Patent ID: 8147526
Filing Date: 2012-04-03
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A spinal surgery method using a device having an elongate member, a first main expandable member connected to a distal portion of the elongate member, a second main expandable member disposed in the first expandable member, a distal expandable member connected to the distal portion of the elongate member adjacent to a distal end of the first main expandable member, and a proximal expandable member connected to the distal portion of the elongate member adjacent to a proximal end of the first main expandable member; the method comprising: inserting the distal portion of the device into the patient; expanding one of the distal expandable member or the proximal expandable member; determining whether the distal portion of the device is properly located; thereafter, deflating one of the distal expandable member or the proximal expandable member; repositioning the distal portion of the device; inflating the proximal expandable member and the distal expandable member; inflating the second main expandable member with a first volume of fluid; identifying whether the patient experiences pain relief while the second main expandable member is expanded with the first volume of fluid; after the identifying step, collapsing the second main expandable member, the proximal expandable member and the distal expandable member and removing the device from the patient.