Spinous Process Spacer Implant and Technique
First Claim
1. A spinous process spacer device operable for surgical implantation between the spinous processes of adjacent upper and lower vertebrae, the spacer device thereafter maintaining a desired space between the adjacent spinous processes, the spacer device comprising a tubular member having an axis, a length, an axial lumen coextensive with said length, an outer diameter, an upper end and a lower end, said upper and lower ends each having a pair of diametrically opposed notches therein along said outer diameter of said spacer device wherein said pair of diametrically opposed notches in said upper end is aligned with said pair of diametrically opposed notches in said lower end and wherein said pairs of diametrically opposed notches are dimensioned to receive a portion of said spinous processes therewithin and said axial lumen providing a pathway for fusion of said spinous processes of said adjacent upper and lower vertebrae when said spacer device is disposed between said adjacent spinous processes.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A spinous process spacer implant for relief of back pain is disclosed. The implant, a generally H-shaped device having grooved ends, is made of human allograft or other suitable artificial or natural material. It is sized for implantation between and optional attachment to adjacent spinous processes. The implant may be hollow in the center to allow for addition of suitable biological material.
184 Citations
8 Claims
- 1. A spinous process spacer device operable for surgical implantation between the spinous processes of adjacent upper and lower vertebrae, the spacer device thereafter maintaining a desired space between the adjacent spinous processes, the spacer device comprising a tubular member having an axis, a length, an axial lumen coextensive with said length, an outer diameter, an upper end and a lower end, said upper and lower ends each having a pair of diametrically opposed notches therein along said outer diameter of said spacer device wherein said pair of diametrically opposed notches in said upper end is aligned with said pair of diametrically opposed notches in said lower end and wherein said pairs of diametrically opposed notches are dimensioned to receive a portion of said spinous processes therewithin and said axial lumen providing a pathway for fusion of said spinous processes of said adjacent upper and lower vertebrae when said spacer device is disposed between said adjacent spinous processes.
Specification