Methods and systems for constraint of spinous processes with attachment

Abstract

Spinal implants for limiting flexion of the spine are implanted between a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process or sacrum. The implants include upper straps which are placed over the upper spinous process, while the lower portions of the implant are attached to the adjacent vertebra or sacrum. The attachments may be fixed, for example using screws or other anchors, or may be non-fixed, for example by placing a loop strap through a hole in the spinous process or sacrum.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for restricting flexion of a spine, said method comprising:
 non-fixedly attaching one segment of a tether structure over a superior spinous process of a vertebra and at least one other segment of the tether structure to a sacrum;   wherein the tether structure comprises at least one compliance member which elastically elongates to controllably restrict flexion.