Method of replacing nucleus pulposus and repairing the intervertebral disk
OwnerPeter A. Guagliano, Anthony C. Rossinventors
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Abstract
A process for repairing the annulus fibrosus, and replacing the nucleus pulposus. Removal of the nucleus pulposus and only as much of the annulus fibrosus and intervertebral disk as necessary is performed. The tissue so removed is replaced by a material which is resilient, but non-dispersing upon setting. After application of the material, and after the material is set, the resiliency of the material permits motion of the vertebrae and performs the cushioning and joint functions of the intervertebral disk. The material is physiologically acceptable to the human body.
Claims18
A process of replacing nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disk, comprising the steps of:
- a. identifying a location of a prolapse in an annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disk;
- b. removal of nucleus pulposus contained in said annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disk;
- c. injection of a resilient material comprising a geometric isomer of natural rubber which will not disperse upon setting, so as to cause said resilient material to occupy a space formerly occupied by said nucleus pulposus.
A process of replacing nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disk, comprising the steps of:
- a. identifying a location of a prolapse in an annulus fibrosis of an interverbral disk;
- b. heating a resilient material;
- c. pressurizing the heated resilient material and injecting the resilient material into the intervertebral disk, such that the injected heated material will set and occupy a space formerly occupied by said nucleus pulposus.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.