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System and method for facet joint replacement with detachable coupler

  • US 8,206,418 B2
  • Filed: 08/29/2008
  • Issued: 06/26/2012
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/10/2007
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method comprising:

  • positioning an assembly proximate a natural facet joint of a spine, the assembly comprising a superior facet joint implant comprising a superior articular surface shaped to replace a natural superior articular surface of a first vertebra of the spine, an inferior facet joint implant comprising an inferior articular surface shaped to replace a natural inferior articular surface of a second vertebra of the spine, and a deformable coupler coupled to the superior and inferior facet joint implants;

    securing the superior facet joint implant to the first vertebra of the spine;

    securing an inferior fixation portion of the inferior facet joint implant to a pedicle of the second vertebra of the spine; and

    detaching the coupler from the superior and inferior facet joint implants,wherein the deformable coupler comprises a clip having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being linked by a connecting portion that is deformable,wherein when the connecting portion is flexed, the first end rotates about a first axis and the second end rotates about a second axis.

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