LATERAL SPINOUS PROCESS SPACER

摘要

Interspinous process implants are disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and kits including such implants, methods of inserting such implants, and methods of alleviating pain or discomfort associated with the spinal column.

主权项

1. A method for stabilizing the vertebral column comprising:
inserting a guidewire into a surgical site along a lateral surgical path, the guide wire extending from above a patient's skin to an interspinous space; inserting a plurality of sequentially larger diameter tubes over the guide wire to dilate tissue and create a working surgical corridor; inserting an implant over the guidewire and positioning the implant between adjacent spinous processes in the interspinous space, the implant comprising:
a cannulated body comprising a support portion extending laterally along a lateral axis between first and second end portions, the body defining a cannula extending therethrough along the lateral axis;wherein at least a portion of the first end portion extends beyond the support portion in a direction perpendicular to the lateral axis;wherein the device is be inserted between the adjacent spinous processes of the vertebral column in a lateral direction along the lateral axis and is advanceable over the guidewire extending through the cannula;wherein the first end portion is configured and dimensioned to engage and separate the adjacent spinous processes when inserted and to advance the device in the lateral direction to position the support portion in a predetermined position between the adjacent spinous processes;wherein the first end portion comprises a generally wedge shape, andwherein the implant is inserted and positioned between the adjacent spinous processes without removal of the supraspinous ligament.