Patent ID: 7722647
Filing Date: 2010-05-25
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for replacing at least a portion of a facet joint to limit relative motion between a first vertebra and a second vertebra adjacent to the first vertebra, the apparatus comprising: a first prosthesis comprising: a first fixation portion configured to be attached to the first vertebra; a first articular surface connected to the first fixation portion; and a posterior stabilization surface having a rigid structure; and a second prosthesis comprising: a second fixation portion configured to be attached to the second vertebra; and a second articular surface connected to the second fixation portion; wherein, upon attachment of the first and second fixation portions to the first and second vertebrae, the first and second articular surfaces are shaped and positioned to articulate with each other, the posterior stabilization surface is shaped and positioned to receive contact from the second prosthesis to limit motion of a superior vertebra of the first and second vertebrae in a posterior direction with respect to an inferior vertebra of the first and second vertebrae, and the first and second articular surfaces and the posterior stabilization surface are shaped and positioned to permit unrestricted relative motion of the first and second vertebrae in extension.