POSTERIOR STABILIZATION SYSTEM

摘要

Methods and devices for replacing damaged, injured, diseased, or unhealthy posterior elements, such as the facet joints, the lamina, the posterior ligaments, and other features of a spinal column, are provided. In one embodiment, a posterior implant is provided and it can be adapted to control movement of two or more adjacent vertebrae. In particular, the implant can be adapted to control extension, flexion, and lateral bending of the adjacent vertebrae. The implant can also be adapted to substantially prevent rotation of the adjacent vertebrae. In another embodiment, the implant can have an envelope of motion that is within an envelope of motion of a disc, either natural or artificial, that is disposed between the adjacent vertebrae. The implant can also be adapted to substantially prevent rotation of the vertebrae relative to one another.