Patent ID: 7896906
Filing Date: 2011-03-01
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for stabilizing the posterior element in adjacent vertebrae, comprising: coupling a first portion of a first member to a first vertebra and a second member to a second vertebra such that an extension rod on the second member extends through a bearing element disposed within a second portion of the first member and such that the extension rod extends out of opposite ends of the second portion, the bearing element being rotatably disposed within the first member to thereby allow flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the first and second vertebrae relative to one another, the extension rod sliding freely through the bearing element during movement of the first and second vertebrae, and the second member including a stop formed thereon for limiting movement of the second member relative to the bearing element; wherein the first member is coupled to the first vertebra by implanting a bone engaging member in the first vertebra and mating the first portion of the first member to the bone engaging member, and wherein the second member is coupled to the second vertebra by implanting a bone engaging member in the second vertebra and mating a portion of the second member to the bone engaging member; and wherein the first member is substantially L-shaped with the first portion being adapted to mate to the bone engaging element, and the second portion having the bearing element rotatably disposed therein, and the second member comprises a substantially elongate member having a first portion that is adapted to mate to the bone engaging element and a second portion that is adapted to be disposed through the bearing element.