Surgery: light – thermal – and electrical application – Light – thermal – and electrical application – Electrical energy applicator
Reexamination Certificate
2007-10-31
2011-12-20
Gibson, Roy (Department: 3739)
Surgery: light, thermal, and electrical application
Light, thermal, and electrical application
Electrical energy applicator
C607S099000, C607S113000, C606S032000, C606S041000
Reexamination Certificate
active
08082043
ABSTRACT:
A percutaneous method treats degenerate disc disease characterized by a circumferential bulge. The method provides a catheter having a distal end, a proximal end, and a longitudinal axis, the distal end having an intradiscal section with at least one energy delivery device. The next step is applying a force longitudinally to the proximal end of the catheter which is sufficient to advance the intradiscal section through a nucleus pulposus and around an inner wall of an annulus, but which force is insufficient for the intradiscal section to puncture the annulus fibrosus. Next the energy delivery device is positioned at a selected location of the annulus by advancing or retracting the catheter and optionally twisting the proximal end of the catheter. The thermal energy delivery device is positioned adjacent the annulus and used to heat and stiffen the disc. Optionally, there is an additional step of adding a substance to reinforce the area. Optionally, access to the disc is provided by an introducer having an introducer lumen with an opening at a terminus of the introducer. An externally guidable intervertebral disc apparatus also is disclosed.
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Ashley John
Saal Jeffrey
Saal Joel
Sharkey Hugh R.
Arent & Fox LLP
Gibson Roy
Neurotherm, Inc.
Smith Kaitlyn
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