Patent ID: 9198767
Filing Date: 2015-12-01
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for immobilization of a facet joint, comprising: approaching a lateral aspect of a first facet joint that comprises an articulation between an inferior articulating process of a superior vertebral bone and a superior articulating process of an immediately inferior vertebral bone; positioning a first segment of an orthopedic implant to abut a lateral side wall of said superior articulating process of said inferior vertebral bone; positioning a second segment of said orthopedic implant to extend medial to a lateral side wall of said first facet joint; coupling a first bone fastener to said first segment of said orthopedic implant; advancing said first bone fastener in a lateral to medial trajectory through the superior articulating process of said inferior vertebral bone and into the inferior articulating process of said superior vertebral bone; coupling a second bone fastener to said second segment of said orthopedic implant; and advancing said second bone fastener in a medial to a lateral trajectory and into a second facet joint positioned contralateral to said first facet joint.