Patent ID: 8029550
Filing Date: 2011-10-04
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of implanting a spinal prosthesis comprising: inserting a first relatively flexible member between superior and inferior spinous processes associated with respective superior and inferior vertebrae; the superior vertebra and inferior vertebra separated by an intermediate vertebra; the first member having a channel that extends, after insertion, laterally through the first member; inserting a second relatively stiff member through the channel such that the second member is operatively connected to the first member; removing the second member from the channel and inserting a third relatively stiff member through the channel such that the third member is operatively connected to the first member; wherein the third member has a different stiffness than the second member; anchoring the third member to the intermediate vertebra, while inserted through the channel, at first and second locations disposed on respective first and second lateral sides of the intermediate vertebra.