Intervertebral fusion device and method of use

摘要

Some embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus that (1) delivers a fusion member between two vertebral bodies after at least a portion of the fibrocartilaginous disc between the vertebral bodies has been removed, and (2) affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes (1) a fusion member that is delivered and positioned between the vertebral bodies, (2) a delivery mechanism that delivers and positions the fusion member between the vertebral bodies, and (3) an anchoring member that affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies.

主权项

1. A method for attaching a fusion device, the method comprising:
positioning a fusion member between two vertebral bodies, the fusion member having at least one channel; affixing the fusion member to one of the vertebral bodies using a needle, the needle comprising (i) an embedding member having a first mating member and (ii) a retractable member having a second mating member, the affixing comprising:
coupling the embedding member with the retractable member in order to form a unified needle by rotating, in a first direction, the retractable member with respect to the embedding member such that the first and second mating members interlock together;applying force on the retractable member in order to push the embedding member through the channel of the fusion member into the vertebral body; andanchoring the embedding member within the vertebral body and to the fusion member; decoupling the retractable member from the embedding member by rotating the retractable member in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction; and retracting the retractable member.