Patent ID: 7794456
Filing Date: 2010-09-14
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A method for treating a vertebral disc, the vertebral disc including an annulus fibrosus, a nucleus pulposus, and at least one fissure in the annulus fibrosus, the method comprising: positioning a distal end of a shaft of an electrosurgical probe into the disc, the probe comprising at least one active electrode and at least one return electrode, the at least one active electrode being disposed proximate the distal end of the shaft; positioning the at least one active electrode within a portion of the nucleus pulposus adjacent to and/or in contact with the at least one fissure; removing the portion of nucleus pulposus by applying a high frequency voltage between the at least one active electrode and the at least one return electrode within the portion of the nucleus pulposus; sealing a portion of the nucleus pulposus proximate the at least one fissure; and inserting a sealant material within the disc proximate the at least one fissure in the annulus fibrosus, thereby improving stability of the disc, and wherein the steps of sealing and inserting inhibit migration of the nucleus pulposus through the fissure.