Minimally invasive apparatus to manipulate and revitalize spinal column disc

US7909872B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Richard I. Zipnick · Park City, US
• Randall Stultz · Phoenix, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 21, 2007
• Grant date: Mar 22, 2011
• Expiry date: Feb 3, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2310/00179
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method and apparatus are provided to manipulate and revitalize a spinal column disc while minimizing or preventing the removal of material comprising the disc. The method allows a device to be inserted in the disc either through a pre-existing rupture or through an opening formed in the front, back, or sides of the disc. Increasing the space between the vertebra bounding the disc or removing disc material often is not necessary to insert the device in the disc. The device generates internal traction or other forces acting on the disc to alter the shape of the disc. The shape of the disc is altered to relieve pressure on nerves adjacent the disc. The shape of the disc is also altered to draw nuclear hernias back into the interior of the disc and to produce a disc shape that improves functioning of the disc.