Methods and apparatus for joint distraction
US8986311B2 · kind B2 · utility
9Cited by
53References
32Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 14, 2012 |
| Grant date | Mar 24, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/1088
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of treating a patient's joint having opposing joint surfaces includes providing an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end and an expandable member near the distal end. The expandable member is positioned in the joint between the joint surfaces and expanded so as to separate the joint surfaces away from one another into a distracted position. The joint is manipulated while in the distracted position so that the joint is distracted and in flexion. A diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is then performed on the joint while maintaining the joint in the flexed and distracted position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.