| abstract |
Methods and devices for fixing a defect in a vertebral disc of a patient. One method includes inserting a guide wire into a disc using an anterior approach to create a path. At least a portion of the herniated nucleus pulposus is removed. A disc reconstruction device is then advanced into the disc and fastened to the disc or at least one of the surrounding vertebrae. Alternatively, a passage could be formed in the cranial or caudal vertebra using an angled anterior approach that terminates in a region of the disc containing the herniated nucleus pulposus. At least a portion of the herniated nucleus pulposus is removed. A disc reconstruction device that has a bone in-growth component and a soft tissue in-growth component is then implanted in the passage. Devices having bone and soft tissue in-growth components and having a flexible spine with a plurality of ribs are also described. |