Patent ID: 8157786
Filing Date: 2012-04-17
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: inserting an elongate member percutaneously into a spine of a patient, the elongate member comprising a lumen extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the elongate member, the elongate member further comprising an axial slot extending from the proximal end to the distal end in communication with the lumen, wherein the axial slot is at least partially covered by a frangible cover; inserting a catheter percutaneously into the spine of the patient through the lumen of the elongate member, the catheter including an anchoring member; deploying the anchoring member to anchor the catheter in the patient's spine; deforming the frangible cover and removing the elongate member by passing the catheter from the lumen through the axial slot; delivering a substance via the catheter into the patient through and beyond the anchoring member anchored in the patient's spine, wherein the substance is delivered through the catheter to emerge directly into the intervertebral disc distal to the anchoring member; and identifying the intervertebral disc which is causing pain after delivering the substance and while the catheter is anchored in the spine.