System and method for facet joint replacement with detachable coupler
US8206418B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jun 26, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 15, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2310/00796
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, and a superior implant with a superior articular surface. The implants may be coupled together by a detachable coupler which can align and rigidly hold the inferior and superior articular surfaces in a preferred alignment relative to one another. A portion of the coupler may be deformable to allow detachment of the coupler from at least one of the implants. In one method of implantation, the superior and inferior implants may be aligned and coupled together with the coupler, and then secured to fixation members anchored in adjacent vertebrae. Alternatively, a first implant may be secured to a fixation member anchored in a first vertebra, and a second implant coupled to the coupler, aligned with the first implant and then secured to a fixation member anchored in a second vertebra. A tool may grip, position and/or deliver the coupler and the implants.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.