Versatile method of repairing an intervertebral disc
First Claim
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1. A versatile method of treating an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment comprising:
- identifying a functional spine unit comprising an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment, a superior vertebral body, and an inferior vertebral body;
wherein the weakened anulus segment comprises a protruding herniated segment implanting a biocompatible support member and an anchor,wherein said anchor is configured to be anchored within bone or soft tissue of said functional spine unit;
positioning said support member to, within or posterior to said weakened anulus segment;
anchoring said anchor to a site within the functional spine unit;
connecting said support member to said anchor with a connection member; and
applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby retaining and supporting said weakened anulus segment and returning said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border.
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Abstract
Systems for minimally invasive disc augmentation include an anulus augmentation component and, optionally, a nucleus augmentation component. Both are suited for minimally invasive deployment. The anulus augmentation component shields weakened regions of the anulus fibrosis and/or resists escape of natural nucleus pulposus and/or the nucleus augmentation component. Methods and deployment devices are also disclosed. Systems and methods for closing a defect in the anulus are also provided.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A versatile method of treating an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment comprising:
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identifying a functional spine unit comprising an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment, a superior vertebral body, and an inferior vertebral body; wherein the weakened anulus segment comprises a protruding herniated segment implanting a biocompatible support member and an anchor, wherein said anchor is configured to be anchored within bone or soft tissue of said functional spine unit; positioning said support member to, within or posterior to said weakened anulus segment; anchoring said anchor to a site within the functional spine unit; connecting said support member to said anchor with a connection member; and applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby retaining and supporting said weakened anulus segment and returning said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. A versatile method of treating an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment comprising:
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identifying a functional spine unit comprising an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment, a superior vertebral body, and an inferior vertebral body; wherein the weakened anulus segment comprises a protruding herniated segment, implanting a biocompatible support member and an anchor, positioning said support member to, within or posterior to said weakened anulus segment; anchoring said anchor to a site within the functional spine unit; connecting said support member to said anchor with a connection member, wherein the connection member comprises a suture; and applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby retaining and supporting said weakened anulus segment and returning said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16)
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Specification