Tissue distraction device
5 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An apparatus and method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting two tissue surfaces. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the two tissue surfaces to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the tissue surfaces so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.
207 Citations
121 Claims
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1-97. -97. (canceled)
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98. A method for fusing two adjacent bones or pieces of bone, the method comprising:
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removably securing a distal end of an inserter to an adjustable fusion implant;
positioning the adjustable fusion implant between two adjacent bones or pieces of bone;
sliding a member along the inserter so that the member couples with the adjustable fusion implant; and
disconnecting the inserter from the adjustable fusion implant. - View Dependent Claims (99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108)
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109. A method for fusing two vertebrae, the method comprising:
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interlocking an inserter to an adjustable fusion implant such that the inserter is temporarily fixed to the fusion implant;
positioning the adjustable fusion implant between two adjacent bones or pieces of bone;
coupling a member to the adjustable fusion implant using the inserter as a guide for the member; and
disconnecting the inserter from the adjustable fusion implant. - View Dependent Claims (110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118)
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119. A kit for fusing two adjacent bones or pieces of bone, comprising:
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an adjustable fusion implant;
an inserter removably securable to the adjustable fusion implant; and
at least one member configured for advancement along the inserter to couple to the adjustable fusion implant. - View Dependent Claims (120, 121)
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Specification