Anterior cervical plating system and method

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a system for anterior fixation of the spine that utilizes an elongated fixation plate. The plating system stabilizes the spine and promotes fusion and incorporation of a graft or implant in a portion of the spinal column. In one aspect of the invention, the fixation plate has a first end with a pair of holes. Bone screws extend through the holes to rigidly secure the plate to a first vertebra. The second end of the plate is provided with a pair of slots through which bone screws extend for engagement with a second vertebra. The screws extending through the slots are translatable in the slot to maintain compression of the spinal column portion. The plating system includes a retainer assembly that prevents screw back out. Methods and instruments relating to the plating system are also described.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 134,463, filed Apr. 30, 2002, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09 / 417,402, filed Oct. 13, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,786, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of instrumentation and systems for the spine, and more particularly to instrumentation and systems for use in treatment of various pathologies of the cervical spine. [0003] As with any bony structure, the spine is subject to various pathologies that compromise its load bearing and support capabilities. Such pathologies of the spine include, for example, degenerative diseases, the effects of tumors and, of course, fractures and dislocations attributable to physical trauma. Spinal surgeons have addressed these problems using a wide variety of instrumentation in a broad range o...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a system for anterior fixation of the spine using an elongated fixation plate with bone engaging fasteners that promote fusion and incorporation of a graft or implant into the spinal column portion. The plate has a central axis and is designed to be secured to a first vertebra and a second vertebra. The system allows for pre-load and continuous loading of the graft or implant, promoting bone growth and fusion. The plate has a first end with a pair of holes and a second end with a pair of slots, through which the bone engaging fasteners extend to secure the plate to the vertebrae. The system also includes a retainer assembly for the plate. The technical effects of the invention include improved spinal column stability, reduced stress-shielding, and promotion of bone growth and fusion.

Problems solved by technology

As with any bony structure, the spine is subject to various pathologies that compromise its load bearing and support capabilities.

This is particularly important in such procedures that relate to the cervical spine because the complications can be very devastating, such as injury to the brain stem, spinal cord, or vertebral arteries.

Images