Devices and methods for annular repair of intervertebral discs
First Claim
1. A method for treating an annulus of an intervertebral disc in a patient'"'"'s spine, comprising:
- providing an implant;
anchoring the implant to the annulus with an anchor, wherein the anchor extends around annular tissue.
3 Assignments
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Accused Products
Abstract
Devices and methods for treating a damaged intervertebral disc to reduce or eliminate associated back pain. The present invention provides disc reinforcement therapy (DRT) which involves implanting one or more reinforcement members in and preferably around the annulus of the disc. The reinforcement members may be used to stabilize the annulus and/or compresses a portion of the annulus so as to reduce a bulge and/or close a fissure. The implantable devices and associated delivery tools may incorporate heating capabilities to thermally treat the annular tissue. Alternatively or in combination, other devices may be specifically employed for such thermal treatment.
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Citations
13 Claims
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1. A method for treating an annulus of an intervertebral disc in a patient'"'"'s spine, comprising:
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providing an implant;
anchoring the implant to the annulus with an anchor, wherein the anchor extends around annular tissue. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A method for treating an annulus of an intervertebral disc in a patient'"'"'s spine, comprising:
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providing a device having a heating element configured to be inserted into the annulus;
positioning the heating element in the annulus;
heating the annulus with the heating element while the heating element is positioned in the annulus; and
removing the device from the annulus. - View Dependent Claims (9)
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10. A method for treating an intervertebral disc in a patient'"'"'s spine, comprising:
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providing an elongate member having two ends;
circumscribing the disc with said elongate member; and
securing said ends together. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13)
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Specification