Patent ID: 7621955
Filing Date: 2009-11-24
Classification: A61F,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A system for replacing at least a portion of a natural facet of a first vertebra, the system comprising: a first prosthesis comprising: a fixation member implantable in a pedicle of the first vertebra; a strut comprising a first end formed monolithically with the fixation member, and a second end extending from the first end along a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the fixation member, wherein the strut has a length extending between the first and second ends along the direction and a width perpendicular to the length; and a first articular surface on the second end, wherein the first articular surface is shaped to replace a natural articular surface of the first vertebra; wherein the strut is shaped to avoid encircling a spinous process of the first vertebra; wherein the strut width is narrower than the articular surface.