Facet device and method
A spine implant includes an insert positioned between facets of a zygapophyseal joint. In various embodiments, the insert is configured to exert a distraction force on one or more facets of the zygapophyseal joint. The insert may comprise one or more members having one or more opposing facet interfacing portions. A securing member is configured to interface with the insert to secure the facets.
1. A facet implant comprising:
an insert positionable between a first facet of a facet joint and a second facet of the facet joint, the insert configured to exert a distraction force on the first and second facets:
an anchor connected to the insert and configured to secure to one of the first and second facets;
a sensor coupled to the insert and configured to sense load on the facet joint; and
a shrink-wrap material secured at least partially around the insert,
wherein the shrink-wrap material includes burrs or barbs.
2. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the anchor includes a bone anchor.
3. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the anchor includes a barb.
4. The facet implant of claim 1 , further including a second anchor connected to the insert and configured to secure to the other of the first and second facets.
5. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert includes a block configured to wedge between the first and second facets.
6. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert includes a ball.
7. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert includes a coiled spring.
8. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert includes an expandable polymer.
9. The facet implant of claim 8 , wherein the expandable polymer includes a hydrogel, a gel foam, or combination thereof.
10. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert is configured to inflate and distract the facet joint when the insert receives an inflation medium therein while positioned within a facet joint capsule defined between the first and second facets, the inflation medium including a curable polymer, a liquid, a gas, or combination thereof.
11. The facet implant of claim 10 , wherein the inflation medium is selectively removable from the insert to adjust dimensions of the insert.
12. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the shrink-wrap material includes a polymeric material.
13. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the shrink-wrap material includes a coating adapted to reduce tissue ingrowth.
14. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert is formed of metal, polymer, ceramic, or combinations thereof.
15. The facet implant of claim 1 , wherein the insert contains a therapeutic agent.