusion device to further promote fusion. A detachable endoscopic tube enables minimally invasive implantation, reducing recovery time and improving patient outcomes. The devices may also feature a dynamic width adjustment mechanism, allowing for real-time adjustment during implantation to ensure optimal fit and stability. Furthermore, integrated sensors enable real-time monitoring and adjustment of the fusion process, improving fusion rates and reducing complications.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features, including the reinforced central ramp, enhanced bone growth inducing materials, detachable endoscopic tube, dynamic width adjustment mechanism, and integrated sensors. These features provide a non-obvious improvement over the original patent, offering enhanced stability, improved bone growth promotion, and more efficient implantation procedures.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in the design of the reinforced central ramp, the type and composition of the enhanced bone growth inducing materials, or the configuration of the detachable endoscopic tube. Additionally, the dynamic width adjustment mechanism and integrated sensors may be implemented in different ways to achieve the same objectives.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced expandable fusion devices have significant commercial potential in the spinal fusion market, offering improved patient outcomes, reduced recovery time, and increased efficiency for surgeons. The target industries include orthopedic and spine surgery, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers.
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 surgical devices, specifically spinal fusion implants and minimally invasive surgical technologies involving intervertebral implant systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with advanced degree, expertise in medical device design, biomechanical engineering, and knowledge of spinal fusion techniques, familiar with expandable implant mechanisms and surgical intervention strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent incremental improvements to the source patent's expandable fusion device, utilizing known techniques in medical device design to enhance functionality, stability, and surgical outcomes through predictable combinations of existing technological approaches.
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. |