SPINAL IMPLANTS AND METHODS

摘要

Spinal implants are disclosed that can be used for annular repair, facet unloading, disc height preservation, disc decompression, or for sealing a portal through which a nucleus implant was placed. In some embodiments, an implant is placed within the intervertebral disc space, primarily within the region of the annulus fibrosus. In some embodiments, the implant comprises a base structure onto which resilient anchor structures are affixed. In some embodiments, the implant comprises a base structure onto which resilient or elastomeric materials are affixed to provide an outer covering for at least a portion of the base structure. In some embodiments, the implant has a sealing tail structure comprising a tail flange and a connector. In some embodiments, the sealing tail structure limits the extrusion or expulsion of disc material, either annulus fibrosus or nucleus, into the posterior region of the spine where it could impinge on nerves. In some embodiments, the tail structure is retained in place within the annulus fibrosus by means of the anchor. In some embodiments, the implant is provided in a plurality of sizes to provide an optimal fit to an individual patient's anatomy. In some embodiments, the implant is delivered using a delivery system that comprises a hand manipulated instrument that is releasably affixed to the implant by a specialized coupler.