Adaptable Intervertebral Disc Prosthesis Insertion Systems for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept discloses adaptable intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion systems designed for specific, niche environments, including high-security operating rooms, disaster relief settings, extreme weather conditions, remote or underserved areas, and high-altitude environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a system for inserting an intervertebral prosthesis into a space between two adjacent vertebrae. However, this system lacked adaptability for specialized environments, limiting its applicability in various scenarios. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by providing adaptable systems that cater to specific environmental demands.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises systems for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis into a space between two adjacent vertebrae, adapted for high-security operating rooms, disaster relief settings, extreme weather conditions, remote or underserved areas, and high-altitude environments. Each system includes an intervertebral disc prosthesis having two endplates movable with respect to one another, with a width in a lateral direction that is less than or equal to the width of the space between the two adjacent vertebrae. The systems further comprise specialized modules, such as sterilization modules, portable power sources, weather-resistant enclosures, satellite-based communication systems, and pressure-compensating mechanisms, designed to address the unique challenges of each environment.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features that adapt the original system for specific environments, providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent. The inventive step lies in the integration of specialized modules that enable the system to operate effectively in diverse environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include systems adapted for other specialized environments, such as search and rescue operations, space exploration, or military operations. Variations could also include different types of intervertebral disc prostheses or insertion devices tailored to specific environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptable intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion systems have significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, and aerospace. The market for these systems is expected to grow as the demand for specialized medical solutions increases.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/4611 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/442 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4425 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4455 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4465 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/025 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0256 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4603 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30518 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30649 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/443 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4615 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4622 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4627 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4628 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion systems, involving biomechanical design, surgical instrumentation, and adaptive medical technologies across multiple clinical environments
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with advanced degree, expertise in medical device design, understanding of surgical constraints, familiarity with modular medical system design, and knowledge of environmental adaptation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion mechanism remains fundamentally unchanged, with the PTD merely adding environment-specific protective and operational modules that represent predictable engineering adaptations to extend the original device's utility across different clinical settings. The variations represent standard design modifications that a skilled practitioner would naturally consider when translating a medical device into diverse operational contexts. The technical solutions proposed are straightforward extensions of existing medical device design principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,438 |
|---|---|
| Title | Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion |
| Assignee(s) | Simplify Medical Pty Ltd. |