Methods of repairing herniated segments in the disc
AssigneeIntrinsic Therapeutics, Inc.
InventorGregory H. Lambrecht
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Systems for minimally invasive disc augmentation include an anulus augmentation component and a nucleus augmentation component. Both are suited for minimally invasive deployment. The nucleus augmentation component restores disc height and/or replaces missing nucleus pulposus. The anulus augmentation component shields weakened regions of the anulus fibrosis and/or resists escape of natural nucleus pulposus and/or the augmentation component. Methods and deployment devices are also disclosed. Method of supporting and augmenting a nucleus pulposus by inserting a flexible biocompatible material into the disc space using an anchoring means are also provided.
Claims20
A method of treating an intervertebral disc comprising:
- identifying a herniated anulus segment protruding outward from a natural border of an intervertebral disc,
- wherein the herniated anulus segment comprises a defect;
- implanting a first anchor and a biocompatible support member in the intervertebral disc;
- positioning said first anchor such that at least a portion of said first anchor is in contact with an innermost surface of the anulus at a first location adjacent the defect in said anulus;
- positioning said biocompatible support member such that at least a portion of said biocompatible support member is in contact with the innermost surface of the anulus at a second location adjacent the defect in said anulus;
- connecting said first anchor and said biocompatible support member with a suture;
- and
- applying tension and tightening said suture, thereby substantially closing said defect and maintaining the natural border of the intervertebral disc.
A method of treating an intervertebral disc comprising:
- identifying a herniated anulus segment protruding outward from a natural border of an intervertebral disc,
- wherein the herniated anulus segment comprises a defect;
- providing a support member;
- providing a fixation device;
- positioning the support member such that at least a portion of said support member is in contact with an inner surface of an anulus lamella at a first location adjacent the defect in said anulus;
- positioning the fixation device in anulus tissue at a second location adjacent the defect;
- connecting the fixation device to the support member with a connection member;
- and
- applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby substantially closing said defect and constraining the herniated segment to the natural border of the intervertebral disc.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.