Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2016-2018
Title: Innovations by Ellen Ehrich Kourakos
Introduction
Ellen Ehrich Kourakos is a notable inventor based in Chicago, IL, who has made significant contributions to the field of vertebral augmentation. With a total of two patents to her name, she has developed innovative methods that enhance spinal health and patient outcomes.
Latest Patents
Kourakos's latest patents include a method for balloon-assisted augmentation and fusion of adjacent vertebral bodies. This vertebral augmentation system provides methods for augmenting and/or fusing vertebrae. In certain embodiments, a pre-curved stylet or needle with an overlying delivery tube is utilized to target a site within a bone structure. This facilitates the direction of an expandable member that creates a cavity to receive curable material, restoring bone height and reinforcing the bone structure. The expandable member, such as a balloon, can create multiple voids by displacing bone material. These voids can then be filled with curable material to augment the vertebrae and fuse adjacent vertebrae.
Career Highlights
Ellen Kourakos is currently employed at Stryker Corporation, a leading medical technology company. Her work focuses on developing advanced solutions for spinal surgery, contributing to improved surgical techniques and patient care.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Kourakos has collaborated with talented professionals, including Erin L Schaus and John A Krueger. These collaborations have fostered innovation and enhanced the development of her patented technologies.
Conclusion
Ellen Ehrich Kourakos is a pioneering inventor whose work in vertebral augmentation has the potential to transform spinal surgery. Her contributions to the field are significant, and her patents reflect her commitment to improving patient outcomes.