US 2006/0189984 A1 · Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization

Abstract

A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension.

Claims30

Dependent claims

A stabilization system for controlling relative motion between a first vertebra and a second vertebra, the stabilization system comprising:

a first stabilizer comprising:
a first end attachable to the first vertebra;
a second end attachable to the second vertebra, wherein the second end is coupled to the first end such that the second end is translatable toward and away from the first end to permit stabilized motion of the second vertebra with respect to the first vertebra;
and
a locking component positionable to lock the first stabilizer to substantially prevent translation of the second end toward and away from the first end.

2 more elements

A method for restricting axial rotation of a first vertebra with respect to a second vertebra, the method comprising:

attaching a first end of a first stabilizer to the first vertebra;
attaching a second end of the first stabilizer to the second vertebra;
coupling a first end of a crosslink to the first stabilizer;
and
substantially securing a second end of the crosslink with respect to one of the first and second vertebrae such that the second end extends from the stabilizer to restrict axial rotation of the first vertebra with respect to the second vertebra.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization

Life of this patent

Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims30