
US Patent Application No: 2004/0172,132
Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000
Apparatus and methods for treating spinal discs
Stats
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Sep 2, 2004
Publication date -
Feb 5, 2004
filing date -
10/773,581
serial no -
ABAN
status
Importance
Abstract
A band of biocompatible and/or bioabsorbable material is provided including threads on one or both of its ends. An area adjacent a spinal disc is accessed, and the band of material is wrapped around the disc to stabilize the disc and/or to facilitate healing. An elongate member is inserted around a posterior region of the disc, e.g., through tubular guide members. An end of the band is connected to a distal end of the elongate member, and the elongate member is pulled back around the disc to direct the band around the disc. The band is secured around the disc overlapping vertebrae adjacent the disc. Optionally, a relative location of the vertebrae is adjusted relative to the disc before wrapping the band around the disc, for example, using a fork member or traction. Energy may also be applied to the disc to enhance healing.
First Claim
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