Patent ID: 7846183
Filing Date: 2010-12-07
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A prosthesis for treating facet joint dysfunction, the prosthesis comprising: a disk with a first face and a second face, at least one face adapted for sliding contact with the bony or cartilaginous articular surfaces of the facets of adjacent vertebrae, wherein the disk has at least one retaining aperture extending from the first face to the second face; and a retaining member adapted for securing the location of the disk with respect to at least one of the articular surfaces, the retaining member comprising a longitudinal member extending through the aperture, and a pair of enlarged structures each disposed on opposite sides of the disk; wherein the disk is movable along the longitudinal member; wherein at least one of the enlarged structures has a first configuration wherein the enlarged structure is movable along the longitudinal member, and a second configuration wherein the enlarged structure is fixed relative to the longitudinal member; and wherein at least one of the enlarged structures comprises a retaining ring capable of engaging the longitudinal member, the retaining ring comprising a set-screw.