Percutaneous spinal implants and methods
US8029567B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2006 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/0256
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatuses and methods for performing minimally-invasive medical procedures are described. In one embodiment, for example, an apparatus includes an elongate member having a proximal portion configured to move repeatedly between a first configuration and a second configuration. At least a section of the proximal portion is collapsed in the first configuration and is expanded in the second configuration. The elongate member has a distal portion configured to move repeatedly between a first configuration and a second configuration. At least a section of the proximal portion is collapsed in the first configuration and is expanded in the second configuration. A non-expanding central portion is positioned between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The non-expanding central portion is configured to engage adjacent spinous processes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.