US7156877B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Biodegradable/bioactive nucleus pulposus implant and method for treating degenerated intervertebral discs
Assignee: University of California
•
Filing: 2002-05-24
•
Granted: 2007-01-02
•
Expires: 2022-05-24
Abstract
Abstract A bioactive/biodegradable nucleus implant for repairing degenerated intervertebral discs that is inflated inside the nucleus space after the degenerated nucleus has been removed to re-pressurize the nuclear space within the intervertebral disc. The implant is inflated with a high molecular weight fluid, gel or combination of fluid and elastomer, preferably an under-hydrated HA hydrogel/growth factor mixture with or without host cells. The implant includes an internal, integral, self-sealing valve that allows one-way filling of the implant after it is placed within the disc, and is made from a material that allows fibrous in growth thereby stabilizing the implant. A variety of substances can be incorporated into the implant to promote healing, prevent infection, or arrest pain.
Inventors
- 👤 Jeffrey C. Lotz
- 👤 Olivier K. Colliou
- 👤 David S. Bradford
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-23 01:12
CPC Classifications
B; B29; B29C; B29C41/00; B29C41/02; B29C41/14; A; A61; A61F; A61F2/00; A61F2/02; A61F2/30; A61F2/44; A61F2/441; A61F2/46; A61F2/4603; A61F2/4611; A61L; A61L27/00; A61L27/14; A61L27/18; A61L27/50; A61L27/58; A61F2/3094; A61F2/30965; A61F2/442; A61F2002/30001; A61F2002/30003; A61F2002/3006; A61F2002/30062; A61F2002/30069; A61F2002/30108; A61F2002/3011; A61F2002/30112; A61F2002/30133; A61F2/30942; A61F2002/30957; A61F2002/444; A61F2002/4625; A61F2002/4627; A61F2002/4629; A61F2002/4635; A61F2210/00; A61F2210/0004; A61F2230/00; A61F2230/0002; A61F2230/0004; A61F2230/0015; A61F2310/00; A61F2310/00005; A61F2310/00365; A61F2310/00389; A61F2310/0097; A61L2430/00; A61L2430/38; B29C41/34; B29C41/42
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 100
Claim 1
Independent Claim
209 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, which disc comprises an annulus that substantially surrounds a nuclear space and is located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, said implant comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane being insertable in a collapsed configuration through a passageway formed across the annulus wall and into the nuclear space; said membrane being adjustable within the nuclear space from the collapsed configuration to an inflated configuration with a geometry configured to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are configured relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber; and wherein said membrane in the inflated configuration within the nuclear space is configured to contribute substantial support to the disc under the compressive load between the adjacent vertebrae.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
209 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, which disc comprises an annulus that substantially surrounds a nuclear space and is located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, said implant comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane being insertable in a collapsed configuration through a passageway formed across the annulus wall and into the nuclear space; said membrane being adjustable within the nuclear space from the collapsed configuration to an inflated configuration with a geometry configured to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are configured relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber; and wherein said membrane in the inflated configuration within the nuclear space is configured to contribute substantial support to the disc under the compressive load between the adjacent vertebrae.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant as recited in claim 1 , wherein said membrane comprises an elastomer.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 2 , wherein said elastomer is biodegradable.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 2 , wherein said elastomer comprises polyurethane.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 4 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant as recited in claim 1 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 6 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 6 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 6 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 9 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
152 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, said disc having a nuclear space located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane configured to be inserted in a nuclear space between the first and second adjacent vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane being adjustable within the nuclear space from the collapsed configuration to an inflated configuration with a geometry configured to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and means for sealing a fill material within said chamber; wherein said means for sealing a fill material is coupled to the internal chamber such that a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, seals said internal chamber.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
152 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, said disc having a nuclear space located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane configured to be inserted in a nuclear space between the first and second adjacent vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane being adjustable within the nuclear space from the collapsed configuration to an inflated configuration with a geometry configured to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and means for sealing a fill material within said chamber; wherein said means for sealing a fill material is coupled to the internal chamber such that a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, seals said internal chamber.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
20 words
An implant as recited in claim 11 , wherein said means comprises an internal, self-sealing, fill-valve integral to said membrane.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant as recited in claim 11 , wherein said membrane comprises an elastomer.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 13 , wherein said elastomer is biodegradable.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 13 , wherein said elastomer comprises polyurethane.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 15 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant as recited in claim 11 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 17 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 17 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 17 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 20 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
197 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, elastic membrane; said membrane being insertable into said disc in a collapsed configuration through a passageway formed in the disc and into a nuclear space between the first and second adjacent vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; and said membrane having an internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber; and wherein said membrane in the inflated configuration within the nuclear space is configured to contribute substantial support to the disc under the compressive load between the adjacent vertebrae.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
197 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, elastic membrane; said membrane being insertable into said disc in a collapsed configuration through a passageway formed in the disc and into a nuclear space between the first and second adjacent vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; and said membrane having an internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space to substantially fill the nuclear space such that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber; and wherein said membrane in the inflated configuration within the nuclear space is configured to contribute substantial support to the disc under the compressive load between the adjacent vertebrae.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 22 , wherein said membrane is biodegradable.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
13 words
An implant as recited in claim 22 , wherein said membrane comprises polyurethane.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 24 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant as recited in claim 22 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 26 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 26 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 26 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 29 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
128 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane configured to be installed between the adjacent vertebrae and inflated such that a first portion of the membrane contacts the first vertebrae, and a second portion of the membrane contacts a second vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; and said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls in communication with said membrane such that the internal walls collapse as a result of a compressive load disposed on said internal chamber through the first and second adjacent vertebrae and resulting contact with said first and second membrane portions.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
128 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane configured to be installed between the adjacent vertebrae and inflated such that a first portion of the membrane contacts the first vertebrae, and a second portion of the membrane contacts a second vertebrae; said membrane having an internal chamber; and said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls in communication with said membrane such that the internal walls collapse as a result of a compressive load disposed on said internal chamber through the first and second adjacent vertebrae and resulting contact with said first and second membrane portions.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant as recited in claim 31 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant as recited in claim 32 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 32 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 32 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 35 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
132 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a hydrogel; said membrane configured to be installed between the adjacent vertebrae and inflated so that a first portion of the membrane contacts the first vertebrae, and a second portion of the membrane contacts a second vertebrae; and said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls in communication with said membrane such that the internal walls collapse as a result of a compressive load disposed on said internal chamber through the first and second adjacent vertebrae and resulting contact with said first and second membrane portions.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
132 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a hydrogel; said membrane configured to be installed between the adjacent vertebrae and inflated so that a first portion of the membrane contacts the first vertebrae, and a second portion of the membrane contacts a second vertebrae; and said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls in communication with said membrane such that the internal walls collapse as a result of a compressive load disposed on said internal chamber through the first and second adjacent vertebrae and resulting contact with said first and second membrane portions.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 37 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
28 words
An implant as recited in claim 38 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
48 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa) and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
48 words
An implant for repairing an intervertebral disc, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa) and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
31 words
An implant as recited in claim 40 , wherein said material in said chamber is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
191 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
191 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 42 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant system as recited in claim 42 , wherein said membrane comprises an elastomer.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 44 , wherein said elastomer is biodegradable.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 44 , wherein said elastomer comprises polyurethane.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 46 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
17 words
An implant system as recited in claim 42 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 48 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 48 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 48 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 51 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
180 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane configured to cooperate with a means for sealing a fill material within said chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded by adjacent vertebral endplates located on opposing ends of the intervertebral disc; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space wherein said membrane and said means for sealing a fill material seal the internal chamber in response to a compressive load the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
180 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane configured to cooperate with a means for sealing a fill material within said chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded by adjacent vertebral endplates located on opposing ends of the intervertebral disc; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space wherein said membrane and said means for sealing a fill material seal the internal chamber in response to a compressive load the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 53 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
21 words
An implant system as recited in claim 53 , wherein said means comprises an internal, self-sealing, fill-valve integral to said membrane.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
15 words
An implant system as recited in claim 53 , wherein said membrane comprises an elastomer.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 56 , wherein said elastomer is biodegradable.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 56 , wherein said elastomer comprises polyurethane.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 58 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
17 words
An implant system as recited in claim 53 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 60 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 60 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 60 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 63 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
192 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, elastic membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
192 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, elastic membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 65 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 65 , wherein said membrane is biodegradable.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
14 words
An implant system as recited in claim 65 , wherein said membrane comprises polyurethane.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 68 , wherein said polyurethane comprises aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
17 words
An implant system as recited in claim 65 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 70 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 70 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 70 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 73 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
210 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane and said internal self-sealing fill valve are a unitary piece of material; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
210 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane and said internal self-sealing fill valve are a unitary piece of material; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 75 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
17 words
An implant system as recited in claim 75 , wherein said chamber is filled with a hydrogel.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
16 words
An implant system as recited in claim 77 , wherein said hydrogel comprises cross-linkable polyethylene glycol.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 77 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 77 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 80 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
199 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a hydrogel; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
199 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a hydrogel; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 82 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 82 , wherein said hydrogel comprises: a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa); and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
29 words
An implant system as recited in claim 84 , wherein said hydrogel is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
228 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa) and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane and said internal self-sealing fill valve are a unitary piece of material; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
228 words
An implant system for repairing an intervertebral disc located between first and second adjacent vertebrae, comprising: an inflatable, biodegradable, aliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane membrane; said membrane having an internal chamber filled with a nucleophilic “8-arm” octomer (PEG-NH 2 , MW 20 kDa) and a “2-arm” amine-specific electrophilic dimer; said membrane having an integral, internal self-sealing fill valve located within the internal chamber; wherein said membrane and said internal self-sealing fill valve are a unitary piece of material; said membrane configured for insertion into a nuclear space created by removing nucleus pulposus tissue in an intervertebral disc; said nuclear space being bounded at least partially by said first and second adjacent vertebrae; wherein said membrane is configured to be inflated within the nuclear space so that a first portion of the membrane is located adjacent the first vertebra, and a second portion of the membrane located opposite the first portion is positioned adjacent the second vertebra; and an annular buttress configured for placement in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc and retention of said membrane in said nuclear space; wherein said internal self-sealing fill valve comprises internal opposing walls that are disposed relative to the membrane so as to collapse as a result of a compressive load between the first and second vertebrae, and thus between the first and second membrane portions, and thereby disposed on said internal chamber.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
23 words
An implant system as recited in claim 86 , wherein said buttress includes a plurality of pins configured for engaging said annulus fibrosus.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
32 words
An implant system as recited in claim 86 , wherein said material in said chamber is mixed with an additive selected from the group consisting essentially of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2010-01-01 | 2010-07-03 | 2011-01-02 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2014-01-01 | 2014-07-03 | 2015-01-02 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2018-01-01 | 2018-07-03 | 2019-01-02 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |