Abstract: A system for restricting spinal flexion includes superior and inferior tether structures joined by a pair of compliance members. Compliance members comprise tension members which apply a relatively low elastic tension on the tether structures. By placing the tether structures on or over adjacent spinous processes, flexion of a spinal segment can be controlled in order to reduce pain.

Abstract: Spinous process constraint structures include a first attachment element for placement over a first spinous process and a second attachment element for placement over a second spinous process. The attachment elements are joined by a single connector which may optionally include a compliance member for providing controlled elasticity between the spinous processes.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for constraining spinous processes to elastically limit flexion of two or more adjacent spinal segments rely on placing a tether structure over at least three adjacent vertebral bodies or two adjacent vertebral bodies and the sacrum. The tether structures may be continuous, for example in the form of a continuous loop, or may be discontinuous, for example in the form of a loop or elongate element having at least two anchor structures for securing in bone.

Abstract: A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.

Abstract: A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.

Abstract: A system for restricting spinal flexion includes superior and inferior tether structures joined by a pair of compliance members. Compliance members comprise tension members which apply a relatively low elastic tension on the tether structures. By placing the tether structures on or over adjacent spinous processes, flexion of a spinal segment can be controlled in order to reduce pain.

Abstract: A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.

Abstract: An exemplary method for constraining spinous processes to elastically limit flexion of a spinal segment comprises piercing an interspinous ligament to form a first penetration above an upper side of an upper spinous process and advancing a first end of a first tether through the first penetration. The interspinous ligament is pierced again to form a second penetration below a lower side of a lower spinous process and a second end of a second tether is advanced through the second penetration. Joining the first and second tethers together forms an extensible tether structure coupling the upper and lower spinous processes together while permitting extension therebetween. Adjusting the tether structure sets relative distance or angle between the upper and lower spinous processes to a target value.

Abstract: A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.

Abstract: Methods and kits for implanting constraints around spinous processes are described.

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.

Abstract: A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.