Specialized Expandable Fusion Devices for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept adapts expandable fusion devices for specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments, addressing high-altitude, compromised immune systems, disaster relief, high-security, and spinal deformity scenarios.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for an expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof has limitations in addressing specialized needs. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by providing tailored solutions for high-altitude environments, patients with compromised immune systems, disaster relief scenarios, high-security environments, and patients with spinal deformities.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises four specialized variations of the expandable fusion device: (1) a high-altitude version designed to withstand extreme pressure and temperature fluctuations, (2) a compromised immune system version featuring a specialized bone graft material that minimizes the risk of infection, (3) a disaster relief version with a sterilization module for rapid cleaning and reuse, (4) a high-security version with a secure locking mechanism and easily replaceable central core, and (5) a spinal deformity version customizable to unique spinal geometries with real-time monitoring. These variations leverage the original patent's expandable fusion device technology while incorporating unique features and materials to address specific niche needs.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious adaptations of the original expandable fusion device, providing innovative solutions for high-altitude, compromised immune systems, disaster relief, high-security, and spinal deformity scenarios. These adaptations involve the integration of specialized materials, designs, and features that address specific challenges and limitations in these niche environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations of the expandable fusion device for other specialized markets or operational environments, such as extreme weather conditions, remote or resource-constrained areas, or unique patient populations. These variations could involve modifications to the device's materials, geometry, or functionality to address specific challenges and needs.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of spinal fusion, orthopedics, and neurosurgery. The target markets include hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions serving patients with specialized needs, as well as government agencies and non-profit organizations involved in disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.
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 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,437 |
|---|---|
| Title | Expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof |
| Assignee(s) | Globus Medical, Inc. |