Steerable vertebroplasty system with cavity creation element

Abstract

Methods and devices for augmenting bone, such as in performing vertebroplasty are disclosed. A bone cement injection needle is provided, having a laterally deflectable distal end. The distal end may be provided with a cavity creation element, such as an inflatable balloon. Systems are also disclosed, including the steerable injection needle, introducer and stylet. The system may additionally include a cement delivery gun, one-time use disposable cement cartridges and a cement mixing chamber. Methods are also disclosed.

1 . A steerable vertebroplasty device, comprising:
 an elongate, tubular body, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen extending therethrough;   a deflectable zone on the distal end of the tubular body, deflectable through an angular range;   a handle on the proximal end of the tubular body; and   a deflection control on the handle; and   a cavity creating element carried by the deflectable zone.   
     
     
         2 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , wherein the deflection control comprises a rotatable element. 
     
     
         3 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , wherein the distal end comprises a distally facing exit port in communication with the central lumen. 
     
     
         4 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , wherein the distal end comprises a laterally facing exit port in communication with the central lumen. 
     
     
         5 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , further comprising an actuator extending axially between the deflection control and the deflectable zone. 
     
     
         6 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 5 , wherein the actuator comprises an axially moveable element. 
     
     
         7 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , wherein the cavity creating element comprises an inflatable balloon. 
     
     
         8 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 7 , wherein the inflatable balloon is disposed proximally of an exit port on the tubular body. 
     
     
         9 . A steerable vertebroplasty device as in  claim 1 , wherein the tubular body comprises a proximal zone and a distal, deflectable zone separated by a transition, and the transition is at least about 15% of the length of the tubular body from the distal end.