Methods and Devices for Treating a Multi-Level Spinal Deformity

Abstract

The present application discloses methods for treating a multi-level spinal deformity. The methods may include inserting a tether in a minimally-invasive manner through an entrance incision. The tether is moved along the spine and positioned to reduce and/or eliminate the deformity. Once the tether is positioned along the spine, the tether may be secured to the vertebral members. In one embodiment, the tether includes a rigid section and a flexible section. The tether may be positioned within the spine with the rigid section extending along a first length of the spine and the flexible section extending along a second length of the spine. The different sections provide different corrective forces to the spine to reduce and/or eliminate the spinal deformity. In one embodiment, the rigid section extends along an apex of the spinal deformity.

1 - 2 . (canceled) 
     
     
         3 . A method of treating a multi-level spinal deformity comprising:
 inserting a first end of a tether through an entrance incision into a body;   threading the tether through a plurality of fasteners attached to vertebral members;   positioning a rigid section of the tether at an apex of the spinal deformity;   positioning a flexible section of the tether at an end of the rigid section   moving the first end of the tether through an exit incision and out of the body; and   securing the tether to each of the plurality of fasteners.   
     
     
         4 - 24 . (canceled) 
     
     
         25 . A method of treating a multi-level spinal deformity comprising:
 inserting a tether through an entrance incision;   moving the tether through a plurality of fasteners each attached to one of a plurality of vertebral members;   positioning a rigid section of the tether along a first section of the plurality of vertebral members;   positioning a flexible section of the tether along a second section of the plurality of vertebral members;   positioning a second rigid section of the tether along a third section of the plurality of vertebral members; and   securing the tether to the plurality of vertebral members.   
     
     
         26 - 28 . (canceled) 
     
     
         29 . A method of treating a multi-level spinal deformity comprising:
 inserting a tether through an entrance incision;   moving the tether along a plurality of vertebral members;   positioning a rigid section of the tether along a first section of the plurality of vertebral members;   positioning a flexible section of the tether along a second section of the plurality of vertebral members; and   securing the tether to the plurality of vertebral members.