Method for replacing a natural facet joint with a prosthesis having an artificial facet joint structure

摘要

A prosthesis replaces all or a portion of a natural facet joint on a vertebral body. The prosthesis has a prosthesis body that accommodates fixation to the vertebral body at or near a pedicle and without support by a lamina. The prosthesis also has an artificial facet joint structure carried by the prosthesis body. The artificial facet joint structure is adapted and configured to replace all or a portion of a natural facet joint.