Facet arthroplasty devices and methods

Abstract

Devices and surgical methods treat various types of adult spinal pathologies, such as degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, degenerative lumbar scoliosis, and kypho-scoliosis. Various types of spinal joint replacement prostheses, surgical procedures for performing spinal joint replacements, and surgical instruments are used to perform the surgical procedures.

1 . A method for stabilizing the posterior element in adjacent vertebrae, comprising: 
 rigidly coupling a first member to a first vertebra;    movably coupling a second member to a second vertebra, the second member being slidably movable relative to the first member to control movement of the first and second vertebrae relative to one another.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first and second members substantially prevent axial rotation of the first and second vertebrae relative to one another.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first and second members limit extension of the first and second vertebrae relative to one another.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first and second members control lateral bending and flexion of the first and second vertebrae relative to one another.