Spinal Stabilization Devices, Systems, and Methods

Abstract

This specification describes spinal stabilization devices that may be introduced into the spine via surgical procedures. In particular, this specification describes an inter-spinous process spacer having a core chosen, in one variation, to provide a kyphotic or lordotic angle to the device. The specification also describes systems including the described devices and methods of introducing the devices and systems into the spine to provide effective stabilization.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An interspinous spinal stabilization device implantable between upper and lower spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in a spine, the spine having a spinal axis that is substantially parallel with the spinal cord in the spine, the device comprising:
 an upper end plate configured to attach to an upper spinous process with a first fixation structure, and further configured with a cavity situated opposite from the first fixation structure, the cavity substantially conforming in shape to a compressible, elastic, polymeric core member;   a lower end plate configured to attach to a lower spinous process with a second fixation structure, and further configured with a cavity situated opposite from the second fixation structure, the cavity substantially conforming in shape to the compressible, elastic, polymeric core member;   one or more flexible members selected from the group consisting of fibers, ribbons, and membranes extending between the upper end plate and the lower end plate and associating movement in one end plate with movement in the other end plate; and   said compressible, elastic, polymeric core member having a core axis along a core length, the core member having dimensions perpendicular to the core length that are all shorter than the core length, the core axis forming an included angle with the spinal axis greater than about 35° to and including 90°.