Patent ID: 7879104
Filing Date: 2011-02-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An interspinous spacer system comprising: a core having a shape configured to fit in an interspinous space between adjacent first and second spinous processes; a first fork being movable relative to said core from a non-use position to an in-use position; wherein when in said in-use position, the first fork extends outwardly from a first side of the core and has a first inner side bounding a first opening configured to receive the first spinous process; a second fork extending outwardly from a second side of said core opposite from the first side, said second fork having a second inner side bounding the first opening for receiving the first spinous process; third and fourth forks extending outwardly from the first and second sides of the core respectively and forming a second opening that faces away from the first opening and is configured to receive the second spinous process; the second, third, and fourth forks affixed relative to the core and relative to each other; wherein said first fork avoids protruding from said core to allow said core to be inserted into the interspinous space in said non-use position to avoid damage to a supraspinous ligament adjacent the space; wherein said first fork is pivotally connected to said core.