Apparatus for thermal treatment of an intervertebral disc

Details Apparatus for thermal treatment of an intervertebral disc Apparatus for thermal treatment of an intervertebral disc

2011-03-01

2011-03-01

Gibson, Roy D. (Department: 3739)

Surgery

Instruments

Electrical application

C606S027000, C607S101000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07896872

ABSTRACT:
An apparatus and method for treating an intervertebral disc having an inner nucleus pulposus and an outer annulus fibrosus includes a thermal probe defining proximal and distal ends and having a guidable region adjacent the distal end thereof. The guidable region is characterized by having sufficient rigidity to advance within the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc in response to an axial force exerted on the proximal end of the thermal probe while having sufficient flexibility to substantially follow and conform to an azimuthal course defined by the natural striata of the annulus fibrosus. The thermal probe is adapted for connection to a thermal energy source to provide thermal energy to the annulus fibrosus to alleviate pain associated with the intervertebral disc.

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