Sep 16 2010
Amedica Corporation, a spinal and orthopaedic implant and instrument company focused on unique silicon nitride (SiN) ceramic technologies, announced today that it has been granted two United States patents for its total disc replacement (TDR) technology that features the use of silicon nitride in the construction of the complete implant. U.S. Patent No. 7,758,646 B2 and U.S. Patent No. 7,771,481 B2 cover the disc's design and the use of the silicon nitride ceramic materials in its construction. This is yet another important addition to Amedica's growing patent portfolio for spinal implant applications.
The TDR is created exclusively from silicon nitride, with no other materials – such as plastic or metal – used in the design. An innovative motion-preserving total disc replacement implant, the TDR is designed to maintain a substantially full range of natural motion following implantation while providing resistance to extreme rotation of the spine. Its unique construction features a polished bearing surface on one side and a porous bio-in-growth surface on the reverse side for solid endplate attachment.
Designed to be implanted into the inter-vertebral space between adjacent spinal discs or vertebrae, the TDR is used as a prosthetic replacement for one or more surgically removed discs and maintains intervertebral anatomy.
According to Ben Shappley, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director of Amedica, the exclusive use of silicon nitride technology in the development of the TDR furthers the benefits of silicon nitride to both surgeons and patients and reinforces the increasing importance of the technology in the growing spine and reconstructive implant orthopaedics market.
"Using silicon nitride technology in the construction of the entire implant is a major breakthrough for spinal devices," said Shappley. "With the use of silicon nitride and its remarkable strength and wear characteristics, surgeons are able to avoid the problems and degenerative conditions associated with implant devices using older technologies. This allows surgeons to achieve more successful outcomes in restoring patient function and provides patients with lifetime relief that returns them to an active lifestyle."
Amedica, a full-line manufacturer and supplier of silicon nitride technologies that are used in orthopaedic applications, has developed unique SiN materials having disruptive characteristics for spinal, hip and knee implant devices. The material is remarkably fracture resistant, and its articulating surfaces do not produce the wear debris that is linked to osteolysis-related re-operations. Additionally, the Bioactive implants provide a hydrophilic surface and a conductive cancellous structure that enhances bone ingrowth and attachment.
The company recently entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with Orthopaedic Synergies Inc., an established global reconstructive hip and knee concern known for its innovative and new implant technologies, expanding its reach into a more widespread orthopaedic marketplace.
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