Method for a flexible stabilization system for a vertebral column
First Claim
1. A method of stabilizing a portion of a vertebral column without fusion, the vertebral column having a first and second vertebra, the first vertebrae being adjacent the second vertebra, each vertebra having a posterior vertebral element, said method comprising:
- (a) making an incision to expose the first and second vertebrae;
(b) removing the posterior vertebral element of each of the vertebrae, leaving first and second pedicles of the first vertebra and first and second pedicles of the second vertebra;
(c) anchoring a strong, non-metallic stabilization means stiff enough to stabilize the vertebral column but flexible enough to permit at least limited normal movement of the vertebral column having a first and second end to the posterior vertebral elements of adjacent vertebrae, wherein when anchored said stabilization means stabilizes, without the use of fusion, the vertical column while still providing flexibility so that forces on the stabilization means are dissipated throughout thereby reducing force concentration.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method for a flexible stabilization system for a vertebral column is disclosed. The device includes a strong, non-metallic stabilization element or elements (18) for providing flexibility. The stabilization elements (18) are secured to the vertebrae (11) and (12) wherein, when secured, the stabilization element or elements stabilize the vertical column while still allowing for flexibility. In a preferred embodiment the stabilization elements are anchored to the vertebrae by a bone screw (15) having an upper shank portion (16) and a lower threaded portion (17) having segmented area (17c).
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Citations
5 Claims
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1. A method of stabilizing a portion of a vertebral column without fusion, the vertebral column having a first and second vertebra, the first vertebrae being adjacent the second vertebra, each vertebra having a posterior vertebral element, said method comprising:
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(a) making an incision to expose the first and second vertebrae; (b) removing the posterior vertebral element of each of the vertebrae, leaving first and second pedicles of the first vertebra and first and second pedicles of the second vertebra; (c) anchoring a strong, non-metallic stabilization means stiff enough to stabilize the vertebral column but flexible enough to permit at least limited normal movement of the vertebral column having a first and second end to the posterior vertebral elements of adjacent vertebrae, wherein when anchored said stabilization means stabilizes, without the use of fusion, the vertical column while still providing flexibility so that forces on the stabilization means are dissipated throughout thereby reducing force concentration. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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Specification