Facet replacement/spacing and flexible spinal stabilization
US8672973B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 11, 2011 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2310/00131
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Spinal stabilization devices for addressing back pain originating in the facet joints and the spinous processes of the vertebrae. One embodiment of the present invention includes a substantially T-shaped facet implant for insertion between the facets of two successive vertebrae after a desired amount of the articulating surfaces have been resected. The long and flat portion of the T-shaped facet implant is inserted in between the facets and then the wings of the T-shape, also called fixation tabs, are secured to the spine to secure the facet implant into place. The T-shape implant may also be a part of a spinal stabilization system that includes a facet implant, a spinous process spacer, and a flexible connecting member securing the same.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.