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Abstract

A bio-compatible covering such as a mesh is used in spinal applications, such as during spinal surgery, to cover, shroud and/or encapsulate at least a portion of one or more vertebrae and/or inter-vertebral devices. The bio-compatible covering preferably, but not necessarily, is formed of PEEK (polyetheretherketone). A delivery instrument for the present PEEK mesh is also provided that places the PEEK mesh onto spinal surfaces (e.g. vertebra and implants) and then applies fasteners to the PEEK mesh and the spinal surfaces for holding the PEEK mesh to the spinal surfaces. The PEEK mesh delivery instrument is preferably, but not necessarily, a minimally invasive delivery instrument (e.g. laproscopic device). The delivery instrument provides a method of simultaneous installation and anchoring of the PEEK mesh. The mesh may be used to emulate (replace) and/or supplement spinal ligaments particularly after spinal surgery such as spinal implant surgery. The mesh may be used in this manner with respect to and/or for the anterior longitudinal ligament and the posterior longitudinal ligament (i.e. artificial ligament). The mesh may also be used as artificial annulus fibrosus material in order to supplement a patient's natural annuls fibrosus. Alternatively or additionally, the mesh may be used to repair or mend a patient's annulus fibrosus.

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First Claim