Method and apparatus for distracting a joint, including the provision and use of a novel joint-spacing balloon catheter and a novel inflatable perineal post

A method for creating space in a joint, the method comprising:

• inserting a first expandable member into the interior of the joint while the expandable member is in a contracted condition;
• expanding the first expandable member within the joint so as to create a first intrajoint space;
• inserting a second expandable member into the first intrajoint space while the second expandable member is in a contracted condition;
• and
• expanding the second expandable member within the first intrajoint space so as to create a second intrajoint space.

A joint-spacing balloon catheter comprising:

• a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end;
• an expandable member attached to the distal end of the shaft, the expandable member being capable of supporting opposing bones of a previously-distracted joint when the distraction force is reduced;
• and
• a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft.