Patent ID: 8211147
Filing Date: 2012-07-03
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for replacing at least a portion of a natural facet joint that controls motion between a first vertebra and a second vertebra, the method comprising: implanting a first fixation member in a pedicle of the second vertebra; securing a first end of an inferior strut of an inferior facet joint implant to the first fixation member, the inferior facet joint implant further comprising an attachment mechanism having a capture feature, and an inferior articular surface shaped to replace a natural inferior facet articular surface of the second vertebra, wherein the inferior articular surface is formed separately from the inferior strut; receiving a second end of the inferior strut in the capture feature, the second end comprising a sphere having an uninterrupted hemispherical surface; rotating the second end relative to the inferior articular surface about three orthogonal axes to a desired orientation; and locking the second end relative to the inferior articular surface, wherein the capture feature for receiving the second end of the strut therein is formed monolithically with the inferior articular surface.