Inter-cervical facet implant and method
First Claim
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1. A tool for sizing a cervical facet joint in order to select a cervical facet joint implant for implanting in the cervical facet joint, said tool comprising:
- a handle;
an interfacet sizer, the interfacet sizer having a rounded distal end and a proximal end and connected with the handle at the proximal end; and
a stop at the proximal end of the interfacet sizer, the stop adapted to prevent over-insertion of the interfacet sizer during sizing.
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Abstract
Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. The implant can be inserted laterally or posteriorly.
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Citations
12 Claims
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1. A tool for sizing a cervical facet joint in order to select a cervical facet joint implant for implanting in the cervical facet joint, said tool comprising:
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a handle;
an interfacet sizer, the interfacet sizer having a rounded distal end and a proximal end and connected with the handle at the proximal end; and
a stop at the proximal end of the interfacet sizer, the stop adapted to prevent over-insertion of the interfacet sizer during sizing. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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9. A tool for sizing a cervical facet joint in order to select a cervical facet joint implant for implanting in the cervical facet joint, said tool comprising:
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a handle;
an interfacet sizer, the interfacet sizer having a rounded, tapered distal end to facilitate insertion of the interfacet sizer into the cervical facet joint, and a proximal end connected with the handle; and
a stop placed at the proximal end of the interfacet sizer, the stop adapted to prevent over-insertion of the tool during sizing, wherein the interfacet sizer is shaped like an artificial facet joint.
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10. A method of sizing a cervical facet joint with a sizing tool to select a cervical facet joint implant to implant in the cervical facet joint, the method comprising the steps of:
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accessing the cervical facet joint;
selecting a first sizing tool, the sizing tool having a distal rounded head with a tapered tip, the tapered tip to facilitate insertion, and the head variable in size from one sizing tool to another;
inserting the first sizing tool into the cervical facet joint until a stop on the first sizing tool prevents further insertion;
evaluating the fit of the fist sizing tool and the amount of distraction of the cervical facet joint from insertion of the sizing tool; and
considering an implant based on the evaluating step. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12)
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Specification