Abstract: A device is disclosed for insertion in the human or animal body in order to increase the spacing between adjacent spinous processes of the spinal column. The device comprises a plurality of shaped members which are pivotally joined to each other and arranged around a central screwed rod which is supported by a collar at one end and a threaded collar at the opposite end said collar and collar being located within the pivoting axis of the adjacent members forming each end of the device. Following insertion in the body and positioning between adjacent spinous processes the device may be deployed by rotation of the central screwed rod in order to achieve the desired separation of adjacent spinous processes while at the same time providing a secure location of the device in the deployed condition.

Abstract: A device for insertion between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae of the human spine includes a first tapered screw-like component dismountably assembled to a second component by means of a centrally located shaped rod. The second component includes a self-locating spacer member which remains in position between adjacent spinous processes after removal of the tapered screw-like portion.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for insertion in the human or animal body in order to increase the spacing between adjacent spinous processes of the spinal column. The device comprises a plurality of shaped members which are pivotally joined to each other and arranged around a central screwed rod which is supported by a collar at one end and a threaded collar at the opposite end said collar and collar being located within the pivoting axis of the adjacent members forming each end of the device. Following insertion in the body and positioning between adjacent spinous processes the device may be deployed by rotation of the central screwed rod in order to achieve the desired separation of adjacent spinous processes while at the same time providing a secure location of the device in the deployed condition.

Abstract: A device for insertion into a space between adjacent processes of vertebrae comprising a flexible enclosure which can be placed in a collapsed form prior to insertion between adjacent processes of vertebrae and subsequently placed in an expanded form by injection of a settable resin under pressure, wherein surfaces of the device facing the adjacent processes of vertebrae are closer together in said collapsed form and further apart in said expanded form.