Patent ID: 7491219
Filing Date: 2009-02-17
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for insertion of an implant between end plates of respective adjacent vertebra comprising the steps of: employing a pair of pick and place tools, each mounted on a surgical vehicle via a hand, to insert an inflatable implant between said end plates, said inflatable implant being partially deflated upon insertion thereof between said end plates; employing an inflation tool, which is pre-attached to an outward end of a conduit in communication with a valve forming part of said inflatable implant to inflate said inflatable implant, thus causing expansion of the inflatable implant; following inflation of the inflatable implant to a required extent, slidingly inserting batten bearing tools between adjacent end plates by means of forceps tools, such that edge protrusions of battens thereof lie in channels of respective end plates; thereafier, slightly deflating the inflatable implant, to an extent that the outer dimensions of the implant are decreased thereby tightly engaging said battens between respective end plates; deflating said inflatable implant; removing said inflatable implant from between respective end plates; and inserting at least one disc replacement band between facing end plates of adjacent vertebrae, following removal of said inflatable implant.