Devices and methods for treating facet joints, uncovertebral joints, costovertebral joints and other joints

摘要

#$%^&*AU2014200032B920160908.pdf#####ABSTRACT The present invention describes methods, devices and instruments for resurfacing or replacing facet joints, uncovertebral joints and costovertebral joints. The joints can be prepared by smoothing the articular surface on one side, by distracting the joint and by implant insertion. Implants can be stabilized against a first articular surface by creating a high level of conformance with said first articular surface, while smoothing the second articular surface with a surgical instrument with a smooth mating implant surface. Fig. 1 A1/19 OBTAIN MEASUREMENT OF 24 TARGET JOINT 10 OPTIONAL GENERATE MODEL REPRESENTATION OF 25 TARGET JOINT 30 OPTIONAL GENERATE PROJECTED MODEL REPRESENTATION 32 26 OF TARGET JOINT 40 OPTIONAL' 41 SELECT SUITABLE JOINT REPLACEMENT IMPLANT 50 OPTIONAL ' FIG. 1A