Patent ID: 6017343
Filing Date: 2000-01-25
Classification: A61B,C07C

Abstract:
A method for treating spinal conditions by moving or spatially fixing at least a first vertebra relative to a second vertebra while leaving exposed at least a lateral marginal area of the lamina of one of said vertebrae, the method including steps of:fixing a first attachment member to the first vertebra at a selected position;fixing a second attachment member to the second vertebra at a selected position;providing at least one one-piece spinal implant link member having an apertured first end, an apertured second end, and an offset middle portion, the first and second ends of the link member defining an open space therebetween which space is disposed adjacent the middle portion and extends away from the middle portion to a line connecting the apertures in the ends of the link member;attaching said first end of said at least one link member to said first attachment member which is fixed to the first vertebra; andattaching said second end of said at least one link member to said second attachment member which is fixed to the second vertebra so that a force is exerted on the first vertebra by said at least one link member;whereby a lateral marginal area of the lamina of one of said vertebrae is exposed by said space of said link member and provides an area for performing a bone graft.