Kyphon Sarl

Kyphon Inc.

St. Francis Medical Technologies, Inc.

David Bohrer

Charles J Winslow

Henry A Klyce

Ken Y Hsu

James F Zucherman

John J Flynn

Charles A Hartjen

A system and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes in accordance with the present invention can supplement primary fusion devices and methods by immobilizing spinous processes while bone from adjacent vertebral bodies grows together. The system requires less extensive surgical procedures than other common supplemental devices, and preferably does not require bone or ligament removal. One such system comprises three spacers positioned between spinous processes and adjustably connected with a plate positioned on either side of the spinous processes. Each plate includes grips, with each grip positioned adjacent to the spinous process, forming a clamp with a grip connected with the opposing plate.

System and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes

The present invention enables a physician to distract a previously created opening, determine the size of the opening, and alternatively, subsequently assist in inserting an implant between adjacent spinous processes. The distracting device has two prongs which separate as the handle of the device is closed. When the spinous processes are distracted to a desired diameter, the physician can lock the prongs in place, allowing him to determine and select an appropriately sized implant.

Interspinous process implant sizer and distractor with a split head and size indicator and method

Growing community of inventors

Barrington, RI, United States of America

David Bohrer