Devices and methods for treating tissue defects

摘要

The present disclosure describes embodiments for treating a defect in a tissue, the tissue having internal and external surfaces. A device includes a first portion for positioning at one of the internal and external surfaces for applying a treatment force to the defect. In addition, the device has a second portion for applying a counter-force, where the second portion is operable to be positioned so that the counter-force is applied on the other of the internal and external surfaces, away from the defect so as to substantially avoid application of force at the defect. Furthermore, the device includes a coupling member for connecting the inner and outer portions. Methods of using the device are described, for example in an intervertebral disc having a herniation.

主权项

1. A device for treating a defect in an intervertebral disc comprising:
(a) an outer portion being positionable at an outer surface of a disc annulus at the defect; (b) an inner portion being anchorable within a nucleus pulposus against an inner surface of the disc annulus spaced apart from the defect substantially without contacting an inner surface of the disc annulus at the defect; and (c) a coupling member for applying a pulling force between said outer portion and said inner portion; said outer portion being configured to apply an inward force against said outer surface of said disc annulus at the defect when the pulling force is applied by the coupling member; and said inner portion being configured to apply an outward force against said inner surface of said disc annulus substantially spaced apart from the defect substantially without contacting an inner surface of the disc annulus at the defect when the pulling force is applied by the coupling member.