DEVICES AND METHODS FOR STABILIZING TISSUE AND IMPLANTS

Abstract

An implant for repairing a joint between a first bone and a second bone includes a first section constructed of a substantially rigid material and a graft constructed of soft tissue having a first end and a second end. The first section has a first end surface configured for positioning against the first bone. The graft is configured for stabilizing the first section relative to the first bone. A first fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first section to anchor the graft to the first section. A second fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first bone to anchor the graft to the first bone.

Claims

1. A method for securing soft tissue in an operation region between an operation site and a skin incision, the method comprising: a) performing a surgical procedure on a patient, the soft tissue including a ligament having a first ligament end and a second ligament end; b) securing a suture to the first ligament end on the way out of the operation region; c) securing the suture to the second ligament end on the way out of the operation region; d) tightening the suture to draw the first ligament end toward the second ligament end; and e) compressing additional soft tissue of the soft tissue utilizing the suture.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ligament is comprised of a ligamentum flavum and further comprising: f) securing a first fastener to the first ligament end and securing the suture to the first fastener in step (b); and g) securing a second fastener to the second ligament end and securing the suture to the second fastener in step (c).

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: h) securing a vertebral body suture to a first vertebral body of a first vertebra associated with the first ligament end; i) securing the vertebral body suture to a second vertebral body of a second vertebra, the second vertebra being adjacent to the first vertebra; and j) tightening the vertebral body suture to provide flexible fixation of a spinal joint between the first and second vertebrae and restrict the range of motion of the spinal joint.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the soft tissue includes muscle that is disturbed during the surgical procedure and further comprising: f) reattaching a first portion of the muscle to a second portion of the muscle to enhance healing of the muscle.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the ligament is the anterior longitudinal ligament and further comprising: f) securing a ligament graft to the first ligament end in step (b); and g) securing the ligament graft to the second ligament end in step (c).

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: h) securing a first fastener to the ligament graft and the first ligament end in step (b); i) securing a second fastener to the ligament graft and the second ligament end in step (c); and j) securing the suture to the first and second fasteners.

7. The method of claim 5, further comprising: h) securing a second ligament graft to a first vertebral body of a first vertebra associated with the first ligament end; i) securing the second ligament graft to a second vertebral body of a second vertebra associated with the second ligament end, the second vertebra being adjacent to the first vertebra.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the suture includes a first suture utilized in steps (b), (c) and (d), a second suture utilized in step (e) and a third suture utilized to approximate the skin incision by positioning the third suture in portions of the soft tissue located on opposite sides of the incision and tightening the suture.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the ligament is comprised of a ligament of the knee and further comprising: f) securing the suture to a tibia proximate the operation region; and g) securing the suture to the femur proximate the operation region.

10. A method for securing soft tissue in an operation region between an operation site and a skin incision, the method comprising: a) performing a surgical procedure on a patient wherein soft tissue proximate the operation region and the operation site is disturbed, the operation site being associated with a patient's joint; b) securing a suture to a first bone associated with the joint; c) securing the suture to a second bone associated with the joint; d) tightening the suture to stabilize the soft tissue and the joint for enhanced healing; e) compressing additional soft tissue of the soft tissue utilizing the suture; and f) approximating the skin incision with the suture by positioning the suture in portions of the soft tissue located on opposite sides of the incision and tightening the suture.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the disturbed soft tissue includes a ligamentum flavum, step (a) resulting in a disturbed portion to the ligamentum flavum including a first ligament end and a second ligament end and further comprising: g) connecting a ligament graft to the first ligament end; and h) connecting the ligament graft to the second ligament end.

12. The method of claim 10, further comprising: g) securing a first fastener to the first bone and the suture in step (b); and h) securing a second fastener to the second bone and the suture in step (c).

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the first bone is a first vertebra, the second bone is a second vertebra and the soft tissue includes a ligamentum flavum and further comprising: g) securing a second suture to a first vertebral body of the first vertebra; and h) securing a the second suture to a second vertebral body of the second vertebra.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the second suture is secured between the first and second vertebral bodies in a crisscross pattern.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein the first bone is a tibia, the second bone is a femur and further comprising: g) securing a ligament graft to the femur; and i) securing the ligament graft to the tibia.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the suture is further secured to a patella.

17. A method for securing soft tissue in an operation region between an operation site and a skin incision, the method comprising: a) performing a surgical procedure on a patient wherein the soft tissue proximate the operation region and the operation site is disturbed, the operation site being associated with a patient's joint with first body tissue on a first side of the joint and second body tissue on a second side of the joint; b) securing a first fastener to the first body tissue; c) securing a second fastener to the second body tissue; d) positioning a tubular member between the first fastener and the second fastener; e) arranging a suture within the tubular member; f) attaching the suture to the first and second fasteners; and g) tightening the suture to maintain alignment of the first body tissue with the second body tissue.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first and second body tissues are comprised of tissue selected from the group consisting of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, skin, organs, cartilage, fascia, and blood vessels.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the first body tissue is comprised of a first vertebra and the second body tissue is comprised of a second vertebra.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: h) securing a third fastener to a first pedicle of the first vertebra; i) securing a fourth fastener to a second pedicle of the second vertebra; j) securing a second suture to the third and fourth fasteners; and k) tensioning the second suture between the third and fourth fasteners.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] A more complete understanding of the present invention, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0041] FIGS. 1A-1H illustrate multiple embodiments of fasteners and fastener assemblies;

[0042] FIGS. 2A-2G shows a plurality of embodiments of tissue alignment sleeves;

[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates the repair of the annulus of an intervertebral disc as well as stabilization of the spinal joint;

[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates a total intervertebral disc replacement implant;

[0045] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment for the anchoring of an implant;

[0046] FIG. 6 shows a further embodiment for the anchoring of an implant;

[0047] FIG. 7 illustrates anchorage of an expandable implant for directional expansion;

[0048] FIGS. 8A-8C show multiple embodiments of implant pouches;

[0049] FIG. 9 illustrates ligament repair and stabilization;

[0050] FIG. 10 shows ligament reconstruction and stabilization;

[0051] FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate ligament augmentation/reinforcement;

[0052] FIG. 12 shows a laminectomy site;

[0053] FIG. 13 illustrates stabilization of the cervical spine and head; and

[0054] FIG. 14 shows decompression and stabilization of the spinal column.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0055] The devices and methods of the present invention provide for the repair, reconstruction, augmentation, and securing of tissue and/or implants during a surgical procedure and “on the way out” after the surgical procedure has been performed but before the skin incision has been closed. Tissue at and around the operation site and tissue between the operation site and skin incision is rebuilt so that tissue-function may be at least partially restored and the operation region may be stabilized for enhanced healing.

[0056] The devices used to repair, reconstruct, augment, and/or secure tissue or implants may be any biocompatible fastener described herein or found in the prior art. Examples of fasteners, implants, and their methods of employment may be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,163,960; 5,403,348; 5,441,538; 5,464,426; 5,549,630; 5,593,425; 5,713,921; 5,718,717; 5,782,862; 5,814,072; 5,814,073; 5,845,645; 5,921,986; 5,948,002; 6,010,525; 6,045,551; 6,086,593; 6,099,531; 6,159,234; 6,368,343; 6,447,516; 6,475,230; 6,592,609; 6,635,073; and 6,719,765. Other fastener types are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/102,413; 10/228,855; 10/779,978; 10/780,444; and Ser. No. 10/797,685. The above cited patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0057] The fasteners may be, but are not limited to, degradable, biodegradable, bioerodible, bioabsorbable, mechanically expandable, hydrophilic, bendable, deformable, malleable, riveting, threaded, toggling, barded, bubbled, laminated, coated, blocking, pneumatic, one-piece, multi-component, solid, hollow, polygon-shaped, pointed, self-introducing, and combinations thereof. Also, the fasteners may include, but are not limited to, metallic material, polymeric material, ceramic material, composite material, body tissue, synthetic tissue, hydrophilic material, expandable material, compressible material, heat bondable material, and combinations thereof

[0058] The fasteners of the present invention may be linear fixation fasteners. Such fasteners secure tissue or an implant with access to only one side of the tissue or implant. Generally, the fastener is advanced through the tissue or implant, usually through a pre-made passage or without a passage when the fastener is self-introducing. Once placed through the tissue or implant, a distal portion of the fastener expands, biases outward, or changes configuration such that the distal portion prevents the fastener from being pulled back out of the tissue or implant. The proximal portion of the fastener is secured thereby anchoring the tissue or implant. Examples of linear fixation fasteners are further disclosed in the incorporated references.

[0059] The methods and devices of the present invention may be used in conjunction with any surgical procedure of the body. The repair, reconstruction, augmentation, and securing of tissue or an implant may be performed in connection with surgery of a joint, bone, muscle, ligament, tendon, cartilage, capsule, organ, skin, nerve, vessel, or other body part. For example, tissue may be repaired, reconstructed, augmented, and secured during and “on the way out” following intervertebral disc surgery, knee surgery, hip surgery, organ transplant surgery, bariatric surgery, spinal surgery, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, tendon-ligament surgery, rotator cuff surgery, capsule repair surgery, fractured bone surgery, pelvic fracture surgery, avulsion fragment surgery, hernia repair surgery, and surgery of an intrasubstance ligament tear, annulus fibrosis, fascia lata, flexor tendons, etc.

[0060] Also, tissue may be repaired after an implant has been inserted within the body. Such implant insertion procedures include, but are not limited to, partial or total knee replacement surgery, hip replacement surgery, bone fixation surgery, etc. The implant may be an organ, partial organ grafts, tissue graft material (autogenic, allogenic, xenogenic, or synthetic), collagen, a malleable implant like a sponge, mesh, bag/sac/pouch, collagen, or gelatin, or a rigid implant made of metal, polymer, composite, or ceramic. Other implants include breast implants, biodegradable plates, porcine or bovine patches, metallic fasteners, compliant bearing for medial compartment of the knee, nucleus pulposus prosthetic, stent, tissue graft, tissue scaffold, biodegradable collagen scaffold, and polymeric or other biocompatible scaffold. The scaffold may include fetal cells, stem cells, embryonal cells, enzymes, and proteins.

[0061] The present invention further provides flexible and rigid fixation of tissue. Both rigid and flexible fixation of tissue and/or an implant provides compression to enhance the healing process of the tissue. A fractured bone, for example, requires the bone to be realigned and rigidly stabilized over a period time for proper healing. Also, bones may be flexibly secured to provide flexible stabilization between two or more bones. Soft tissue, like muscles, ligaments, tendons, skin, etc., may be flexibly or rigidly fastened for proper healing. Flexible fixation and compression of tissue may function as a temporary strut to allow motion as the tissue heals. Furthermore, joints which include hard and soft tissue may require both rigid and flexible fixation to enhance healing and stabilize the range of motion of the joint. Flexible fixation and compression of tissue near a joint may provide motion in one or more desired planes. The fasteners described herein and incorporated by reference provide for both rigid and flexible fixation.

Exemplary Fasteners

[0062] The following Examples 1 through 8 which illustrate uses of the present invention are for illustrative purposes and are not limiting examples. As mentioned above, any fastener disclosed herein or incorporated by reference may be used with the exemplary methods. To simplify the disclosure of the present invention, a limited number of fastener types will be used to illustrate the exemplary methods. For example, the fasteners disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,921,986 will be used to represent any disclosed or known fastener.

[0063] As described in the above-mentioned patent, the fasteners may be placed against tissue, and a suture may be looped through the tissue with the ends of the suture positioned within the fasteners. The suture is tensioned, and the ends of the suture are secured using a knot or any other suitable means for maintaining the tension of the suture between the fasteners. The tensioning of the suture, or similar cable, pin, thread, etc., may be controlled and monitored with sensor technology, like a magnetic sensor, which may unload the pressure if necessary. Other known tensioning apparatus may also be utilized. For example, the tensioning system may be spring loaded, pneumatic, electrical, pisoelectric, and magnetic. The tensioning system may be connected with an introducer or cannula or may be part of a fastener or implant. The tensioning system may include a read-out display outside the body. The read-out display may receive tension data through radiofrequency energy, infrared energy, or other suitable energy source.

[0064] Additionally, two or more fasteners may be utilized to secure body tissue and/or an implant. When two fasteners are used, one fastener is placed against or within one tissue area and the second fastener is placed against or within another tissue area. The suture is looped through one fastener while the ends of the suture are positioned within the second fastener. The suture is tensioned and the ends fastened with a knot or fastened using a device or method disclosed herein or incorporated by reference. In this configuration, the suture includes two generally parallel legs or portions located between the fasteners. Furthermore, when two fasteners are used, a single suture may be employed leaving only one leg between the fasteners. In this configuration, each end of the suture is positioned in different fasteners. The suture may be tensioned and the ends secured. It is further contemplated that the fasteners and sutures may be inserted through a passage in the tissue or implant. For example, a passage may be drilled through tissue or implant for insertion of the fastener or suture. With the fastener in place, these passages may be packed or filled with tricalcium phosphate (TCP), calcium phosphate, a thermal polymer, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) with hydroxyaptite (HA), polylactic acid (PLA) with HA, and other suitable materials. These materials may harden within the passage and would provide additional stabilization of the tissue or implant.

[0065] FIGS. 1A-1F illustrate exemplary fasteners 30 with at least one channel 32. In an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 1A shows a generally cylindrical shaped fastener 30a. Two channels or slots 32a for receiving a suture or other similar filament extend through the fastener 30a and are generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 34 of the fastener 30a. FIG. 1B shows a generally half cylindrical shaped fastener 30b. The fastener 30b includes a generally flat surface 36 on one side and an arched surface 38 on the other side. The flat surface 36 may be placed against the tissue or implant to provide increased contact area. FIG. 1C shows a cylindrical shaped fastener 30c with a hemispheric or concave surface 40 on one side. This surface 40 may be placed against an implant or tissue, like a bone, which has a convex surface, so that the concave surface 40 of the fastener 30c and the convex surface of the tissue/implant are in contact. FIG. 1D shows a generally rectangular fastener 30d. The fastener 30d may have a thickness which minimizes protrusion of the fastener 30d from the outer surface of the tissue or implant which it is positioned against.

[0066] Although the exemplary fasteners have been described as generally longitudinal members, it is also contemplated that the fasteners can take the form of a square, oval, sphere, button, or any other suitable configuration.

[0067] FIG. 1E shows a fastener assembly 30e having a plurality of fastener members 42 positioned generally parallel to each other with connecting members 44 between them. The fastener members 42 may take the form of any shape described previously or incorporated by reference. The connecting members 44 attach the fastener members 42 to each other. The connecting members 44 may be hingedly or pivotally connected with the fastener members 42 to allow the fastener assembly 30e to flex or bend. Alternatively, the connecting members 44 may be made of a flexible material such as a suture, wire, cable, or thread, which could flex or bend. In an exemplary embodiment, the channels 32e of the fastener members 42 are positioned such that a row of channels 46 are aligned over one portion of tissue located on one side of an incision while another row of channels 48 are aligned over the other portion of the tissue located on the opposite side of the incision. Multiple sutures may be used with the fastener assembly for securing tissue or an implant.

[0068] Alternatively, the fastener members 30e may be connected with one another with a flexible strip 50. As seen in FIG. 1F, four fastener members 42 are affixed to the flexible strip 50 and are generally parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. The strip 50 may be handled and placed against tissue or an implant thereby positioning all the fastener members 42 at about the same time. In this regard, the flexible strip 50 can be made of or include graft material such as collagen, demineralized bone, etc. The flexible strip 50 may be expandable, hydrophilic, bioabsorbable, bioerodible, degradable, biodegradable, or combinations thereof. It may include a therapeutic substance such as antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, germicides, and combinations thereof.

[0069] The flexible strip 50 may also include an adhesive on one side to adhere the fastener members 42 to the strip 50 and may further include adhesive of the other side to adhere the strip 50 to tissue or implant. Such adhesives may include cyanoacrylate adhesives, hydrogel adhesives, monomer and polymer adhesives, fibrin, polysaccharide, Indermil® or any other biocompatible adhesive.

[0070] FIG. 1G shows another fastener assembly 30g of the present invention. This fastener assembly 30g is generally L-shaped or J-shaped. Like the fastener assemblies of FIGS. 1E and 1F, the fastener members 42 of FIG. 1G may be attached to one another with connecting members 44 or with a flexible strip 50. FIG. 1H shows a U-shaped fastener assembly 30h for closing a U-shaped incision in tissue, like those frequently made in the annulus. The rows of channels 46 and 48 of the fastener members 42 are arranged as previously described, with one line of channels 46 on one side of the incision and the other line of channels 48 of the other side of the incision.

[0071] The type and shape of the incision determine the size and configuration of the fastener assembly used. For example, a U-shaped incision could be closed with a U-shaped fastener assembly 30h, and an L-shaped incision could be closed with an L-shaped fastener assembly 30g. The suture or sutures used with the fastener assemblies may be tensioned and secured with a knot, or alternatively may be secured with devices and methods described herein and those incorporated by reference.

[0072] The exemplary fasteners may be utilized with one or more sutures, filaments, cables, or other similar implant. Generally, one suture may be used for the fasteners of FIGS. 1A-1D when only one fastener is employed. When two or more fasteners of FIGS. 1A-1D are used, multiple sutures may be employed. Similarly, the fasteners of FIGS. 1E-1H may use multiple sutures. The ends of sutures may be placed through the channels of the fastener members, and the sutures tensioned. Alternatively, a single suture could be used. That is, the single suture may be threaded in and out of the channels of the fastener members to secure tissue or an implant.

[0073] The exemplary fasteners and fastener assemblies of the present invention may be formed of any natural or artificial material. For example, they may be formed from material which is polymeric, metallic, composite, ceramic, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the fasteners and assemblies may be made of body tissue including bone, collagen, cartilage, ligaments, or tissue graft material like xenograft, allograft, and autograft. They may be bioabsorbable, bioerodible, degradable, biodegradable, mechanically expandable, hydrophilic, and combinations thereof. The fasteners and assemblies may be made from a porous matrix or mesh of biocompatible and bioresorbable fibers acting as a scaffold to regenerate tissue.

[0074] The fasteners and assemblies may also be made of or have a coating made of an expandable material. The material could be compressed then allowed to expand once sutured to tissue or an implant. Alternatively, the fastener and assembly material could be hydrophilic and expand when it comes in contact with liquid. Examples of such expandable materials are desiccated body tissue, foam, and expandable polymers.

[0075] Furthermore, the fasteners, fastener assemblies, and implants described herein and incorporated by reference may include therapeutic substances to promote healing. These substances could include antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, germicides, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, cell therapy substances, gene therapy substances, and combinations thereof. These therapeutic substances may be combined with the materials used to make the fasteners to produce a composite fastener or implant. Alternatively, the therapeutic substances may be impregnated or coated on the fastener or implant. Time-released therapeutic substances and drugs may also be incorporated into or coated on the surface of the fastener or implant. The therapeutic substances may also be placed in a bioabsorbable, degradable, or biodegradable polymer layer or layers.

[0076] The sutures of the present invention may be made of metallic material, non-metallic material, composite material, ceramic material, polymeric material, copolymeric material, or combinations thereof. The sutures may be degradable, biodegradable, bioabsorbable, or non-biodegradable. Examples of suture materials are polyethylene, polyester, cat gut, silk, nylon, polypropylene, linen, cotton, and copolymers of glycolic and lactic acid. In an exemplary embodiment, the sutures are flexible or bendable. They may be threadlike, monofilament, multifilament, braided, or interlaced. The sutures may have a coating of therapeutic substances or drugs. For example, the sutures may include antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides.

[0077] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate exemplary embodiments of another fastener 52. The fastener or tubular member or sleeve 52a in FIG. 2A is generally tubular shaped having a wall 54 with an inner surface 56 and an outer surface 58. The inner surface 56 defines a lumen 60 which is dimensioned and configured for receiving a suture, cable, K-wire, or similar device. In another embodiment, FIG. 2B shows a sleeve 52b with a slit 62 through the tubular wall 54. The slit 62 allows the sleeve 52b to be decreased in diameter for implantation and increased in diameter after implantation for proper alignment of the implantation site. In a further embodiment, the sleeve 52c of FIG. 2C includes two slits 62 in the tubular wall 54 thereby forming two semi-tubular members. The semi-tubular members may be placed separately at the implantation site then aligned to form a complete tubular member. In another embodiment, the tubular member is a solid member.

[0078] The tubular member may be flexible to enable the tubular member to be inserted into a nonlinear passage through the bone. The tubular member may be formed of metallic material, composite material, ceramic material, polymeric material, or combinations thereof. The tubular member may be made from a degradable, biodegradable, bioerodible, or bioabsorbable material, such as a polymer, composite, or ceramic. The tubular member may also include a therapeutic substance to form a composite tubular member, or the therapeutic substance may be coated onto the tubular member. Furthermore, therapeutic substances or graft material (autogenic, allogenic, xenogenic, or synthetic) may be packed into the tubular member.

[0079] Additionally, the outer surface 58 of the tubular member 52 may include a friction or gripping means. FIG. 2D shows a portion of the outer surface 58 of the tubular member with threads 64. In FIG. 2E, the outer surface 58 includes raised pebbles, or bumps 66. FIG. 2F illustrates raised ridges or hills 68 around the outer surface 58. In addition to a friction means on the outer surface of the tubular member, the wall of the sleeve may include openings 70 for tissue ingrowth, as shown in FIG. 2G. It is contemplated that any of the fasteners, fastener assemblies, and implants disclosed herein and incorporated by reference may also include a friction or gripping means as described above.

[0080] It is further contemplated that tissue and implants may be secured with biologic adhesive, or fasteners disclosed herein and incorporated by reference may be used with the biologic adhesive. Such adhesives may include cyanoacrylate adhesives, hydrogel adhesives, monomer and polymer adhesives, fibrin, polysaccharide, Indermil® or any other biocompatible adhesive. For example, tissue scaffolds and tissue welding fasteners disclosed herein or incorporated by reference may be used with adhesive and an energy source, like ultrasound, RF, laser, electromagnet, ultraviolet, infrared, electro-shockwave, or other suitable energy source, to activate or deactivate the adhesive.

Example 1—Intervertebral Disc Repair

[0081] As previously described, the present invention provides devices and methods for fastening body tissue and/or an implant. One example is the fastening or repair of ligamentous tissue. Ligamentous tissue is found, among other locations, within intervertebral discs of the spinal column. The spinal column is formed from a number of vertebrae which are separated from each other by intervertebral discs. The intervertebral discs stabilize and distribute force between the many vertebrae. As used herein, “spinal joint” or joint of the spine includes this intervertebral space.

[0082] Generally, intervertebral discs are made of a soft, central nucleus pulposus surrounded by a tough, woven annulus fibrosus. Herniation of a disc is a result of a weakening in the annulus. Symptomatic herniations occur when weakness in the annulus allows the nucleus pulposus to bulge or leak posteriorly toward the spinal cord and major nerve roots. One treatment of a herniated, displaced, or ruptured intervertebral disc is a discectomy. This procedure involves removal of disc materials impinging on the nerve roots or spinal cord posterior to the disc. Depending on the surgeon's preference, a varying amount of nucleus pulposus is removed from within the disc space either through the herniation site or through an incision in the annulus. In addition to a discectomy, other surgical procedures where the present invention may be used include a vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.

[0083] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of repairing an intervertebral disc 80. The disc 80 is located between a superior vertebra 82 and an inferior vertebra 84. During a discectomy, an incision 86 is made through the annulus fibrosus 88 for the removal of all or a portion of the nucleus pulposus 90. After the appropriate amount of the nucleus 90 has been removed, the incision 86 is approximated. In one embodiment showing the closing of the incision 86, a fastener 30 is positioned generally transverse to the incision 86. The fastener 30 is positioned on the outer surface of the annulus 88 with one channel 32 on one side on the incision 86 and the other channel 32 on the other side of the incision 86. A suture 100 is positioned through the portions of annulus 88 located on opposite sides of the incision 86 in a generally U-shaped, looped, or curved configuration. The ends of the suture 100 are placed within the channels 32 of the fastener 30 and tensioned to draw together the two portions of the annulus 88 on opposite sides of the incision 86. The suture 100 is secured to the fastener 30 with a knot or other means disclosed herein or incorporated by reference. Depending on the length of the incision, a plurality of fasteners and sutures may be used to fully close the incision.

[0084] One or more additional incisions 86 in the annulus 88 may be necessary for increased access to the nucleus 90. These other incisions will also need to be approximated. As seen in FIG. 1, one fastener 30 is placed on one side of the incision 86 generally parallel to the incision 86. A second fastener 30 is positioned on the other side of the incision 86. Closure of the incision 86 is accomplished by placing a suture or sutures 100 through the annulus 88 so that the annulus portions on opposite sides of the incision 86 are drawn together when the suture 100 is tensioned. The ends of the suture are secured by the fasteners 30. Depending on the length of the incision, more than two fasteners may be utilized to approximate the incision. The closure of the incision enhances the natural healing and reconstruction of the annulus wall.

[0085] While the incisions of FIG. 3 are generally linear, other incision configurations may be made for increased accessibility through the annulus. For example, the incision may be circular, L-shaped, U-shaped, C-shaped, J-shaped, etc. Different configurations and types of fasteners illustrated in FIG. 1 may be used to close these non-linear incisions. Furthermore, these incisions may be made anywhere along the annulus (posterior, anterior, or sides) or between the annulus and vertebral body.

[0086] It is further contemplated that access to the nucleus pulposus may be obtained through a vertebral body. A channel(s) or passage(s) 92 may extend from the outer side surface of the vertebral body to the adjacent nucleus. The channel may be formed with a bone drill bit and/or a tissue harvesting device as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,785 entitled Apparatus and Method for Tissue Removal, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The nucleus pulposus material may be fully or partially removed through the channel 92. Means for removing the material may include suction, scrapper, scooper, syringe, or other similar device. When no new material is required to be implanted in the region where the nucleus pulposus material was removed, the physician may close the channel 92 with graft material such as autograft material, allograft material, and/or other implantable materials disclosed herein. Alternatively, a plug/seal 93 made of metal, polymer, composite, or ceramic may be inserted into the channel 92 at either end of the channel or at both ends of the channel. The plug 93 may be removable for gaining access to the nucleus pulposus during a subsequent surgery. In this method, the annulus fibrosus is not incised, punctured, or weakened thereby reducing the healing time of the disc.

[0087] Depending on the severity of herniation or damage to the disc, nucleus pulposus replacement material or a nucleus pulposus prosthesis may be positioned between a superior vertebra and inferior vertebra. One or more incisions may be made through the annulus for access to the nucleus. The nucleus pulposus may be removed, and the replacement material or prosthesis may be inserted. Alternatively, the nucleus pulposus also remain in place with the replacement material or prosthesis positioned next to or along with the existing nucleus pulposus. Furthermore, the nucleus pulposus can be removed, conditioned or treated, and then re-implanted either alone or with a replacement material. In this regard, the temporarily removed nucleus pulposus can serve as a scaffold seeded with cells or treated with a growth factor or any other of the therapeutic agents disclosed herein. The fasteners and sutures of the present invention may be used to approximate the annulus incisions. Any number of fasteners may be used to fully close the incision.

[0088] The nucleus pulposus replacement material or prosthesis may also be positioned between the superior and inferior vertebrae through a vertebral body. As mentioned previously, a passage or channel may be made through the vertebral body extending from the outer surface to the adjacent nucleus pulposus. All, some, or none of the existing nucleus pulposus may be removed prior to insertion of the replacement material or prosthesis. In an exemplary embodiment, the replacement material is injected through the incision or channel in the vertebra and into the nucleus pulposus area. This material may be flowable for injection then once injected may become less flowable to form a gel-like material or, alternatively, may become generally solid to form a rubber-like material. Additionally, the nucleus pulposus replacement material may be flowable or injected into a balloon or bladder which may be positioned between adjacent vertebral bodies.

[0089] In another embodiment, the replacement material or prosthesis may be rubber-like or gel-like pellets having a configuration which allows them to be passed through the incision or channel. The replacement material or prosthesis may be expandable so that, once inserted, it can fill the implant area. The materials or prosthesis may include an adhesive and/or therapeutic substances, like antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides.

[0090] Surgery of the intervertebral disc may leave the spine with increased motion or shear which can cause further disc failure, facet hypertrophy, or arthritis of the facet joints. To stabilize the repaired intervertebral disc “on the way out,” the devices and methods of the present invention may be utilized. Flexible fixation of tissue at and near the operation site may allow compression of tissue and limited motion of the repaired intervertebral disc allowing ligaments, the annulus fibrosis, interspinous ligaments, and other soft tissue to properly heal. Stabilizing one vertebral body to another vertebral body under compression would still allow for some range of motion of the joint yet prevent disc degeneration.

[0091] The vertebral bodies may be stabilized anteriorly and/or posteriorly or with a hybrid approach such as an anterior-lateral or posterior-lateral approach. For example, on the anterior side of the spine, two fasteners 30 are positioned to secure the ends of a suture 100 placed through the intervertebral disc 80 and through adjacent vertebrae 82 and 84 in a curved or looped configuration. Two other fasteners 30 are positioned against or within the vertebrae 82 and 84 to hold the ends of a suture or sutures 100 placed through the disc 80 and through the adjacent vertebrae 82 and 84 in a generally straight configuration. Two more fasteners 30 are positioned against or within two vertebrae 102 and 104 located a distance from the repaired disc 80. A suture or sutures 100 are placed between these vertebrae 102 and 104 and tensioned. These fasteners and sutures provide stability and an enhanced healing environment for the intervertebral disc.

[0092] Finally, FIG. 3 illustrates another exemplary embodiment for stabilizing tissue around a repaired tissue region. One fastener 30 is positioned against or within an upper spinous process 106 adjacent the repaired disc 80, while another fastener 30 is positioned against or within a lower spinous process 108 also adjacent the repaired disc 80. A suture or sutures 100 are placed between the fasteners 30 and tensioned. This configuration and placement of fasteners and sutures limits or prevents the movement of the repaired disc.

Example 2—Intervertebral Disc Replacement

[0093] A damaged intervertebral disc may require replacement instead of just minor repair. The disc may be replaced with a prosthetic disc which may include a biocompatible material such as metal, polymer, composite, ceramic, or combinations thereof. FIG. 4 illustrates a total intervertebral disc replacement using the devices and methods of the present invention. While a disc replacement is shown and described below, it is contemplated that any skeletal region, like a joint, may be fitted with an implant, and the implant fastened and stabilized with the sutures, fasteners, and methods disclosed herein and incorporated by reference. For example, a knee replacement component may be affixed to the femur, tibia, or patella in accordance with the following described methods.

[0094] A disc replacement component may be positioned between the lower surface of a superior vertebra and the upper surface of an inferior vertebra. In this configuration, the disc replacement component takes the place of the original intervertebral disc and provides the proper spacing between the vertebrae. Such a disc component may be anchored to the surfaces of the superior and inferior vertebrae with the fasteners and sutures described herein and incorporated by reference.

[0095] Alternatively, and as shown in FIG. 4, the disc replacement implant 110 may be larger in height than the normal height of an intervertebral disc. The implant 110 may include upper 112, middle 114, and lower 116 sections. The upper and lower sections 112 and 116 are made of a biocompatible material which allows integration of the bone tissue of the vertebral bodies. This material may be polymeric, composite, metallic, ceramic or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the material may be body tissue including bone, collagen, cartilage, ligaments, or tissue graft material. The material may be bioabsorbable, bioerodiable, degradable, and/or biodegradable.

[0096] The upper and lower sections 112 and 116 of the disc replacement component 110 may include therapeutic substances, like antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides. Finally, the upper and lower sections 112 and 116 may include an expandable material. This material could be compressed then allowed to expand once implanted. Alternatively, the material could be hydrophilic and expand when it comes in contact with liquid. Examples of such expandable materials are desiccated body tissue, foam, and expandable polymers.

[0097] The middle section 114 of the disc implant 110 includes a flexible or resilient material. The middle section 114 functions as the original intervertebral disc. Materials which may be used in the middle section 114 include rubber, gel, foam, polymer, collagen, body tissue, or other suitable material. The middle section 114 may also include an expandable material. Furthermore, therapeutic substances such as antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides may be included in the middle section 114 of the disc replacement implant 110.

[0098] The disc implant 110 is positioned as follows. The superior vertebra 118 may be cut to receive the upper section 112 of the disc implant 110, while the inferior vertebra 120 may be cut to receive the lower section 116 of the implant 110. The cuts may be made from any side of the vertebral body. However, it is preferred that cutting the vertebrae 118 and 120 results in minimal disruption of the surrounding tendons, muscles, nerves, and ligaments, like the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments. The cuts may be planar and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spine. The cuts may also be multi-planar such that the pedicles and facet joints are not affected or weakened.

[0099] The upper, middle, and lower sections 112, 114, and 116 of the implant 110 combine to form a height which when the implant 110 is positioned between the cut portions of the superior and inferior vertebrae 118 and 120, is generally the same height of the normal intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebral bodies. This technique is analogous to a total knee replacement procedure. The femur, tibia, and patella are cut and prepared for implant components. Once affixed, the knee replacement components return the knee joint to its normal height, configuration, and function. The spinal implant 110 of the present invention is similar; it returns the spinal column to its normal height and function.

[0100] To secure the disc implant 110 to the cut superior and inferior vertebrae 82 and 84, the sutures, fasteners, and methods of the present invention may be used. As seen in FIG. 4, a fastener 30 is positioned within or against the superior vertebra 82, while a second fastener 30 is placed within or against the upper section 112 of the disc implant 110. A suture 100 positioned between the fasteners 30 is tensioned thereby anchoring the implant 110 to the superior vertebra 82. In addition, a graft 120, like a tissue graft, is positioned over the lower section 116 of the implant 110 and the inferior vertebra 84. Two fasteners 30 with sutures hold the graft 120 in place thereby anchoring the implant 110 to the inferior vertebra 84. To help stabilize the region around the disc implant 110, a first fastener 30 is positioned within or against a spinous process 106, while a second fastener 30 is placed within or against a different spinous process 108. A suture 100 extends between the fasteners 30 and is tensioned to limit movement of the spinous processes 106 and 108 and their relative vertebral bodies.

[0101] The disc implant 110 is further anchored to the superior and inferior vertebrae 82 and 84 with fasteners, sutures, and tubular members. Two fasteners 30 are positioned within or against the vertebrae 82 and 84. Two other fasteners 30 are placed within or against the disc implant. Sutures 100 are positioned within tubular members or sleeves 52 that extend between the fasteners. The tubular members 52 may have a thin cylindrical wall which engages the bone of the vertebrae 82 and 84 and material of the implant 110. By inserting the tubular members 52 in such an orientation, the superior and inferior vertebrae 82 and 84 and disc implant 110 are maintained in alignment.

[0102] It is also contemplated that the tubular member or sleeve may be placed within ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, or combinations thereof. For example, the tubular member may be positioned in bones, including transverse process, pedicles, facets, spinous process, posterior arch, odontoid process, posterior tubercle, lateral articular process, uncinate process, anterior tubercle, carotid tubercle, and vertebral body. The tubular member may also be positioned in ligaments, including the anterior longitudinal ligament, posterior longitudinal ligament, interspinous ligaments, supraspinous ligament, ligamentum flavum, intertransverse ligament, facet capsulary ligament, ligamentum nuchae, and ligaments of the sacrum and coccyx spine.

[0103] Following intervertebral disc replacement, the spine and surrounding tissue may be become weakened. To stabilize these regions “on the way out,” the devices and methods of the present invention may be utilized. Flexible fixation of tissue at and near the operation site may allow compression of tissue and limited motion of the prosthetic intervertebral disc allowing ligaments, the annulus fibrosis, interspinous ligaments, and other hard or soft tissue to properly heal. Stabilizing one vertebral body to another vertebral body under compression would allow for some range of motion of the joint and prevent disc degeneration and reduce the incidence of postoperative pain.

Example 3—Implant Anchoring

[0104] The devices and methods of the present invention may be further used to stabilize an implant positioned within the body. In addition to the type of implants previously mentioned, the implant may be an organ, partial organ grafts, tissue graft material (autogenic, allogenic, xenogenic, or synthetic), a malleable implant like a sponge, mesh, bag/sac/pouch, collagen, or gelatin, or a rigid implant made of metal, polymer, composite, or ceramic. Other implants include breast implants, biodegradable plates, metallic fasteners, rods, plates, screws, spacers, cages, compliant bearing implants for one or more compartments of the knee, nucleus pulposus implant, stents, meniscal implants, tissue grafts, tissue scaffolds, biodegradable collagen scaffolds, and polymeric or other biocompatible scaffolds.

[0105] Also, fasteners and sutures may be utilized to position bone replacement implants including joint replacement components such as for the knee and hip, drug delivery implants, pain pumps, spinal implants, dental implants, tissue implants, tissue patches such as porcine, bovine, or patches disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,592,625 to Cauthen, and other implants. The previously mentioned patent is hereby incorporated by reference. The implants, fasteners, and sutures may also include cells bonded to their surface. The cells may be bonded with a biocompatible adhesive, such as those describe herein, and/or may be bonded electromagnetically or with vanderwalls forces. While implant anchoring is described below in reference to intervertebral disc implants, it should be understood that the methods described herein may be used for anchoring any implant with the body.

[0106] In FIG. 5, a prosthetic disc implant 130 is positioned between two vertebrae (only one shown) 84. The annulus fibrosis 88 encircles the implant 130. A fastener 30 is placed within the posterior portion of the annulus 88. A suture 100 loops around and/or through the implant 130, and the suture 100 is secured with the fastener 30. Tensioning the suture 100 in this configuration stabilizes the implant 130 by preventing movement of the implant 130 in a posterior-anterior direction. Two other fasteners 30 are positioned against the annulus 88 generally on the sides of the annulus. A suture 100 connects these two fasteners 30 and holds the implant 130 preventing movement in a side-to-side or lateral direction. It is contemplated that the sutures and fasteners used to anchor an implant may extend through or around the implant.

[0107] FIG. 6 illustrates a disc implant 130 stabilized between a superior vertebra 82 and inferior vertebra 84. A fastener 30 is positioned within the implant 130 while another fastener 30 is placed within or against the superior vertebra 82. A suture 100 is tensioned between the fasteners 30 to hold the implant 130 to the lower surface of the superior vertebra 82. For added stability, a fastener 30 is placed within or against the inferior vertebra 84 while another fastener 30 is positioned against the implant 130. A suture 100 passes through the implant 130 and the fasteners 30, and the ends of the suture 100 are secured. Any of the methods and devices described herein or incorporated by reference may be used to fasten the ends of the suture.

[0108] As previously mentioned, the implant may be any object surgically placed within the body. The implant may be made from various biocompatible materials. Also, the implant may be expandable within the body. A hydrophilic implant may swell or expand by absorbing liquid. A resilient implant may be compressed prior to implantation, then expand once positioned within the body. It is contemplated that an expandable implant may be stabilized using any method and device disclosed herein. In addition, the expandable implant may be held with fasteners and sutures such that expansion of the implant may be directed in a preferred direction or directions. Moreover, electromagnetic pulsed energy may be used to thermally lock a suture to the implant within the body.

[0109] In FIG. 7, an implant 130 is stabilized to a vertebra 84 with multiple sutures and fasteners in a way to allow the implant to expand anteriorly. A first fastener 30 is positioned against the left side of the annulus 88, while a second fastener 30 is placed within or against the right side of the implant 130. A suture 100 extends between the first and second fasteners 30. When tensioned, the suture 100 prevents the implant 130 from expanding to the right while holding the top of the implant 130 as well. A third fastener 30 is positioned against the right side of the annulus 88. A suture 100 is looped around and/or through the implant 130 and secured with the third fastener 30 to thereby prevent the implant 130 from expanding to the left. A fifth fastener 30 is positioned against the anterior side of the annulus 88, while a sixth fastener 30 is place within or against the posterior side of the implant 130. A suture 100 positioned between the fifth and sixth fasteners 30 keeps the implant 130 from expanding in the posterior direction. Given this configuration of sutures and fasteners, the implant 130 is limited to expansion in only the anterior direction. It is contemplated that other configurations of sutures and fasteners may be used to limit the expansion of the implant to one or more directions. That is, the implant may be allowed to expand to the left, right, posterior, anterior, up, down, diagonally, or any combination thereof

[0110] The present invention also provides an enclosure 140 for stabilizing and anchoring an implant and furthermore to direct expansion of the implant in zero, one, or more desired directions. FIG. 8A illustrates an enclosure (or pouch, bag, sac, etc) 140a for an implant. The implant may be expandable or non-expandable. The pouch 140 may include one or more anchoring points 142. The anchoring points 142 may be placed on any of the corners, edges, or other surfaces so that when anchored the pouch 140 is properly secured at the desired location and orientation. A flap or lid 144 allows access into the pouch 140 for positioning of the implant. The flap 144 may be closed and sealed so the entire implant is enclosed. A pouch that completely encloses an expandable implant would allow the implant to expand omni-directionally until restricted by the pouch. The lip or flap may be resealable such that the material may be added to or removed from the pouch inside the body.

[0111] The pouch may be made from any natural or artificial material. For example, it may be formed from material which is polymeric, composite, metallic, ceramic, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the pouch may be made of or include body tissue including bone, collagen, cartilage, muscle, tendon, ligaments, or other tissue graft material. The material of the pouch may be solid, porous, bioabsorbable, bioerodible, degradable, and/or biodegradable. The pouch may be made from a porous matrix or mesh of biocompatible and/or bioabsorbable fibers or filaments acting as a scaffold to regenerate tissue. The fibers or filaments may be interlaced, braided, or knitted to form the pouch.

[0112] The pouch may include or may be filled with therapeutic substances or drugs, like antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides. The pouch may further include or be filled with a gelatin which may contain a therapeutic agent. The gelatin inside the pouch may slowly osmotically leak out into the surrounding tissue.

[0113] The pouch may also include an adhesive to bond the pouch to the implant, to bond the pouch to the implantation site, and/or bond the flap to the pouch. Such adhesives may include cyanoacrylate adhesives, hydrogel adhesives, monomer and polymer adhesives, fibrin, polysaccharide, Indermil® or any other biocompatible adhesive. A pouch filled with one or more therapeutic agents may form a drug cocktail implant. The therapeutic agents selected to be inserted within the pouch may be specifically tailored to the needs of the patient. The pouch may be filled outside or within the patient. Once placed within the body, the therapeutic agent may slowly dissolve and exit the pouch through an osmotic member to reach the surrounding tissue.

[0114] In another exemplary embodiment, FIG. 8B shows a pouch 140b with a bi-directional expansion ports 146 on the left and right sides. When an expandable implant is placed in the pouch 140 and secured at the implantation site, the implant is restricted in expansion in all directions except to the left and right. It is contemplated that the pouch 140 may be designed with one or more expansion ports 146 facing in any direction. In FIG. 8C, the pouch 140c includes a unidirectional expansion port 148. The pouch 140 allows the expandable implant to expand upward. A pouch with an upward or downward pointing expansion port may be particularly useful for prosthetic disc replacement. Once placed in the pouch and positioned between two vertebrae, an expandable implant may expand to increase the space between the vertebrae.

Example 4—Ligament Repair

[0115] Instability of joints between bones has long been the cause of disability and functional limitation in patients. Joints of the musculoskeletal system have varying degrees of intrinsic stability based on joint geometry and ligament and soft tissue investment. Ligaments are soft tissue condensations in or around the joint that reinforce and hold the joint together while also controlling and restricting various movements of the joints. When a joint becomes unstable, either through disease or traumatic injury, its soft tissue or bony structures allow for excessive motion of the joint surfaces relative to each other and in directions not normally permitted by the ligaments.

[0116] Common problems associated with excessive joint motion are malalignment problems, subluxation of the joint, and possibly joint dislocation. Typically, the more motion a joint normally demonstrates, the more inherently loose is the soft tissue surrounding the joint. A loose ligament or group of ligaments ultimately causes skeletal disorders. However, over tensioning ligaments restricts motion of the joint and can also cause musculoskeletal problems.

[0117] The present invention also provides methods of tensioning a ligament (or tendon) or group of ligaments (or tendons) during a surgical procedure and “on the way out” after the surgical procedure to prevent joint instability and reduce pain. These methods can be applied to any ligament in the body, including the ligaments of the knee (like the anterior cruciate ligament and iliotibial band), shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, ankle, hands, and feet. For illustrative purposes, the methods of the present invention are described with reference to the spine.

[0118] When an intervertebral disc becomes herniated and loses nucleus pulposus tissue, the distance between the adjacent vertebrae is reduced from the compression of the annulus and remaining nucleus pulposus. As a result, the spine ligaments may become relaxed. These ligaments may include, but are not limited to, the anterior longitudinal ligament, posterior longitudinal ligament, interspinous ligaments, supraspinous ligament, ligamentum flavum, intertransverse ligament, facet capsulary ligament, ligamentum nuchae, and ligaments of the sacrum and coccyx spine.

[0119] FIG. 9 shows an anterior longitudinal ligament 150 which has become weakened. The fasteners and sutures of the present invention may be used to tighten the anterior longitudinal ligament 150 and decrease anteroposterior translation of the adjacent intervertebral discs. It should be understood that the methods described with respect to the anterior longitudinal ligament may also be applied to tightening other ligaments of the body.

[0120] A fastener 30 is positioned against the ligament 150 adjacent the upper end of a loosened region 152 of the ligament 150. Another fastener 30 is positioned against the ligament 150 adjacent the lower end of the loosened region 152. A suture 100 is positioned through the ligament 150 and through the fasteners 30. The suture 100 is tensioned thereby tightening the loosened region 152 of the ligament 150.

[0121] In another embodiment, a fastener 30 is positioned against the ligament 150 above a stretched region 154. Another fastener 30 is placed against the ligament 150 below the stretched region 154. A suture 100 is placed through the ligament 150, adjacent vertebrae 156 and 158, and intervertebral disc 80 in a curved or looped configuration. The suture 100 is tensioned to tighten the stretched region 154.

[0122] In a further embodiment represented in FIG. 9, one fastener 30 is positioned against the ligament 150 above a missing or torn ligament region 160. Another fastener 30 is positioned against the ligament 150 below the missing region 160. The suture 100 is positioned through the superior and inferior ends of the ligament 150 at the missing or torn region 160. The suture 100 is tensioned between the fasteners 30 causing the ends of the ligament 150 to be drawn together.

[0123] To stabilize the spine while a loosened or torn ligament heals, a stabilization implant, such as a rod or plate 162, may be positioned adjacent spinous processes 164. The fasteners and sutures of the present invention may be used to secure the rod or plate 162 to the spine. A plurality of fasteners 30 is positioned against the rod or plate 162 proximate to each spinous process 164. A second plurality of fasteners 30 is placed within or against the spinous processes 164. Sutures 100 extend between the fasteners 30 and are tensioned. Once anchored, the rod or plate 162 limits movement of the spinous processes 164 relative to each other thereby limiting movement of the anterior longitudinal ligament 150.

[0124] It is contemplated that the fasteners of the present invention be placed within or adjacent any bone of the body. When used in the knee, for example, the fasteners may be placed adjacent the femur, tibia, or patella. Within the spine, an fastener may be positioned adjacent a posterior arch, a spinous process, a lateral or medial articular process, a pedicle, odontoid process, uncinate process, a posterior tubercle, carotid tubercle, or a vertebral body.

Example 5—Ligament Reconstruction

[0125] The present invention may also be used in ligament or tendon reconstruction. Ligaments are frequently damaged, detached, torn, or ruptured as the result of injury or surgery. A damaged ligament can impede proper motion of a joint and cause pain. Therefore, during or “on the way out” from a surgical procedure, a ligament may be reconstructed using a fastener, a tissue graft, and/or a tissue scaffold with or without cells.

[0126] The devices and methods of the present invention may be used with a tissue or artificial graft to tension and stabilize the damaged ligament. Any ligament of the body may be repaired using the present invention, including the ligaments of the spine, shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, ankle, feet, and hands. The present invention is described in reference to ligaments of the spine including the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, interspinous ligaments, supraspinous ligaments, superior costotransverse ligaments, ligamentum flavum, facet capsulary ligament, intertransverse ligament, ligamentum nuchae, and ligaments of the sacrum and coccyx spine.

[0127] In an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 10 shows a damaged anterior longitudinal ligament 150. A ligament graft 170 is positioned adjacent the damaged region 172. A first fastener 30 is placed against the inferior end of the ligament graft 170, while a second fastener 30 is positioned within or against a vertebral body 174. A suture 100 extends through the graft 170, ligament 150, and vertebra 174. The suture 100 is tensioned, and the ends of the suture 100 are secured. Similarly, two fasteners and a suture are positioned at the superior end of the ligament graft. To further anchor the ligament graft 170 to the anterior longitudinal ligament 150, one fastener 30 is positioned against the graft 170 on one side of the damaged region 172, and another fastener 30 is placed against the graft 170 on the other side of the damaged region 172. A suture 100 is placed through the graft 170, ligament 150, adjacent vertebrae 82 and 84, and intervertebral disc 80 in a generally curved, looped, or C configuration. The suture 100 is tensioned, and the ends of the suture 100 secured. It is also contemplated that the curved or looped suture may be placed through multiple intervertebral discs and vertebrae.

[0128] In another embodiment, FIG. 10 shows a graft 170 positioned between two adjacent vertebrae 82 and 84. The ligament or bone graft 170 is positioned adjacent the damaged region 172 of the anterior longitudinal ligament 150. The graft 170 may be attached using any of the devices and methods described herein and incorporated by reference. In an exemplary embodiment, two fasteners 30 are placed at the superior and inferior ends of the graft 170. Two other fasteners (not shown) are positioned within or against each vertebra 82 and 84. Sutures are positioned between the fasteners and tensioned.

[0129] To stabilize the longitudinal ligament 150 while the damaged region 172 heals, sutures and fasteners may be placed on the posterior side of the spine for stabilization. One fastener 30 is placed within or against a spinous process 164, while another fastener 30 is positioned within or against a pedicle or bone of the facet joint 176. A suture 100 extends between the fasteners 30 thereby limiting movement of the spine. FIG. 10 shows an additional stabilization device between an upper and lower spinous process. In this configuration, the suture and fasteners provide additional restriction to the movement of the spine.

[0130] The ligament or bone graft may be obtained from a variety of sources and/or made from various materials. In an exemplary embodiment, the ligament graft is made of collagen. The graft could also include autograft, allograft, or xenograft material. The graft may be a tendon graft, bone-tendon-bone graft, or a meniscus graft. Other material which may be used in the formation of the graft is polymer, carbon fiber, PEEK, PTFE, a biodegradable material, elastic or flexible material, Gore-Tex®, or woven fiber. The ligament graft may include therapeutic substances. These include antibiotics, hydroxypatite, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, antibiotics, analgesic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, bone morphogenetic protein, demineralized bone matrix, collagen, growth factors, autogenetic bone marrow, progenitor cells, calcium sulfate, immo suppressants, fibrin, osteoinductive materials, apatite compositions, fetal cells, stem cells, enzymes, proteins, hormones, and germicides.

[0131] Use of grafts or patches to repair, reconstruct, and augment tissue, like a ligament, may include patches such as TissueMend® patches, Restore® patches, or similar products.

Example 6—Ligament Augmentation

[0132] In addition to ligament repair and reconstruction, the devices and methods of the present invention may be used for ligament or tendon augmentation. Ligament augmentation reinforces or supplements natural ligaments. A ligament may be augmented or reinforced after it has been repaired or reconstructed. Also, a non-repaired ligament may be augmented prophylactically. In this case, the augmentation may be used to increase the load-bearing capacity of the ligament or tendon. Additionally, or alternatively, the augmentation may be used to prevent a potential injury to a ligament or tendon. For example, an athlete may undergo minimally invasive surgery to reinforce a ligament or tendon so as to prevent the ligament or tendon from being injured later in the athlete's career. Many talented athletes' careers are cut short because of any injury to a body joint, like the knee, shoulder, ankle, spine, wrist, or hip. If an athlete desired to prevent or at least reduce the chance of sustaining a career ending injury, he/she could have surgery to augment or “fail-safe” a joint and its ligaments and tendons even if there are no other risk factors other than the occupation. Of course, other risk factors, such as genetic predisposition, could be considered, if desired.

[0133] The devices and techniques described herein relate to augmenting any ligament or tendon of the body including ligaments of the knee, shoulder, spine, hand, foot, hip, and elbow. For illustrative purposes only, ligament augmentation is described with reference to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. It should be understood that the description of augmentation to the knee is not limiting to other ligaments and tendons.

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment, fasteners and a suture (or similar device like a cable, band, flexible moment arm, pin, rod, or K-wire) may be used to augment a ligament. Referring to FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C, a fastener 30 may be positioned near one end of the ligament 180, while another fastener 30 may be placed near the opposite end of the ligament 180. The suture or cable 100 may be placed between the fasteners 30 and may be generally parallel with the ligament 180. The suture 100 may be tensioned, and the ends of the suture 100 secured with the fasteners 30. It is contemplated that multiple fasteners and multiple sutures may be utilized to augment the ligament. For example, a suture 100 may be placed at an angle to the ligament 180 with the ends of the suture 100 secured with fasteners 30. Having multiple sutures at different angles relative to each other and/or the ligament may provide multiple-direction augmentation.

[0135] In a further exemplary embodiment, a tissue graft or scaffold (reinforcement means) 182 may be used to augment the ligament or tendon 180. The graft or scaffold 182 may be configured and include materials as previously described herein. The graft or scaffold 182 may be positioned generally parallel to the ligament 180 requiring augmentation. The ends of the graft 182 may be anchored to bone, ligament, or other tissue using the devices and methods of the present invention. For example, one fastener may be positioned in or against the graft while another fastener may be placed in or against adjacent tissue. A suture may be tensioned between the fasteners, and the ends of the suture secured with the fasteners. Also, a fastener 30 may be positioned against the graft or adjacent tissue, and a suture 100 may be wrapped around the adjacent tissue and graft one or multiple times to form a band or latching. The suture 100 may be tensioned and secured with the fastener 30. It is contemplated that multiple grafts and/or scaffolds may be used to augment the ligament or tendon. For example, grafts or scaffolds may be at different angles to the ligament to provide augmentation in multiple directions.

[0136] Furthermore, it is contemplated that the graft or scaffold 182 used to augment the ligament or tendon may be secured to tissue using a band-like device 184. The band 184 may be wrapped around the graft or scaffold 182 and adjacent tissue, like a bone 186. The band 184 may be a biocompatible elastic band, a tissue graft, a polymeric or metallic tie (like a wire tie), or other suitable banding apparatus.

[0137] The suture and/or graft (reinforcement means) 182 used to augment the ligament or tendon may be placed parallel or diagonal to the ligament or tendon. Also, the suture and/or graft may be helically or spirally wrapped around the ligament or tendon. The ligament or tendon may be helically or spirally wrapped around the suture or graft. The reinforcement means may be positioned within or interwoven, braided, or weaved into the ligament or tendon.

[0138] As previously described, an athlete may desire to undergo elective surgery to “fail safe” a joint and/or ligaments. A football player, for example, who is at high risk for a knee injury may choose to augment or reinforce the anterior cruciate ligament 250, posterior cruciate ligament 252, tibial collateral ligament 254, fibular collateral ligament 256, posterior meniscofemoral ligament 258, and/or transverse ligament 260. The suture, cable, and/or graft used to reinforce the ligament may be tensioned and positioned such that the natural ligament is exclusively used during normal athletic activities. However, when the joint (knee) is extended or dislocated beyond its normal range of motion, the reinforcement means (suture, cable, graft, flexible rod, etc.) engages to stop the extension or dislocation thereby preventing injury to the joint. The engagement of the reinforcement means may provide a sudden stopping action when the joint or ligament is about to reach or has reached an abnormal position. Alternatively or additionally, the engagement of the reinforcement means may provide a gradual stopped action (e.g. stretching/elastic) as the joint/ligament approaches its maximum normal range.

[0139] The reinforcement means 182 may be implanted between bones, ligaments, and/or tendons. When the ACL is to be augmented or reinforced, the reinforcement means may extend between the femur 262, tibia 264, and/or fibula 265, may extend from the superior end of the ligament to the tibia and/or fibula, may extend from the inferior end of the ligament to the femur, and/or may extend between the superior and inferior ends of the ligament itself. The reinforcement means may be positioned parallel or at an angle to the ligament. The means may be a tubular sheath 266 that encapsulates the ligament, like a sheath on a wire or a braided sheath 268 on a fuel or hydraulic line. The sheath (reinforcement means) would function as previously described, i.e. provide gradual and/or sudden stopping action to the joint/ligament.

[0140] It is contemplated that augmentation or reinforcement of ligaments and tendons of a joint for athletes or other patients be performed using minimally invasive techniques. In the case of an athlete undergoing reinforcement or “fail safe” surgery, the surgeon must produce a minimum amount of dislocation and resection of soft tissue in order to minimize recovery time. Furthermore, physicians could take into consideration the natural growing rate of the athlete/patient. As the athlete grows and/or gains size and weight from physical workouts, the length, strength, and size of joints/ligaments/tendons may change. To account for this, the reinforcement means may be modifiable using a small portal in soft tissue to access the means in the joint. Once accessed, an extension 270 may be added to the reinforcement means. Alternatively, the reinforcement means may include three portions. The two end portions 272 may be fastened in tissue while the middle portion 274 resides between the end portions. The middle portion 274 may be disconnected from the end portions 272 and replaced with a different middle portion 274 having a different length, strength, and/or size. In this configuration, the end portions are not removed from the tissue therefore there is no healing time required for the end portions to secure to tissue.

Example 7—Laminectomy

[0141] A laminectomy is a surgical procedure which is designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root that is being caused by a slipped or herniated disk in the lumbar spine. A laminectomy removes a portion of bone over the nerve root or disc material from under the nerve root to give the nerve root more space and a better healing environment. Also, a laminectomy is effective to decrease pain and improve function for a patient with lumbar spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis is caused by degenerative changes that result in enlargement of the facet joints. The enlarged joints place pressure on the nerves. During a laminectomy, there is much muscle stripping and ligament tearing. The back muscles or erector spinae are dissected off the lamina on both sides and at multiple levels. The facet joints, directly over the nerve roots, are cut to give the nerve roots space. Usually, once the nerve roots are provided with more room, the operation is completed by closing the skin incision. The methods and devices of the present invention may be used to repair, reconstruct, augment, and stabilize tissue or an implant “on the way out” of the pathway created in the soft tissue to access the nerve roots. Muscle may be reattached to muscle; ligaments may be repaired or reconstructed; tissue grafts may be implanted; bones may be stabilized; and implants may be inserted.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 12, a laminectomy site is illustrated. A portion of the ligamentum flavum 190 is dissected and removed between two spinous processes 106 and 108. The distal end of the lamina 192 is removed from the superior spinous process 106. The laminectomy site and surrounding tissue is repaired, reconstructed, or augmented to compress and stabilize the tissue for enhanced healing. Fasteners 30 and sutures or cables 100 are placed in the adjacent vertebral bodies 82 and 84 to provide flexible fixation of the spinal joint and limit the range of motion of the spine. A fastener 30 is positioned on the posterior side of the ligamentum flavum 190 above the laminectomy site. Another fastener 30 is positioned on the posterior side of ligamentum flavum 190 below the operation site. A suture 100 is placed between the fasteners 30. The suture 100 is tensioned and secured with the fasteners 30 to provide flexible fixation of the ligamentum flavum 190.

[0143] Another fixation device is placed between the inferior and superior spinous processes. A fastener 30 may be positioned against one of the spinous processes 164, and a suture 100 may be wrapped between two spinous processes 164. The suture 100 may be tensioned, and the ends of the suture 100 may be secured with the fastener 30. This configuration provides further flexible stabilization of the spinal column near the laminectomy site. Finally, a ligament graft or scaffold 182 may be positioned along the ligamentum flavum 190 over the laminectomy site. The graft 182 may reconnect and stabilize the ligamentum flavum 190. It should be understood that additional fasteners may be used to compress and stabilize surrounding tissue.

Example 8—Joint Stabilization

[0144] Following surgery within the body, especially surgery of a joint, the soft tissue around and near the joint may become weakened, and the range of motion of the joint usually increases thereby allowing excessive tissue laxity. Also, instability of a joint may be caused by structural changes within the joint as a result of trauma, degeneration, aging, disease, surgery, or a combinations thereof. An unstable joint may be fused to form a permanent or rigid internal fixation of all or part of the joint. Alternatively, joints may be stabilized with the devices and methods of the present invention, without fusion. In an exemplary embodiment, tissue may be repaired, reconstructed, augmented, and stabilized during and “on the way out” of a surgical procedure such as those surgical procedures described herein. Compressing and stabilizing the tissue around a joint enhances tissue healing. Using flexible fixation, the tissue may be secured but still allow for some range of motion of the joint. Where flexible fixation is not desired, the devices and methods of the present invention may be used for rigid fixation, such as for bones.

[0145] As a further example, fasteners and sutures could be used to stabilize the knee joint. The sutures could be positioned between at least two of the femur, tibia, patella, and adjacent ligaments to stabilize the knee without significantly restricting the knee's normal range of motion. Moreover, the devices and methods may be used to stabilize any joint of the body, including the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and joints of the hands and feet. Additionally, the present invention may be used with a temporal mandibular joint, SI joint, facet joint, temporomandibular joint, and sacroiliac joint.

[0146] For illustrative purposes, the present invention is described in greater detail with respect to the spine. FIG. 13 shows a posterior view of the head and cervical spine with three vertebrae: C1 (Atlas), C2 (Axis), and C3. The cervical spine and head are stabilized using diagonally positioned sutures. Fasteners 30 are positioned within or against the left and right side of the occipital bone 200 of the head. Two other fasteners 30 are placed within or against the left and right sides of the posterior arch of the C1 vertebra 202. A suture 100 extends between the left fasteners 30, while another suture 100 extends between the right fasteners 30. When tensioned, the sutures 100 limit movement of the head relative to the cervical spine.

[0147] FIG. 13 also shows tissue graft 204, such as a ligament and/or bone graft, positioned between a vertebra 206 and the head 208. The grafts 204 may be attached using any of the devices and methods described herein and incorporated by reference. In an exemplary embodiment, fasteners 30 are placed at the superior and inferior ends of the graft. Other fasteners (not shown) are positioned within or adjacent the bone. Sutures extend between the fasteners and are tensioned.

[0148] Further stabilization of the cervical spine may be obtained by placing sutures and fasteners lower in the cervical spine. In an exemplary embodiment, a crisscross pattern of sutures is placed between two adjacent vertebrae. The upper fasteners 30 may be placed within or against the superior vertebra 82, while the lower fasteners 30 may be positioned within or against the inferior vertebra 84. Sutures 100 extend between the fasteners, and when tensioned, the sutures 100 stabilize the vertebrae 82 and 84 from movement between one another.

[0149] In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 14, a vertebra 214 has been decompressed using fasteners and a suture. A first fastener 30 is placed within or adjacent an upper vertebra 212, and a second fastener 30 is positioned within or adjacent a lower vertebra 216. A suture 100 is positioned through the left side of the vertebrae 212, 214, and 216 in a curved, looped, or C configuration. The suture 100 is tensioned, and the ends of the suture 100 secured. By tensioning the suture 100, the right side of the middle vertebra 214 becomes decompressed.

[0150] In another exemplary embodiment, multiple vertebrae may be decompressed by positioning fasteners 30 on two vertebrae 210 and 218 which are separated by two or more vertebrae. A tubular member or sleeve 52 is positioned between the fasteners 30 and through the vertebrae in between. A suture 100 is placed within the sleeve 52, tensioned, and secured with the fasteners 30. Moreover, the fasteners 30 may be placed on any part/portion of the vertebrae 210 and 218, as described previously, so when the suture is tensioned, one or more vertebrae are decompressed, forming a decompressed region 224.

[0151] As further seen in FIG. 14, the spine has been stabilized using the pedicles of the spine. A fastener 30 is placed within or adjacent a pedicle 220. A second fastener 30 is placed within or adjacent another pedicle 222. A suture 100 extends between the fasteners 30 either through the pedicles or outside the pedicles. The suture 100 is tensioned and the ends of the suture secured.

[0152] While FIG. 14 illustrated a suture positioned between two pedicles, it is contemplated that the suture may be affixed to any portion/part of the vertebrae. For example, a suture may be tensioned between any one or more of the following: transverse process, pedicles, facets, spinous process, posterior arch, odontoid process, posterior tubercle, lateral articular process, uncinate process, anterior tubercle, carotid tubercle, and vertebral body.

[0153] The suture, or similar device like a cable, band, flexible moment arm, pin, rod, or K-wire, is made of a material having sufficient strength and fatigue characteristics. The suture may be biodegradable and/or flexible. It may include metallic material, ceramic material, polymeric material, composite material, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the suture is formed of fiber material like carbon or polyamide fibers. Sutures may also be formed from Mersilene®, polypropylene braided or collagen strips, allograft or xenograft strips, braided mesh, a polymer, PTFE, or GoreTex®. The suture may be made of or include an elastic, flexible material which stabilizes the skeletal and ligamentous system but allows some movement of the joints. Also, the suture may be barbed or could be a threaded wiring device.

[0154] The disclosed methods for spine stabilization described thus far included positioning fasteners against bone or an implant. However, the present invention also contemplates stabilizing a joint of the body by affixing a suture between ligaments, tendons, bones, cartilage, tissue grafts or combinations thereof. For example, a suture may be positioned between a vertebra and a longitudinal ligament, between a spinous process and the supraspinous ligament, or between a facet and a facet capsulary ligament. Any combination of attachment points is contemplated to stabilize the joint.

[0155] Furthermore, any of the methods described herein could utilize a plurality of sutures and more than two fasteners. The use of multiple sutures can vary the tension or resistance between the fasteners securing the suture, thereby providing various levels of stability. The use of multiple fasteners, preferably spaced apart and positioned adjacent the region of the joint to be stabilized, could provide various angles of stabilization.

[0156] It is further contemplated that by using multiple sutures and fasteners at different locations of the spine, ligaments and bones of the spine may be selectively tightened or stabilized to provide a customized environment for spine healing. For example, the sutures may be tightened sequentially between the fasteners, or the entire construct could be tightened down together.

RELATED TECHNIQUES

[0157] It is contemplated that the devices and methods of the present invention be applied using minimally invasive incisions and techniques to preserve muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, nerves, and blood vessels. A small incision(s) may be made adjacent the damaged tissue area to be repaired, and a tube, delivery catheter, sheath, cannula, or expandable cannula may be used to perform the methods of the present invention. U.S. Pat. No. 5,320,611 entitled, Expandable Cannula Having Longitudinal Wire and Method of Use, discloses cannulas for surgical and medical use expandable along their entire lengths. The cannulas are inserted through tissue when in an unexpanded condition and with a small diameter. The cannulas are then expanded radially outwardly to give a full-size instrument passage. Expansion of the cannulas occurs against the viscoelastic resistance of the surrounding tissue. The expandable cannulas do not require a full depth incision, or at most require only a needle-size entrance opening.

[0158] Also, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,674,240; 5,961,499; and 6,338,730 disclose cannulas for surgical and medical use expandable along their entire lengths. The cannula has a pointed end portion and includes wires having cores which are enclosed by jackets. The jackets are integrally formed as one piece with a sheath of the cannula. The cannula may be expanded by inserting members or by fluid pressure. The cannula is advantageously utilized to expand a vessel, such as a blood vessel. An expandable chamber may be provided at the distal end of the cannula. The above mentioned patents are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0159] In addition to using a cannula with the methods of the present invention, an introducer may be utilized to position fasteners at a specific location within the body. U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,002 entitled, Apparatus and Method for Use in Positioning a Suture Anchor, discloses devices for controlling the placement depth of a fastener. Also, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/102,413 discloses methods of securing body tissue with a robotic mechanism. The above-mentioned patent and application are hereby incorporated by reference. Another introducer or cannula which may be used with the present invention is the VersaStep® System by Tyco® Healthcare.

[0160] The present invention may also be utilized with minimally invasive surgery techniques disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/191,751 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,702,821 and 6,770,078. These patent documents disclose, inter alia, apparatus and methods for minimally invasive joint replacement. The femoral, tibial, and/or patellar components of a knee replacement may be fastened or locked to each other and to adjacent tissue using fasteners disclosed herein and incorporated by reference. Furthermore, the methods and devices of the present invention may be utilized for repairing, reconstructing, augmenting, and securing tissue or implants during and “on the way out” of a knee replacement procedure. For example, the anterior cruciate ligament and other ligaments may be repaired or reconstructed; quadriceps mechanisms and other muscles may be repaired. The patent documents mentioned above are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0161] Moreover, the devices and methods of the present invention may by used to approximate a skin incision where there may be undue tension on the skin. Fasteners may be placed on opposite sides of the incision, and a suture or cable may be placed between the fasteners. When the suture is tensioned, the skin may be pulled together and held until the skin tissue relaxes. Then, the fasteners may be unlocked, and the suture may be tensioned again to further approximate the skin incision. The locking and unlocking of the fasteners along with the tensioning of the suture may be repeated until the incision is fully closed.

[0162] Furthermore, it is contemplated that the present invention may be used with bariatric surgery, colorectal surgery, plastic surgery, gastroesophageal reflex disease (GERD) surgery, or for repairing hernias. A band, mesh, or cage of synthetic material or body tissue may be placed around an intestine or other tubular body member. The band may seal the intestine. This method may be performed over a balloon or bladder so that anastomosis is maintained. The inner diameter of the tubular body part is maintained by the balloon. The outer diameter of the body part is then closed or wrapped with a band, mesh, or patch. The inner diameter of the tubular body member may be narrowed or restricted by the band. The band may be secured to the tubular body part or surrounding tissue with the devices and methods described herein and incorporated by reference.

[0163] In addition, intramedullary fracture fixation and comminuted fracture fixation may be achieved with the devices and methods of the present invention. For example, a plate or rod may be positioned within or against the fractured bone. A fastener may be driven across the bone and locked onto the plate, rod, or another fastener.

[0164] It is further contemplated that the present invention may be used in conjunction with the devices and methods disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,329,846 entitled, Tissue Press and System, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,269,785 entitled, Apparatus and Method for Tissue Removal. For example, an implant secured within the body using the present invention may include tissue harvested, configured, and implanted as described in the patents. The above-mentioned patents are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0165] Additionally, it is contemplated that the devices and methods of the present invention may be used with heat bondable materials as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,425 entitled, Surgical Devices Assembled Using Heat Bondable Materials. For example, the fasteners of the present invention may include heat bondable material. The material may be deformed to secure tissue or hold a suture or cable. The fasteners made of heat bondable material may be mechanically crimped, plastically crimped, or may be welded to a suture or cable with RF (Bovie devices), laser, ultrasound, electromagnet, ultraviolet, infrared, electro-shockwave, or other known energy. The welding may be performed in an aqueous, dry, or moist environment. The welding device may be disposable, sterilizable, single-use, and/or battery-operated. The above-mentioned patent is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0166] Furthermore, it is contemplated that the methods of the present invention may be performed under indirect visualization, such as endoscopic guidance, computer assisted navigation, magnetic resonance imaging, CT scan, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, X-ray, or other suitable visualization technique. The implants, fasteners, fastener assemblies, and sutures of the present invention may include a radiopaque material for enhancing indirect visualization. The use of these visualization means along with minimally invasive surgery techniques permits physicians to accurately and rapidly repair, reconstruct, augment, and secure tissue or an implant within the body. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,329,924; 5,349,956; and 5,542,423 disclose apparatus and methods for use in medical imaging. Also, the present invention may be performed using robotics, such as haptic arms or similar apparatus. The above-mentioned patents are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0167] Moreover, the fasteners and methods of the present invention may be used for the repair and reconstruction of a tubular pathway like a blood vessel, intestine, urinary tract, esophagus, or other similar body parts. For example, a blood vessel may be intentionally severed during a surgical operation, or the blood vessel may be damaged or torn as a result of an injury. Flexible fixation of the vessel would permit the vessel to function properly and also compress and stabilize the vessel for enhanced healing. To facilitate the repair or reconstruction of a body lumen, a balloon may be inserted into the lumen and expanded so the damaged, severed, or torn portion of the vessel is positioned against the outer surface of the inflated balloon. In this configuration, the fasteners and methods described and incorporated herein may be used to approximate the damaged portion of the vessel.

[0168] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described herein above. In addition, unless mention was made above to the contrary, it should be noted that all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. A variety of modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.