Patent ID: 12011180

Abstract:
Disclosed are tools and devices for use in repairing an intervertebral disc. The devices include an anchor configured to be secured in a vertebra adjacent the intervertebral disc and a prosthesis having an active part that is configured for placement inside the nucleus of the disc. The tools include an anchor placement tool that includes a chisel for carving the vertebra and a rotatable part that is used for engaging with and screwing the anchor into the vertebra. The tools also include a prosthesis placement tool that is configured to support and facilitate an attachment of the prosthesis to the anchor and to deploy the active part of the prosthesis in the nucleus of the disc. According to one embodiment the prosthesis placement tool is equipped with electronics for the purpose of verifying a corrected attachment of the prosthesis to the anchor. According to other embodiments, the electronics are included in a separate checker tool.