Patent ID: 8377103
Filing Date: 2013-02-19
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of replacing a portion of a facet of a mammalian vertebra, the method comprising: removing at least a portion of a natural facet from a first mammalian vertebra, attaching a first fixation device to the first mammalian vertebra, attaching a first prosthesis to the first fixation device, the first prosthesis having a first articulating surface, the first articulating surface movable with respect to the first prosthesis, attaching a second fixation device to a second mammalian vertebra, attaching a second prosthesis to the second fixation device, the second prosthesis having a second articulating surface, attaching a connector between the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis, wherein the connector is independent from the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis, and wherein the connector is adjustable in length; and positioning the first articulating surface and second articulating surface such that a configuration of the first and second articulating surfaces is unlike a preexisting articular configuration between the natural facet of the first mammalian vertebra and a natural facet of the second mammalian vertebra.