Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine
AssigneeVertiFlex, Inc.
InventorDaniel H. Kim
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer or member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in an expanded configuration has a size, volume and/or shape configured for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in order to distract the vertebrae relative to each other. The systems include one or more expandable members and a mechanical actuation means for expanding the expandable member or an expansion medium for injection within or for filling the interior of the expandable member via the port. The methods involve the implantation of one or more devices or expandable spacers.
Claims11
A method for stabilizing a vertebrae relative to another vertebrae, the method comprising:
- introducing an expandable interspinous device laterally of an interspinous space of the vertebrae;
- distracting the interspinous space by introducing a distracting device wherein the distracting device includes an upper and a lower portion having curved surfaces configured to seat the vertebrae;
- expanding the interspinous device;
- and
- inserting the expanded interspinous device within the interspinous space, wherein the interspinous device is configured to be retracted and/or repositioned within the interspinous space.
A method for stabilizing at least one spinal motion segment comprising a superior vertebra and an inferior vertebra, the method comprising:
- positioning an expandable member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in the unexpanded configuration has a size configured for positioning between the first and second spinous process and in the expanded configuration provides distraction of the first and second spinous processes, wherein the expandable member is mechanically actuatable from the unexpanded configuration to the expanded configuration;
- forming an opening in the spinous ligament;
- positioning the expandable member within the opening wherein the expandable member is in the unexpanded configuration;
- and
- expanding the expandable member to the expanded configuration wherein the first and second vertebrae are distracted a selected distance wherein the expandable member includes an upper curved surface configured to engage the superior vertebra and a lower curved surface configured to engage the inferior vertebra.
A method for stabilizing a vertebrae relative to another vertebrae, the method comprising:
- introducing an expandable interspinous device to an interspinous space of the vertebrae through a cannula;
- expanding the interspinous device;
- introducing a distracting device through the cannula within the interspinous space and expanding the interspinous space with the distracting device;
- and
- inserting the expanded interspinous device within the interspinous space, wherein the interspinous device is configured to be retracted and/or repositioned within the interspinous space.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.