Patent ID: 8021393
Filing Date: 2011-09-20
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A device for implantation in the vertebral column, comprising: a cannulated body comprising a support portion extending laterally along a lateral axis between first and second end portions, the body defining a cannula extending therethrough along the lateral axis; wherein at least a portion of the first end portion is moveable from a first position to a second position, wherein in the second position the moveable portion extends beyond the support portion in a direction perpendicular to the lateral axis to a greater extent than in the first position, wherein in the first position the first end portion includes an outer surface and an inner surface that faces a central longitudinal axis of the cannulated body; wherein the device is configured and dimensioned to be inserted between adjacent spinous processes of the vertebral column in a lateral direction along the lateral axis and is advanceable over a guidewire extending through the cannula to position the support portion in a predetermined position between the spinous processes, wherein in such a predetermined position, the moveable portion of the front end is moveable from the first position to the second position; wherein when in the first position the first end portion comprises a ramp on at least a portion of the outer surface configured and dimensioned to engage and separate the adjacent spinous processes when inserted, and when in the second position the first end portion comprises a sidewall on at least a portion of the inner surface, wherein the sidewall is configured and dimensioned to engage a lateral surface of the adjacent spinous processes to limit lateral movement with respect thereto.