Versatile method of repairing an intervertebral disc
Systems for minimally invasive disc augmentation include an anulus augmentation component and, optionally, a nucleus augmentation component. Both are suited for minimally invasive deployment. The anulus augmentation component shields weakened regions of the anulus fibrosis and/or resists escape of natural nucleus pulposus and/or the nucleus augmentation component. Methods and deployment devices are also disclosed. Systems and methods for closing a defect in the anulus are also provided.
1. A versatile method of treating an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment comprising:
identifying a functional spine unit comprising an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment, a superior vertebral body, and an inferior vertebral body;
wherein the weakened anulus segment comprises a protruding herniated segment implanting a biocompatible support member and an anchor,
wherein said anchor is configured to be anchored within bone or soft tissue of said functional spine unit;
positioning said support member to, within or posterior to said weakened anulus segment;
anchoring said anchor to a site within the functional spine unit;
connecting said support member to said anchor with a connection member; and
applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby retaining and supporting said weakened anulus segment and returning said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said support member is positioned to contact an innermost surface of an anulus of an intervertebral disc adjacent the weakened anulus segment.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said support member comprises a second anchor.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein anchoring said anchor into a site within the functional spine unit comprises anchoring said anchor within anulus tissue of the intervertebral disc.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein said anulus tissue is within or adjacent to the weakened anulus segment.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein anchoring said anchor into a site within the functional spine unit comprises anchoring said anchor within one of the superior vertebral body and the inferior vertebral body.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein said connection member comprises a suture.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein said connection member comprises woven material.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein said weakened anulus segment comprises a pre-existing defect.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein supporting said weakened anulus segment comprises closing the pre-existing defect.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein said connection member is coupled with at least one of said support member or said anchor.
12. A versatile method of treating an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment comprising:
identifying a functional spine unit comprising an intervertebral disc having a weakened anulus segment, a superior vertebral body, and an inferior vertebral body;
wherein the weakened anulus segment comprises a protruding herniated segment,
implanting a biocompatible support member and an anchor,
positioning said support member to, within or posterior to said weakened anulus segment;
anchoring said anchor to a site within the functional spine unit;
connecting said support member to said anchor with a connection member, wherein the connection member comprises a suture; and
applying tension and tightening said connection member, thereby retaining and supporting said weakened anulus segment and returning said herniated segment to a pre-herniated border.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the support member comprises a second anchoring device.
14. The method of claim 12 , wherein the support member is positioned on an inner surface of the anulus adjacent to the nucleus.
15. The method of claim 12 , further comprising the step of closing a hole in said weakened anulus segment.
16. The method of claim 12 , wherein said anchoring device is configured to be positioned within bone tissue or soft tissue of said functional spine unit.