Minimally invasive spine restoration systems, devices, methods and kits

US8496686B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Gmedelaware 2 LLC · US

Inventors

• Phillip Berg · Federal Way, US
• John Arthur Ohrt · Redmond, US
• Cin Abidin · Los Angeles, US
• Mark K. Kuiper · Seattle, US
• Michael J. Funk · North Bend, US
• Anthony Finazzo · Lake Forest Park, US
• Christopher Ralph · Woodinville, US
• Richard J. Broman · Kirkland, US
• Sean Suh · Milltown, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 7, 2007
• Grant date: Jul 30, 2013
• Expiry date: Jan 2, 2030

Classification

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

Abstract

The invention discloses methods, devices, systems and kits for repairing, replacing and/or augmenting natural facet joint surfaces and/or facet capsules. An implantable facet joint device of one embodiment comprises a cephalad facet joint element and a caudal facet joint element. The cephalad facet joint element includes a member adapted to engage a first vertebra, and an artificial cephalad bearing member. The caudal facet joint element includes a connector adapted for fixation to a second vertebra at a fixation point and an artificial caudal bearing member adapted to engage the cephalad bearing member. The artificial caudal bearing member is adapted for a location lateral to the fixation point.