Patent ID: 7993405
Filing Date: 2011-08-09
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for treating an intervertebral disc having an aperture, a weakened portion, or a thin walled portion in the annulus fibrosus of said intervertebral disc, comprising the steps of: providing a treatment device and a treatment device delivery tool, said delivery tool comprising an elongate delivery member having a proximal portion, and a distal portion; said distal portion comprising a tissue piercing element, said proximal portion connected to a handle device, said treatment device comprising a first anchor, a second anchor, and an interconnecting assembly connecting said first and second anchors, wherein the treatment device is at least partially disposed within the distal portion of the delivery tool elongate delivery member and the interconnecting assembly is at least partially disposed exterior to the delivery tool elongate delivery member, prior to delivery of the treatment device, said delivery tool comprising an ejection rod disposed at least partially within the delivery tool elongate delivery member, and actuating said ejection rod to expel said treatment device from the distal portion of said delivery tool into tissue surrounding said aperture, weakened portion, or thin walled portion in the annulus fibrosus.