Patent ID: 8137355
Filing Date: 2012-03-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of installing a vertebral stabilization system, the method comprising: inserting an installation tool to a first vertebra of a spinal column, the installation tool including a handle portion and a shaft extending from the handle portion, the shaft including a conduit for directing a flexible implant member and an anchoring mechanism for applying an anchor; advancing a flexible implant member axially within the conduit and out from a distal end of the shaft of the installation tool; actuating the anchoring mechanism to expel a first anchor to secure the flexible implant member to the first vertebra; further advancing the flexible implant member axially within the conduit and out from the distal end of the shaft of the installation tool while moving the distal end of the shaft to a second vertebra; actuating the anchoring mechanism to expel a second anchor to secure the flexible implant member to the second vertebra; and cutting away an excess portion of the flexible implant member.