Patent ID: 8292925
Filing Date: 2012-10-23
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A flexible member for use in stabilizing a spine comprising: a polymeric body including opposing first and second ends having an intermediate portion extending therebetween, with each opposing end configured for cooperation with an anchor member, the polymeric body including at least one first portion comprising a first polymeric material having a first elasticity and at least one second portion comprising a second polymeric material having a second elasticity greater than the first elasticity to provide the flexible member with a variable flexibility; wherein the first and second portions both extend radially out to a lateral outer edge of the polymeric body; wherein the polymeric body includes a lumen extending lengthwise therethrough; wherein the first and second portions both extend radially inward to a surface of the lumen, such that each of the first and second portions defines at least a portion of the surface; wherein the at least one first portion comprises a plurality of first portions comprising the first material having the first elasticity and the at least one second portion comprises a plurality of second portions comprising the second material having the second elasticity, and wherein the body includes a lengthwise central axis, the plurality of first and second portions extending along the length of the body and being alternately situated about the axis thereof.