Patent ID: 8372150
Filing Date: 2013-02-12
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of implanting an artificial spinal joint, the method comprising: providing an artificial spinal joint comprising a first arthroplasty half separated from a second arthroplasty half, the first and second arthroplasty halves each comprising a first member including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface including a convex protrusion and a second member including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface of the second member including a concave socket configured for disposal of the protrusion; positioning the first and second arthroplasty halves within an intervertebral disc space between a superior vertebra and an inferior vertebra such that the first surfaces of the first members engage an endplate of the superior vertebra and the protrusions are disposed in the sockets; positioning first extensions each extending toward the inferior vertebra from a side surface of each of the second members such that the first extensions engage a posterior wall of the inferior vertebra, the first extensions each including an aperture; positioning second extensions each extending toward the inferior vertebra from the posterior end of each of the second members such that the second extensions engage the posterior wall of the inferior vertebra; and positioning third extensions extending toward the inferior vertebra from the posterior end of each of the first members such that the third extensions engage the second extensions and the artificial spinal joint mimics functions of natural facet joints.