Importance

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Abstract

A device and method are used in fortifying an intervertebral disc having an annulus fibrosis with an inner wall. According to the method, a hole is formed through the annulus fibrosis, and a collapsed bag is inserted into the disc through the hole. The bag is inflated, or allowed to expand within the disc space, then filling with one or more biocompatible materials. The hole in the annulus fibrosis is then closed. In one preferred embodiment, the bag includes an inflatable bladder or balloon which is filled with a gas or liquid to expand the bag. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the bag includes a self-expanding frame that assumes a collapsed state for introduction into the disc space and an expanded state once inserted through the hole in the annulus. The self-expanding frame is composed of a shape-memory material, for example. The bag preferably features a wall which is porous to allow for the diffusion of body fluids therethrough, and the bag and/or frame may be fastened to the inner wall of the annulus at one or more points. The biocompatible material may include autograft nucleus pulposis, allograft nucleus pulposis or xenograft nucleus pulposis. In the preferred embodiment, the biocompatible material includes morselized nucleus or annulus from the same disc.

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First Claim