Method of insertion of an expandable intervertebral implant using a tool
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Accused Products
Abstract
An artificial functional spinal unit including an expandable intervertebral implant that can be inserted via a posterior surgical approach and used with one or more facet replacement devices to provide an anatomically correct range of motion is described. Lordotic and non-lordotic expandable, articulating implants and cages are described, along with embodiments of facet replacement devices and instruments for insertion. Methods of insertion are also described.
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Citations
187 Claims
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1-157. -157. (canceled)
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158. A method of inserting an intervertebral implant between vertebrae in a human spine, comprising:
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creating an opening through an annulus between the vertebrae;
inserting the intervertebral implant through the opening;
positioning the intervertebral implant between the vertebrae;
advancing a tool through an opening in the intervertebral implant to engage an insert in the intervertebral implant, wherein engaging the insert comprises elevating the insert, thereby increasing a height of the intervertebral implant; and
maintaining at least a portion of the increased height of the intervertebral implant. - View Dependent Claims (159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167)
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168. A method of inserting an intervertebral implant between vertebrae in a human spine, comprising:
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creating an opening through an annulus between the vertebrae;
inserting the intervertebral implant through the opening;
positioning the intervertebral implant between the vertebrae;
advancing a tool through an opening in the intervertebral implant to at least partially rotate an insert in the intervertebral implant, thereby increasing a height of the intervertebral implant; and
maintaining at least a portion of the increased height of the intervertebral implant. - View Dependent Claims (169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178)
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179. A method of inserting an intervertebral implant between vertebrae in a human spine, comprising:
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creating an opening through an annulus between the vertebrae;
inserting the intervertebral implant through the opening;
positioning the intervertebral implant between the vertebrae;
advancing a tool through an opening in the intervertebral implant to engage a member of the intervertebral implant, wherein engaging the member comprises engaging an angled portion of the tool with an angled portion of the member to increase a height of the intervertebral implant; and
maintaining at least a portion of the increased height of the intervertebral implant. - View Dependent Claims (180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187)
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Specification