Method and apparatus for spinal stabilization

摘要

A method of limiting at least one degree of movement between a superior vertebral body and an inferior vertebral body of a patient includes advancing a distal end of a stabilization device into a pedicle of the inferior vertebral body. A proximal portion of the stabilization device is positioned such that the proximal portion limits at least one degree of movement between a superior vertebral body and an inferior vertebral body by contacting a surface of the superior vertebral body.

主权项

1. A spinal stabilization device for limiting at least one degree of movement between a superior vertebral body and an inferior vertebral body of a patient, comprising:
an elongate body, having a proximal end and a distal end; a distal anchor on the distal end of the elongate body; a retention structure on the body, proximal to the distal anchor; and a proximal anchor, moveably carried by the body, and including at least one flat surface configured to abut against a surface of an inferior articular process of the superior adjacent vertebral body when the stabilization device is inserted into the inferior adjacent vertebral body, the flat surface extending substantially an entire length of the proximal anchor in a distal-proximal direction; and at least one complementary retention structure on the proximal anchor configured for permitting proximal movement of the body with respect to the proximal anchor but resisting distal movement of the body with respect the proximal anchor.