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US 2008/0177264 A1Published application
Methods and systems for laterally stabilized constraint of spinous processes
AssigneeSimpirica Spine, Inc.
InventorsTodd Alamin, Ian Bennett, Colin Cahill, Louis Fielding
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Abstract
A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.
Claims25
A spinal implant comprising:
- a tether structure adapted to encircle at least two spinous processes, wherein at least a portion of the tether structure elastically elongates to apply tension on the spinous processes as the spine undergoes flexion;
- at least one cross-member coupled to opposed portions of the tether structure and positioned to lie between the spinous processes when the tether structure encircles said processes.
A method for restricting spinal flexion, said method comprising:
- positioning a continuous tether structure over spinous processes on a pair of adjacent vertebrae, wherein the tether elastically tensions the processes when the processes are in flexion;
- and
- mechanically coupling opposed portions of the tether structure through an interspinous ligament to inhibit circumferential displacement of the tether structure over time.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.