US 10016284

Here's a concise summary of US Patent 10016284:

Title: Zero-profile expandable intervertebral spacer devices for distraction and spinal fusion and a universal tool for their placement and expansion

Assignee: Moskowitz Family LLC (Current Assignee), Moskowitz Family LLC (Original Assignee)

Inventors: Ahmnon D. Moskowitz, Mosheh T. Moskowitz, Pablo A. Valdivia Y. Alvarado, Eric Sugalski, Nathan C. Moskowitz

Filing Date: November 21, 2017

Issue Date: July 10, 2018

Abstract: A unique, universal Zero-Profile Expandable Intervertebral Spacer (ZP-EIS) device is provided for fusion and distraction throughout the entire spine. This device can be inserted via anterior, anterolateral, lateral, far lateral, or posterior surgical approaches, depending on surgical need and preference. Multiple ZP-EIS embodiments are presented, each with unique mechanisms of calibrated expansion. Two embodiments incorporate bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screws, while five other embodiments do not. A tool for implantation into the intervertebral device and calibrated device expansion is also disclosed.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1: This claim describes an expandable intervertebral fusion device designed to be inserted into a disc space between vertebral bodies. The device includes a top housing and a bottom housing that are coupled to allow relative vertical movement. A rotation screw is connected to both housings. When the screw is turned, it causes the top and bottom housings to move apart, expanding the device vertically. The device also features a rostral-directed screw passing through the top housing into the upper vertebral body, and a caudally-directed screw passing through the bottom housing into the lower vertebral body. These screws are oriented in opposing, bi-directional fashion. Additionally, the device has bone cavities that can be filled with bone fusion material and indentations on its sides for engagement with a surgical tool.

• Independent Claim 17: This claim describes a surgical tool intended for use with an expandable intervertebral fusion device, such as the one described in Claim 1. The tool comprises a handle, a gripper with prongs that cooperate with the handle, and a screw guide held by the prongs. The screw guide is designed to control the direction of self-drilling screws. The tool also includes an Allen key, which is used to expand the expandable intervertebral devices.

Uncertainty Regarding CAFC 2026 Dockets:
While the patent information indicates that there is ongoing litigation related to this patent family, including a PTAB case IPR2026-00216 filed and US cases in Delaware and Minnesota District Courts, no specific dockets or outcomes for US patent 10016284 in the CAFC during 2026 were found in the provided search results. The search results show general CAFC activity and updates for 2026, but do not directly link any of these to patent US10016284.