Patent ID: 8672974
Filing Date: 2014-03-18
Classification: A61B,A61K,Y10S

Abstract:
1. An apparatus, comprising: a spacer having a central longitudinal axis and configured to be disposed between a first spinous process and a second spinous process adjacent the first spinous process; the spacer having a first end portion configured to contact the first spinous process, the first end portion including a threaded shaft; the spacer having a second end portion configured to contact the second spinous process, the second end portion including a threaded bore configured to engage the threaded shaft such that the spacer can be extended and retracted; the first and second end portions disposed longitudinally opposite each other so that an intermediate section of the spacer is disposed longitudinally therebetween; a first flexible tether coupled to the first end portion of the spacer, the first flexible tether configured to be disposed about the first spinous process and configured to be connected with the first end portion; a second flexible tether coupled to the second end portion of the spacer, the second flexible tether configured to be disposed about the second spinous process and configured to be connected with the second end portion; wherein the first and second flexible tethers are separate and distinct from one another; wherein a theoretical axis, extending perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis and through a center of the spacer midway between the first and second openings, divides the spacer into asymmetrical upper and lower portions.