Patent ID: 6073051
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: A61B,A61F,A61M,A61N

Abstract:
An externally guidable intervertebral disc apparatus comprising:a proximal end for externally guiding a distal end of the apparatus within an intervertebral disc;a self-navigating intradiscal section adjacent a distal end of the apparatus which navigates itself adjacent an inner wall of an annulus of the disc when the apparatus is extended into an intervertebral disc, the intradiscal section having (a) sufficient rigidity to be advanceable through a nucleus pulposus and around the inner wall of an annulus fibrosus under a force applied longitudinally to the proximal end of the apparatus, (b) insufficient penetration ability to be advanceable out through the annulus fibrosus under the applied force, and (c) sufficient flexibility in a direction of a disc plane to be compliant with the inner wall; andan electromagnetic energy device incorporated into the apparatus adjacent the intradiscal section.