Intervertebral implant with joint elements carried by universal joint

Abstract

An intervertebral implant, specifically an artificial intervertebral disk, with a central axis, an upper section, suitable for laying onto the base plate of a vertebral body lying on top and lower section, suitable for laying onto the cover plate of a vertebral body lying below, wherein(A) the upper section is provided with a ventral side area, a dorsal side area, two lateral side areas, a top apposition surface and a bottom surface;(B) the lower section is provided with a ventral side area, a dorsal side area, two lateral side areas, a bottom apposition surface and a top surface;(C) the two sections are moveable in relation to each other by means of one joint arranged between the two sections, wherein(D) the joint is a universal joint with two swivel axles standing perpendicular to each other.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 538,542, filed Jun. 8, 2007, entitled “INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH JOINT ELEMENTS CARRIED BY UNIVERSAL JOINT” which claims the benefit of International Application No. PCT / CH2002 / 000706, filed Dec. 17, 2002, the entire contents of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The invention relates to an intervertebral implant and to a process for the replacement of a defect, natural intervertebral disk by an intervertebral implant.[0003]After removal of a damaged, natural intervertebral disk or a damaged nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disk, implants or prostheses are inserted into the intervertebral space of two neighbouring vertebral bodies. This suggests the idea of restoring the situation as much as possible to a natural state, Le. specifically to restore the original height of the intervertebral disk and thus the o...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The intervertebral implant maintains natural spinal movement patterns, reduces joint strain and friction, and allows for minimal invasive post-operative stiffening, thereby alleviating pain and preventing further spinal degeneration.

Problems solved by technology

The disadvantages of this known intervertebral disk endoprosthesis is that

c) disadvantageous friction forces are generated by two articulating surfaces sliding on each other.

This also leads to wear on the surfaces, including also abrasion and resistance in movement of the joint elements.

There is also the risk of the “stick slip” effect;

d) a mechanical intervertebral disk prosthesis can scarcely prevent the further degeneration of the affected movement segments.

This operation represents extreme discomfort and strain on the patient; and

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