Methods and apparatus for joint distraction
US9033992B2 · kind B2 · utility
2Cited by
53References
21Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 12, 2009 |
| Grant date | May 19, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 31, 2031 |
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.