RADIALLY COMPRESSED DEHYDRATED SPINAL NUCLEUS IMPLANTS

摘要

A radially compressed xerogel spinal nucleus implant (3) is manufactured and
utilized for implantation into an intervertebral disc space. The implant has
an optimized cross-sectional ellipsoid configuration which facilitates
insertion of the implant through a minimal incision in the annulus. Radial
compression is achieved by exerting substantially equilateral circumferential
compression on an object contained within a radially collapsible member (1)
for exerting substantially equilateral circumferential compression on the
object. Radial compression may also be achieved by exerting substantially
equilateral circumferential compression force on a spinal nucleus implant via
gas pressure in a sealed chamber.