Patent ID: 8002836

Claim:
A method of supporting a weakened segment of an anulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, said method comprising: identifying a weakened segment of an anulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, wherein said weakened segment comprises a herniated segment; providing a first biocompatible support member; providing a second biocompatible support member; providing a connection member comprising a first end and a second end, wherein said connection member is configured to couple said first biocompatible support member and said second biocompatible support member and provide tension therebetween; securely establishing said first biocompatible support member to, within or posterior to said herniated segment; securely establishing said second biocompatible support member to, within or posterior to the anulus or a vertebral body; connecting said first biocompatible support member and said second biocompatible support member with said connection member; applying tension between said first biocompatible support member and said second biocompatible support member along said connection member and displacing said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border of the disc; and maintaining said tension, thereby supporting said weakened segment.