Patent ID: 8506604
Filing Date: 2013-08-13
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method for stabilizing a spinal segment, comprising: (a) introducing a first pedicle screw into a first pedicle of a spine; (b) introducing a second pedicle screw into a second pedicle of the spine; (c) providing a dynamic stabilization device, including: (i) a dynamic stabilizing member, (ii) a first dynamic junction for operative association with a first end of the dynamic stabilizing member, and (iii) a second dynamic junction for operative association with a second end of the dynamic stabilizing member; (d) mounting the first dynamic junction of the dynamic stabilization device with respect to the first pedicle screw; and (e) mounting the second dynamic junction of the dynamic stabilization device with respect to the second pedicle screw, wherein each of the first and second dynamic junctions supports three degrees of rotational freedom; wherein the dynamic stabilization device enables and provides resistance to relative movement between the first and second pedicles in a first axis; and wherein the dynamic stabilizing member exhibits a variable spring rate that is greater when the spine is within a neutral zone than when the spine is outside of the neutral zone.