Expandable Vertebral Body Implants Including Shape-Memory Materials and Methods of Use

摘要

A vertebral implant for insertion into a patient includes a tubular member extending along a longitudinal axis and includes a first region comprised of a shape-memory material. The first region includes a first longitudinal height when the implant is maintained at a temperature below a threshold temperature. The first region includes a second longitudinal height when the implant is maintained at a temperature at or above the threshold temperature. The tubular member further includes a second region with a third longitudinal height regardless of whether the implant is maintained above or below the threshold temperature. The second region may be constructed of the same shape-memory material. The second region may be disposed at an end of the tubular member. Bone-growth materials may be packed into the ends of the tubular member. End pieces may be coupled to the ends of the tubular member.