US20080086115A1 - Intercostal spacer device and method for use in correcting a spinal deformity - Google Patents

Abstract

An intercostal spacer device for placement between two adjacent ribs, includes a spacer member and at least one pair of arms that extend from a first end of the spacer member and at least one pair of arms that extend from a second end of the spacer member. The intercostal spacer device may also include a flexible, fillable container for containing an injectable material that is compressible following implantation. The container is impermeable to the material it will be filled with. A structural mesh, for example, made of PET fabric and interwoven shape-memory alloy wire, provides structure for and containment of the container, as well as shape control of the intercostal spacer device. The material can be injected into the container through a conduit. The intercostal spacer device is sized and configured to allow for placement into the intercostal space to produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/PATENTS
• This application contains subject matter which is related to the subject matter of the following applications, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:
• “Surgical Spacer,” by Lange et al., U.S. Ser. No. 11/438,940, filed May 23, 2006;
• “Surgical Spacer with Shape Control,” by Lange et al., U.S. Ser. No. 11/438,891, filed May 23, 2006; and
• “Implants and Methods for Inter-Transverse Process Dynamic Stabilization of a Spinal Segment,” by Bruneau et al., U.S. Ser. No. 11/104,267, filed Apr. 12, 2005.
TECHNICAL FIELD
• The present invention relates generally to orthopaedic implants used for the correction of spinal deformities, and more specifically, but not exclusively, concerns apparatuses placed within the intercostal space of two ribs to allow for deformity correction or healing of the spinal column.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• To secure and treat spinal deformities, including scoliosis, it is a generally accepted practice to place implants adjacent to or into the vertebrae to produce loads for correcting an abnormal curvature of the spine and to maintain appropriate vertebral support for the healing of the implanted bone fusion material.
• Typical spinal implant systems are implanted through a posterior approach to the spinal column and utilize a rod as the support and stabilizing element connected to a series of two or more bone fasteners that have been inserted into two or more vertebrae. The connections between these components are then secured, thereby fixing a supporting construct to multiple levels in the spinal column.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• Advancement of the state of orthopaedic implants and the treatment of pediatric and adolescent scoliosis is believed to be desirable. The present invention satisfies the need for improvements to the surgical treatment by providing a more mechanically efficient intercostal spacer device for implantation into multiple intercostal spaces of a patient's rib cage. The intercostal spacer device is a one piece construct fabricated from a biocompatible material. Alternatively, the intercostal spacer device may be a multiple piece construct that includes a flexible container that is fillable in situ to a desired amount, with a structure for at least part of the container providing shape control of the intercostal spacer device. An optional conduit coupled to the container allows for filling of the container, for example, by injecting a material into the container.
• The present invention provides in one aspect, an intercostal spacer device. The intercostal spacer device includes a spacer member that has a superior end and an inferior end. Extending from both the superior end and inferior end are at least one pair of arms with a channel defined between each pair of arms. The spacer member is sized and configured to enable placement of the spacer member within an intercostal space, with each channel being sized to receive a rib allowing the intercostal spacer device to resist dislodgement from the ribs and produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity.
• The present invention provides in another aspect, an intercostal spacer device that includes a flexible container for receiving an injectable material that is compressible following implantation between two adjacent ribs, wherein the flexible container is substantially impermeable to the injectable material. The intercostal spacer device further includes a conduit coupled to the flexible container for accepting the injectable material, and a structure for at least part of the flexible container when containing the material, wherein the structure has a shape to fit between two adjacent ribs.
• Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of controlling at least part of the shape of the intercostal spacer device. The intercostal spacer device has a flexible container for containing an injectable material that is compressible following implantation, wherein the container is substantially impermeable to the injectable material. The intercostal spacer device further includes a structure for at least part of the flexible container. The method provides for creating the structure with at least one material for controlling at least part of the shape of the intercostal spacer device following implantation into the intercostal space.
• The present invention provides in yet another aspect, an intercostal spacer system. The intercostal spacer system includes a plurality of intercostal spacer devices, with each of the intercostal spacer devices having a spacer member that has a superior end and an inferior end. Extending from both the superior end and inferior end are at least one pair of arms with a channel being defined between each pair of arms. The spacer member is sized and configured to enable placement of the member within an intercostal space, with each channel being sized to receive a rib, allowing the intercostal spacer device to resist dislodgement from the ribs when implanted. Following implantation, the plurality of intercostal spacer devices cooperate to dynamically produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity within a patient.
• The present invention provides another aspect, a method of correcting a spinal deformity. The method includes the step of providing at least one intercostal spacer device, the intercostal spacer device includes a spacer member having first and second ends with at least one pair of arms extending from each of the first and second ends. The spacer member, the first pair of arms extending from the first end and the second pair of arms extending from the second end of the at least one intercostal spacer are sized for placement between a first rib and an adjacent second rib of a patient. The method further includes the positioning of the at least one intercostal spacer device into the intercostal space between the two adjacent ribs of the patient with the first rib disposed between the first pair of arms and the adjacent second rib disposed between the second pair of arms and thus securing the intercostal spacer device within the intercostal space and producing a force to correct the spinal deformity of the patient.
• Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of correcting a spinal deformity. The method includes providing an intercostal spacer device, the intercostal spacer devices includes a flexible container for containing an injectable material that is compressible following implantation, wherein the flexible container is substantially impermeable to the injectable material. The intercostal spacer device further includes a conduit coupled to the flexible container for accepting the injectable material, and a structure for at least part of the flexible container when containing the material, wherein the structure has a shape of the intercostal spacer device that is sized and configured to fit between adjacent ribs in a patient. The method further includes implanting the intercostal spacer device between two adjacent ribs. The injectable material is then injected into the flexible container through the conduit such that the shape of the structure is achieved, thus producing a force to correct the spinal deformity of the patient.
• Further, additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
• FIG. 1A is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device shown disposed between the cross-section of two adjacent ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 1B is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device with two single connectors shown disposed between the cross-section of two adjacent ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 1C is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device shown disposed between the cross-section of two adjacent ribs, with a single connector surrounding the entire intercostal spacer device, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 1D is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device, shown disposed between the cross-section of two adjacent ribs, with a single connector utilizing an alternative securing configuration, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 1E is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device shown disposed between the cross-section of two adjacent ribs, with two alternative single connectors inserted through two bore holes, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 1F is a perspective view of the intercostal spacer device embodiment ofFIG. 1E with the two alternative single connectors extracted from the two bore holes, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a posterior elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer system implanted in the posterior aspect of the rib cage, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 4A is a posterior elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer system shown disposed between three ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 4B is a cross-section side elevational view of the intercostal spacer device system ofFIG. 4A taken alongline4B-4B shown disposed between the cross-section of four adjacent ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 4C is a posterior perspective view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer system shown disposed between four adjacent ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 6 is a posterior elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer system implanted in the posterior aspect of the rib cage, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 7 is a posterior elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device system shown disposed between four adjacent ribs, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 8 is a perspective partial cut-away view of one embodiment of an unfilled intercostal spacer device with the container in the structure, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 9 is a posterior elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device with an integrated container and structure, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
• FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional elevational view of one embodiment of an intercostal spacer device with an external container, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; and
• FIG. 11 depicts another embodiment of an intercostal spacer device with an integrated container and structure, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
• As depicted inFIG. 1A, the general arrangement of anintercostal spacer device10, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, includes aspacer member11 comprising asuperior end12 and aninferior end13 with a central axis (not shown) extending betweensuperior end12 andinferior end13. Extending in an upward direction fromsuperior end12 is preferably one pair ofarms14 that may include ananterior arm15 and aposterior arm16. Further, extending in a downward direction frominferior end13 is preferably one pair ofarms17 that may include ananterior arm18 and aposterior arm19. Each pair ofarms14,17 are integral tospacer member11 and are sized to resist dislodgement ofintercostal spacer device10 following placement within the intercostal space. Further, each pair ofarms14,17 are centered about the central axis ofspacer member11 resulting in a roughly H-shaped overall structure. Anupper channel20 is typically defined by aseat22,anterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Additionally, alower channel21 is defined by aseat23,anterior arm18 andposterior arm19.Anterior arm15 andposterior arm16 are disposed relatively parallel to each other and project in an upward manner fromseat22.Anterior arm18 andposterior arm19 project in a downward manner fromseat23 and are substantially parallel to each other. Each pair ofarms14,17, together withseats22,23 formU-shaped channels20,21 respectively, which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30. When in use in the rib cage,intercostal spacer device10 is placed within an intercostal space. Preferably,intercostal spacer device10 is maneuvered in a manner allowing twoadjacent ribs30 to be positioned withinchannels20,21, causing the anterior aspect of the twoadjacent ribs30 to contactanterior arms15,18 and the posterior aspect of the twoadjacent ribs30 to contactposterior arms16,19.
• With reference toFIGS. 1B,1C,1D,1E and1F,intercostal spacer device10 includes aspacer member11 comprising asuperior end12 and aninferior end13. Extending in an upward direction fromsuperior end12 is preferably one pair ofarms14 that may include ananterior arm15 and aposterior arm16. Further, extending in a downward direction frominferior end13 is preferably one pair ofarms17 that may include ananterior arm18 and aposterior arm19. Anupper channel20 is typically defined by aseat22,anterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Additionally, alower channel21 is defined by aseat23,anterior arm18 andposterior arm19. Each pair ofarms14,17 together withseats22,23 formU-shaped channels20,21 respectively, which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30. Typically, at least one throughhole24 is directed in the anterior to posterior direction and located withinspacer member11 in theintercostal spacer device10. In one approach, connector40 (seeFIG. 1B) is inserted intohole24 following the placement ofintercostal spacer device10 betweenadjacent ribs30. As depicted inFIG. 1B, afirst connector40 may be inserted through passage orhole24 that extends from ananterior surface31 ofspacer member11 to aposterior surface32 of spacer member and then wraps over the superior surface ofrib30 which is positioned withinupper channel20. Asecond connector40 may be inserted through a second passage orhole24 that extends fromanterior surface31 ofspacer member11 toposterior surface32 ofspacer member11 and then wraps over the inferior surface of a secondadjacent rib30 which is positioned withinlower channel21. The ends ofconnectors40 may be secured using crimps, knots, ties or other suitable fasteners. It is understood to those skilled in the art that other securement techniques and configurations are contemplated and will depend on the type ofconnector40 used withinintercostal spacer device10.
• As shown inFIG. 1C, an alternative method of securingintercostal spacer device10 within the intercostal space may include extending at least oneconnector40 around the circumference of the exterior surface ofintercostal spacer device10 and the twoadjacent ribs30. The ends ofconnector40 may be then be secured using crimps, knots, ties or other suitable fasteners, although it is understood to those skilled in the art that other securement techniques and configurations are contemplated and will depend on the type ofconnector40 used in securingintercostal spacer device10 within the intercostal space.
• As seen inFIG. 1D, another alternative method of securingintercostal spacer device10 within the intercostal space is contemplated.FIG. 1D depicts the use of at least oneconnector40 typically utilizing a figure-8 configuration. A single ormultiple connector40 may be inserted through an angled passage orhole25 that extends fromanterior surface31 ofspacer member11 toposterior surface32 ofspacer member11 and then looped over the superior surface ofrib30 which is positioned withinupper channel20.Connector40 is further passed through a second angled passage orhole25 that extends fromanterior surface31 ofspacer member11 toposterior surface32 of spacermember allowing connector40 to also loop over the inferior surface of a secondadjacent rib30 which is positioned withinlower channel21. The two ends ofconnector40 may be secured using crimps, knots, ties or other suitable fastener. It is understood to those skilled in the art that other securement techniques and configurations are contemplated and will depend on the type ofconnector40 used withinintercostal spacer device10.Connector40 may be in the form of a wire, cable, tether, belt, band, cord or other suitable structure for securement within the intercostal space and may be fabricated from a material selected from the group consisting of carbon fiber composite polymers, bio-compatible metals, resorbable polymers, bio-inert polymeric materials, and any combinations of these materials.
• Another alternative method for securingintercostal spacer device10 within the intercostal space is seen atFIGS. 1E and 1F. As shown,intercostal spacer device10 includes aspacer member11 comprising asuperior end12 and aninferior end13. Extending in an upward direction fromsuperior end12 is preferably one pair ofarms14, includinganterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Further, extending in a downward direction frominferior end13 is preferably one pair ofarms17 that may includeanterior arm18 andposterior arm19. As provided above,upper channel20 is typically defined byseat22,anterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Additionally,lower channel21 is defined byseat23,anterior arm18 andposterior arm19. Each pair ofarms14,17 together withseats22,23 formU-shaped channels20,21 respectively, which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30. Preferably, at least one throughhole26 is directed in an anterior to posterior direction and passes throughanterior arms15,18 andposterior arms16,19 located within superior pair ofarms14 and inferior pair ofarms17, respectively. As seen inFIG. 1E, at least onehole26 extends through superior pair ofarms14 and is substantially parallel to asecond hole26 extending through inferior pair ofarms17. In use,intercostal spacer device10 is placed within an intercostal space and typically is maneuvered in a manner to allow twoadjacent ribs30 to be positioned within upper andlower channels20,21, causing the anterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactanterior arms15,18 and the posterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactposterior arms16,19. Following final placement ofintercostal spacer device10, a connector41 (seeFIG. 1F) is inserted intohole26 following the placement ofintercostal spacer device10 betweenadjacent ribs30. As depicted inFIG. 1E, oneconnector41 may be inserted throughhole26 that is located in the most upper portion of superior pair ofarms14 and spanupper channel20 and across the superior margin ofrib30. Preferably, asecond connector41 is inserted through asecond hole26 located in the most downward portion of inferior set ofarms17 and spanlower channel21 and across the inferior margin ofrib30. The ends of the twoconnectors41 may be secured using crimps, caps, nuts, rivets, or other suitable fastener device. It is understood to those skilled in the art that other securement techniques and configurations are contemplated and will depend on the type ofconnector41 used withinintercostal spacer device10.Connector41 may be in the form of a bolt, screw, lock pin, rivet, staple, press-fit pin or other suitable structure for securement within the intercostal space and may be fabricated from a material selected from the group consisting of carbon fiber composite polymers, bio-compatible metals, resorbable polymers, bio-inert polymeric materials, and any combinations of these materials.
• FIG. 2 depicts an intercostal spacer system that includes a plurality ofintercostal spacer devices10 placed within the rib cage to correct a spinal deformity of a patient. Multipleintercostal spacer devices10 are inserted into the intercostal spaces of severaladjacent ribs30 at corresponding deformed spinal levels. Adjacentintercostal spacer devices10 are preferably implanted in an offset manner relative to each other, resulting in an overall generally staggered arrangement. As described previously, each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices10 may be secured within the intercostal space with at least oneconnector40,41 (not shown). Alternatively, at least oneconnector40 may link or couple each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices10 to each other (not shown). Typically, the number ofintercostal spacer devices10 implanted may be dependent upon the severity of the spinal deformity and the affected levels of the spinal column. By way of example only, inFIG. 2, threeintercostal spacer devices10 are placed on the concave side of a medial-lateral deformity that spans four levels of the spinal column.
• FIG. 3 depicts an alternative embodiment of anintercostal spacer device100.Intercostal spacer device100 includes aspacer member110 comprising of asuperior end112 and aninferior end113 with a central axis (not shown) extending betweensuperior end112 andinferior end113. Extending in an upward direction fromsuperior end112 is preferably two pair ofarms114, with each pair of arms including ananterior arm115 and aposterior arm116. Further, extending frominferior end113 in a downward direction is preferably one pair ofarms117 that may include ananterior arm118 and aposterior arm119. Each pair ofarms114,117 are integral tospacer member110 usually with one of the two superior pair ofarms114 being offset laterally relative to the central axis and the second of the two superior pair ofarms114 being offset medially relative to the central axis. The inferior pair ofarms117 are preferably centered about the central axis resulting in a roughly Y-shaped overall structure definingintercostal spacer device100. For each of superior pair ofarms114, anupper channel120 is typically defined by aseat122,anterior arm115 andposterior arm116. Additionally, for inferior pair ofarms117, alower channel121 is defined by aseat123,anterior arm118 andposterior arm119. For both superior pair ofarms114,anterior arm115 andposterior arm116 are disposed relatively parallel to each other and project in a generally upward manner fromseat122. For inferior pair ofarms117,anterior arm118 andposterior arm119 project in a generally downward manner fromseat123 and are substantially parallel to each other. Each pair ofarms114,117, together withseats122,123 formU-shaped channels120,121 respectively, which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30 and allowintercostal spacer device100 to resist dislodgement following implantation within the rib cage.
• Although not shown, it is contemplated that eitherconnector40,41 may be utilized withintercostal spacer device100 to secureintercostal spacer device100 within an intercostal space. As described above, it is contemplated thatconnector40 may pass through anterior to posterior directed, single or multiple, straight or angled holes or passages (not shown) withinspacer member110, thereby allowingconnector40 to wrap or loop around or over both superior pair ofarms114 and inferior pair ofarms117 allowing for securement ofintercostal spacer device100 within the intercostal space in the same or similar manner as described above forintercostal spacer device10. Further, as discussed above, it is understood thatconnector41 may be inserted through anterior to posterior directed, single or multiple straight holes or passages (not shown) within both superior pair ofarms114 and inferior pair ofarms117. The holes located in both superior pair ofarms114 being substantially parallel to the hole or passage located in inferior pair ofarms117. When in use,connector41 preferably will be inserted through the holes that are located in the upper most portion of both superior pair ofarms114 and span eachupper channel120 and across the superior margin ofrib30. Additionally, asecond connector41 may be inserted through a hole or passage located in the downward most portion of inferior set ofarms117 and spanlower channel121 crossing over the inferior margin ofrib30.
• As shown inFIGS. 4A,4B and4C, when used in the rib cage,intercostal spacer device100 is typically placed within an intercostal space. Preferably,intercostal spacer device100 is maneuvered in a manner allowing twoadjacent ribs30 to be positioned within twoupper channels120 andlower channel121, causing the anterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactanterior arms115,118 and the posterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactposterior arms116,119.
• FIGS. 4A and 4B further depict an alternative embodiment of an intercostal spacer system that includes a plurality ofintercostal spacer devices100 in use within the rib cage to correct a spinal deformity of a patient. Multipleintercostal spacer devices100 are inserted into the intercostal spaces ofadjacent ribs30 at corresponding affected spinal levels. Adjacentintercostal spacer devices100 are preferably implanted in close association relative to each other, resulting in an overall generally linear arrangement of the system as shown inFIG. 4A. Preferably, when implanted, the shape and size ofintercostal spacer device100 allows for inferior pair ofarms117 of an upper placedintercostal spacer device100 to be positioned proximate or within the space defined between the two superior pair ofarms114 of an adjacent lower placedintercostal spacer device100. As described previously, each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices100 may be secured within the intercostal space with at least oneconnector40,41 (not shown). Alternatively, at least oneconnector40 may link or couple each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices100 to each other (not shown). Typically, the number ofintercostal spacer devices100 implanted is dependent upon the severity of the spinal deformity and the affected levels of the spinal column. By way of example only, inFIG. 4C, threeintercostal spacer devices100 are shown to be used to correct a spinal deformity that spans four levels of the spinal column.
• FIG. 5 depicts still another alternative embodiment of anintercostal spacer device200.Intercostal spacer device200 includes aspacer member210 comprising asuperior end212 and aninferior end213 with a central axis (not shown) extending betweensuperior end212 andinferior end213. Extending in an upward direction fromsuperior end212 is preferably one pair ofarms214 including ananterior arm215 and aposterior arm216. Further, extending in a downward direction frominferior end213 is preferably one pair ofarms217 that may include ananterior arm218 and aposterior arm219. Each pair ofarms214,217 are integral tospacer member210 usually with superior pair ofarms214 being offset laterally relative to the central axis and inferior pair ofarms217 being preferably offset medially relative to the central axis. It is contemplated, that an alternative configuration ofintercostal spacer device200 may include each pair ofarms214,217 to be opposite as described previously, in that superior pair ofarms214 being offset medially relative to the central axis and inferior pair ofarms217 being offset laterally relative to the central axis. Anupper channel220 is typically defined by aseat222,anterior arm215 andposterior arm216. Additionally, for inferior pair ofarms217, alower channel221 is defined by aseat223,anterior arm218 andposterior arm219.Anterior arm215 andposterior arm216 are disposed relatively parallel to each other and project in a generally upward direction fromseat222. Inferior pair ofarms217,anterior arm218 andposterior arm219 project in a generally downward direction fromseat223 and are substantially parallel to each other. Each pair ofarms214,217, together withseats222,223 formU-shaped channels220,221 respectively, which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30.
• Although not shown, as discussed above, it is contemplated that eitherconnector40,41 may be utilized withintercostal spacer device200 to secureintercostal spacer device200 within an intercostal space. As described previously, it is contemplated thatconnector40 may be positioned through anterior to posterior directed, single or multiple, straight or angled holes (not shown) withinspacer member210, thereby allowingconnector40 to wrap or loop around or over superior pair ofarms214 and inferior pair ofarms217 allowing for securement ofintercostal spacer device200 within the intercostal space in the same or similar manner as described forintercostal spacer device10. Further, as discussed above, it is understood thatconnector41 may be inserted through anterior to posterior directed, single or multiple straight holes or passages (not shown) within superior pair ofarms214 and inferior pair ofarms217. The hole or passage located in superior pair ofarms214 being substantially parallel to the hole located in inferior pair ofarms217. When in use,connector41 preferably will be inserted through the hole or passage that is located in the upper most portion of superior pair ofarms214 and spanupper channel220 and across the superior margin ofrib30. Additionally, asecond connector41 may be inserted through a hole or passage located in the downward most portion of inferior set ofarms217 and spanlower channel221 and across the inferior margin ofrib30.
• As shown inFIGS. 6 and 7, when used in the rib cage,intercostal spacer device200 is placed within an intercostal space. Preferably,intercostal spacer device200 is maneuvered in a manner allowing twoadjacent ribs30 to be positioned within each of theupper channel220 andlower channel221, causing the anterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactanterior arms215,218 and the posterior aspect of twoadjacent ribs30 to contactposterior arms216,219.Upper channel220 andlower channel221 are sized and configured to provide resistance to any in vivo forces that may dislodgeintercostal spacer device200 from its position within the intercostal space.
• FIGS. 6 and 7 further depict an alternative embodiment of an intercostal spacer system which includes a plurality ofintercostal spacer devices200 in use within the rib cage to correct a spinal deformity of a patient. Multipleintercostal spacer devices200 are inserted into the intercostal spaces ofadjacent ribs30 at corresponding affected spinal levels. Adjacentintercostal spacer devices200 are preferably implanted in close approximation relative to each other, resulting in an overall generally linear arrangement of the system. Preferably, when implanted, the shape and size ofintercostal spacer device200 allows for inferior pair ofarms217 of an upperintercostal spacer device200 to either contact or be proximate tospacer member210 of the adjacent and lowerintercostal spacer device200. Additionally, when implanted, typically, superior pair ofarms214 of lowerintercostal spacer device200 will contact or be in close approximation tospacer member210 of adjacent upperintercostal spacer device200. As shown inFIG. 7, following implantation,rib30 may be simultaneously located withinlower channel221 of a superior placedintercostal spacer device200 andupper channel220 of an inferior placedintercostal spacer device200. As described previously, each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices200 may be secured within the intercostal space with at least oneconnector40,41 (not shown). Alternatively, at least oneconnector40 may link or couple each of the plurality ofintercostal spacer devices200 to each other (not shown). Usually, the number ofintercostal spacer devices200 implanted is dependent upon the severity of the spinal deformity and the affected levels of the spinal column. By way of example only, inFIG. 6, threeintercostal spacer devices200 are used to correct a spinal deformity that spans four levels of the spinal column.
• With respect to the various embodiments of theintercostal spacer device10,100,200 described herein, theintercostal spacer device10,100,200 can be fabricated from materials that are flexible or exhibit at least some flexibility. Additionally, theintercostal spacer device10,100,200 may be fabricated from materials that are resilient and/or elastic, so it can assume various shapes during and after insertion and securement within the intercostal space.
• Theintercostal spacer device10,100,200 can be made from any biocompatible material, material of synthetic or natural origin, and material of a resorbable or non-resorbable nature. Suitable examples of construct material include resorbable materials including polylactide, polyglycolide, tyrosine-derived polycarbonate, polyanhydride, polyorthoester, polyphosphazene, calcium phosphate, hydroxyapatite, bioactive glass, collagen, albumin, fibrinogen and combinations thereof; and non-resorbable materials including polyethylene, polyester, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, polytetrafluorethylene, poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide, polyetheretherketone, poly urethane, and combinations thereof. Further non-resorbable materials may include carbon-reinforced polymer composites, shape-memory alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, cobalt chrome alloys, stainless steel, and combinations thereof. Theintercostal spacer device10,100,200 is preferably fabricated from material capable of resisting compressive motion (or loads) with a stiffness of about 10 to about 300 N/mm (newtons per millimeter).
• The method for correcting a spinal deformity includes, providing at least oneintercostal spacer device10,intercostal spacer device10 includesspacer member11 comprisingsuperior end12 andinferior end13 with a central axis (not shown) extending betweensuperior end12 andinferior end13. Extending outward fromsuperior end12 is preferably at least one superior pair ofarms14 that may includeanterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Further, extending outward frominferior end13 is preferably one superior pair ofarms17 that may includeanterior arm18 andposterior arm19. Each pair ofarms14,17 are integral tospacer member11. Anupper channel20 is typically defined byseat22,anterior arm15 andposterior arm16. Additionally, alower channel21 is defined byseat23,anterior arm18 andposterior arm19. Each pair ofarms14,17, together withseats22,23 formU-shaped channels20,21 which are each appropriately sized to receive arib30. The method further includes preferably positioningintercostal spacer device10 within the intercostal space between twoadjacent ribs30. Preferably, theintercostal spacer device10 is maneuvered in a manner that typically results in the positioning of afirst rib30 intoupper channel20 between superior pair ofarms14 and asecond rib30 intolower channel21 between inferior pair ofarms17. Placement ofribs30 within upper andlower channels20,21 securesintercostal spacer device10 within the patient's rib cage and produces a compressive or distraction force, depending on the spinal curvature geometry, for correcting a spinal deformity. It is further understood that the method may include insertingconnectors40,41 into each of theintercostal spacer devices10 following implantation into the intercostal space. Preferably, at least oneconnector40 may be utilized with each individualintercostal spacer device10 or alternatively, at least oneconnector40 may link or couple the plurality of intercostal spacer devices to each other. It is contemplated herein that the steps of the method for connecting a spinal deformity are analogous to those that may be used withintercostal spacer device100 andintercostal spacer device200 described herein.
• FIGS. 8,9,10 and11 show a further alternative embodiment of theintercostal spacer device400 that can be formed in situ during a surgical procedure.Intercostal spacer device400 includes the following basic aspects: aflexible container402 and astructure404 for at least part offlexible container402 that controls at least part of the shape ofintercostal spacer device400.Flexible container402 can be filled or injected throughoptional conduit406 after placement. Further,structure404 may be folded or otherwise reduced in size prior to use in some aspects. Together with anunfilled container402, in some aspects,intercostal spacer device400 can create a smaller footprint during implantation. Once filled,structure404 provides support and containment for theflexible container402, as well as providing shape control for at least part ofintercostal spacer device400.
• FIG. 8 depicts a partially cut-away view ofintercostal spacer device400. As shown inFIG. 8,intercostal spacer device400 comprises an unfilledflexible container402 insidestructure404. Preferably,flexible container402 is in an evacuated state during implantation and prior to being filled. Where a valve (e.g., a one-way valve) is coupled toflexible container402, withflexible container402 preferably being evacuated prior to or during the process of coupling the valve thereto. In this embodiment,structure404 is outsideflexible container402. However, as will be described in more detail below,flexible container402 can beoutside structure404, orflexible container402 andstructure404 can be integrated. In addition, althoughstructure404 is shown to be roughly H-shaped to fit betweenadjacent ribs30,structure404 may have any shape necessary for the particular surgical application. For example,structure404 could instead have a roughly cylindrical shape to replace an intervertebral disc. As another example,structure404 could be spherically or elliptically shaped to replace part of the intervertebral disc, for example, the nucleus pulpous, leaving the rest of the disc intact. Further, althoughstructure404 is shown enveloping theflexible container402,structure404 could be for only a portion offlexible container402, depending on the particular application. For example, it may be desired to prevent bulging offlexible container402 only in a particular area. Coupled toflexible container402 isoptional conduit406 for accepting a material that is compressible following implantation.Structure404 provides support for and containment offlexible container402, when filled.
• Flexible container402 is flexible and substantially impermeable to the material it will be filled with. However, depending on the application,flexible container402 may be permeable to other materials, for example, it may be air and/or water permeable. In the present example,flexible container402 takes the form of a bag or balloon, but can take other forms, so long as flexible and substantially impermeable to the material it will be filled with. Thus,flexible container402 must be substantially impermeable to the injectable material, for example, in a liquid state during filling and prior to curing. Examples of container materials include silicone, rubber, polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyolefin, polycarbonate urethane, and silicone copolymers.
• Conduit406 accepts the injectable material being used to fillflexible container402. Preferably,conduit406 comprises a one-way valve, however, a two-way valve is also contemplated, as another example.Conduit406 can comprise any material suitable for implanting, for example, various plastics. Also preferably,conduit406 is constructed to be used with a delivery system for fillingflexible container402, such as, for example, a pressurized syringe-type delivery system. However, the delivery system itself forms no part of the present invention. It is contemplated that,conduit406 may be optional. Other examples of how to fillflexible container402 comprise the use of a self-sealing material forflexible container402, or leaving an opening inflexible container402 that is closed (e.g., sewn shut) intraoperatively after filling. Using a curable material to fillflexible container402 may also serve to self-sealflexible container402.
• In use,flexible container402 is filled with an injectable material that is compressible following implantation between two adjacent ribs of a patient. The compressibility characteristic ensures that the injected material exhibits viscoelastic behavior and that, along withstructure404, theintercostal spacer device400 can accept compressive loads. Preferably,intercostal spacer device400 may be capable of resisting compressive motion (or loads) with a stiffness of about 10 to about 300 N/mm (newtons per millimeter). The material is preferably injectable, and may be compressible immediately or after a time, for example, after curing. For purposes of the invention, the compressibility characteristic is necessary during end use, i.e., after implantation. Materials that could be used include, for example, a plurality of beads (e.g., polymer beads) that in the aggregate are compressible, or materials that change state from exhibiting fluid properties to exhibiting properties of a solid or semi-solid. Examples of such state-changing materials include two-part curing polymers and adhesive, for example, platinum-catalyzed silicone, epoxy or polyurethane.
• As noted above,structure404 provides support for and containment ofcontainer402 when filled, as well as at least partial shape control ofintercostal spacer device400.Structure404 comprises, for example, a structural mesh comprising a plurality of fibers and/orwires408. Within the structural mesh are shape-control fibers and/orwires410. In one example, shape control is provided by wires of a shape-memory alloy (e.g., Nitinol). Shape-memory alloy wire(s)410 can be coupled to the structural mesh (inside or outside), or weaved into the mesh (i.e., integrated). Coupling can be achieved, for example, by stitching, twisting, or closing the wire on itself. Alternatively, shape control can be provided by other wires or fibers that do not “give” in a particular direction, for example, metal or metal alloys (e.g., tantalum, titanium or steel, and non-metals, for example, carbon fiber, PET, polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.). The shape-memory alloy can be passive (e.g., elastic) or active (e.g., body-temperature activated). The use of metal, metal alloy or barium coated wires or fibers can also improve radiopacity for imaging. The remainder ofstructure404 can take the form of, for example, a fabric jacket, as shown inFIG. 8. Although the shape-memory alloy wires410 make up only a portion of the structural mesh ofFIG. 8, it will be understood that there could be more such wires, up to and including comprising the entirety of the mesh. The fabric jacket in this example contains and helps protectflexible container402 from bulging and damage from forces external toflexible container402, while the shape-memory alloy provides shape control ofintercostal spacer device400 in acenter region412. The fibers of the jacket comprise, for example, PET fabric, polypropylene fabric, polyethylene fabric and/or steel, titanium or other metal wire. Depending on the application,structure404 may be permeable to a desired degree. For example, if bone or tissue growth is desired to attach to structure404, permeability to the tissue or bone of interest would be appropriate. As another example, permeability ofstructure404 may be desired to allow the material used to fillflexible container402 to evacuate air or water, for example, fromflexible container402, in order to prevent bubbles from forming inside. Where a mesh is used, for example, the degree of permeability desired can be achieved by loosening or tightening the weave.
• Althoughstructure404 is shown in a roughly H-shape in the example ofFIG. 8, it will be understood that in practice,structure404 can be made to be folded, unexpanded, or otherwise compacted. This is particularly true where, for example,structure404 comprises a fabric or other easily folded material. A folded or unexpanded state facilitates implantation, allowing for a smaller surgical opening, and unfolding or expansion in situ upon filling offlexible container402. Further,structure404 can have a different final shape, depending on the shape-control material used. For example, the shape-memory wires inFIG. 8 may be in their inactive state, whereupon activation by body temperature causes contraction thereof, making the spacer ofFIG. 8 “thinner” than shown incenter region412.
• FIG. 9 depicts an outer view of another example of anintercostal spacer device500 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Aflexible container conduit501 is shown pointing outward from anopening503. As shown, thestructure502 delimits the final shape ofintercostal spacer device500.Structure502 comprises amesh504 of shape-memory alloy wire, that is soaked through with a dispersion polymer506 (e.g., silicone). The dispersion polymer (after curing) acts as the flexible container and is shown filled inFIG. 9. This is one example of the flexible container andstructure502 being integral. Althoughmesh504 ofFIG. 9 is described as being all shape-memory alloy wire, it will be understood that, likeFIG. 8, the shape-memory alloy could only form a part ofstructure502.
• FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another example of anintercostal spacer device600 in accordance with the present invention.Intercostal spacer device600 is similar tointercostal spacer device500 ofFIG. 9, except that instead of being soaked in a dispersion polymer, astructural mesh602 of a shape-memory alloy wire is coated with a dispersion polymer (e.g., silicone)604 or other curable liquid appropriate for the container material, creating an outer flexible container. The coating can be done in a conventional manner, for example, by dip molding on the outside of the mesh.
• FIG. 11 depicts yet another example of anintercostal spacer device800 with an integrated flexible container and structure, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention. The flexible container and structure in the example ofFIG. 11 both comprise asingle layer802 of rubber that is thick enough for a given application to perform the functions of both the flexible container and structure (including shape control). Such a rubber shell would be able to return to its original shape when unconstrained. In addition,intercostal spacer device800 preferably includes a conduit804 (preferably, a one-way valve) for filling theinternal space806. The injectable material can be any of the filling materials described above, for example, silicone.
• In an alternate aspect, therubber shell802 ofFIG. 11 can be augmented with internal, external, or integrated features to further control shape. Examples of such features include thread, wires (e.g., metal, including shape-memory alloys), cables, tethers, rings or a mesh.
• The method for correcting a spinal deformity utilizing an alternative embodiment of the intercostal spacer device includes, providing at least oneintercostal spacer device400, theintercostal device400 includes aflexible container402 used to contain an injectable material, withflexible container402 being preferably impermeable to the injectable material, aconduit406 coupled toflexible container402 for receiving the injectable material and astructure404, that controls at least part offlexible container402 after injectable material is injected throughconduit406 and intoflexible container402.Structure404 has a shape that is sized and configured for placement between two adjacent ribs of a patient. The method preferably provides forintercostal spacer device400 to be implanted into the intercostal space between two adjacent ribs. The method would also typically include injecting the injectable material preferably throughconduit406 intoflexible container402, the injectable material being compressible followingintercostal spacer device400 implantation between two adjacent ribs. The compressibility characteristic ensures that the injectable material exhibits viscoelastic behavior and that, along withstructure404, theintercostal spacer device400 can accept compressive loads and produce distraction forces for correcting a spinal deformity within a patient.
• Although the preferred embodiments have been depicted and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that various modifications, additions and substitutions can be made without departing from its essence and therefore these are to be considered to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (57)

1. An intercostal spacer device for use in correcting a spinal deformity comprising:

a spacer member comprising a first end and a second end;

a first pair of arms extending from the first end of the spacer member and a second pair of arms extending from the second end of the spacer member; and

wherein the spacer member, first pair of arms and second pair of arms are sized and configured to allow for placement of the intercostal spacer device between two adjacent ribs of a patient to dynamically produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

2. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein the first pair of arms includes a first anterior arm and a first posterior arm, the first anterior arm and the first posterior arm being substantially parallel to each other and forming a first channel therebetween, and wherein the first channel is sized to receive a first rib of the two adjacent ribs, and wherein the second pair of arms includes a second anterior arm and a second posterior arm, with the second anterior arm and the second posterior arm extending substantially parallel to each other and forming a second channel therebetween, wherein the second channel is sized to receive a second rib of the two adjacent ribs of the patient.

3. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 2, wherein the first and second posterior arms are configured for positioning along a posterior side of the first and second ribs and the first and second anterior arms are configured for positioning along an anterior side of the first and second ribs.

4. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein the spacer member comprises a central axis extending between the first end and the second end thereof, with the first pair of arms disposed at the first end and the second pair of arms disposed at the second end each being centered about the central axis.

5. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms is offset in a lateral direction relative to the central axis of the spacer member, and wherein at least one of the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms is offset in a medial direction relative to the central axis of the spacer member.

6. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one additional pair of arms extending from the first end of the spacer member.

7. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 6, wherein the at least one additional pair of arms disposed at the first end of the spacer member is offset in the lateral direction relative to the central axis and the first pair of arms disposed at the first end of the spacer member is offset in the medial direction relative to the central axis, and wherein the second pair of arms at the second end of the spacer member is centered about the central axis.

8. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector is configured to secure the intercostal spacer device between the first and second ribs of the patient.

9. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 8, wherein the spacer member includes at least one bore extending therethrough between an anteriorly oriented side and a posteriorly oriented side of the spacer member when positioned between the first and second ribs and the at least one connector extends through the at least one bore when employed to couple the intercostal spacer device to the first and second ribs.

10. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 8, wherein the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms each include at least one bore extending therethrough between an anteriorly oriented side and a posteriorly oriented side thereof, with the at least one bore disposed within the first pair of arms extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of the at least one bore disposed within the second pair of arms, wherein the at least one connector is multiple connectors, and wherein a first connector of the multiple connectors extends through the at least one bore in the first pair of arms and a second connector of the multiple connectors extends through the at least one bore in the second pair of arms when employed to couple the intercostal spacer device to the first and second ribs.

11. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 8, wherein the at least one connector comprises at least one of a tether, cable, wire, band, screw, lock pin, rivet, staple and press-fit pin.

12. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein the intercostal spacer device is fabricated from a flexible material.

13. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 1, wherein the intercostal spacer device is capable of resisting a compressive load with a stiffness of about 10 N/mm to about 300 N/mm.

14. An intercostal spacer device for use in correcting a spinal deformity comprising:

a flexible container for containing an injectable material, the flexible container being substantially impermeable to the injectable material and being compressible following implantation between two adjacent ribs of a patient;

a conduit coupled to the flexible container for injecting the injectable material into the flexible container;

a structure for at least part of the flexible container; and

wherein the structure controls at least part of a shape of the intercostal spacer device, and wherein the structure is sized and configured for placement of the intercostal spacer device between two adjacent ribs of a patient to produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

15. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the injectable material is flowable during filling of the flexible container.

16. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the conduit comprises a one-way valve.

17. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the flexible container is situated inside the structure.

18. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the flexible container is situated outside the structure.

19. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the flexible container is integral with the structure.

20. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the structure comprises a shape memory alloy.

21. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 20, wherein the shape memory alloy is body temperature activated.

22. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 20, wherein the shape memory alloy is elastic.

23. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 20, wherein the shape memory alloy is coupled to an inside of the structure.

24. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 20, wherein the shape memory alloy is coupled to an outside of the structure.

25. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 24, wherein the structure comprises a plurality of interlocking links, and wherein the plurality of interlocking links comprise the shape memory alloy.

26. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 20, wherein the structure comprises a structural mesh, and wherein the shape memory alloy comprises at least one shape memory alloy wire within the structural mesh.

27. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the structure has at least a partially preformed shape.

28. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the container and the structure together comprise a layer of rubber thick enough to roughly maintain a desired shape.

29. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the container comprises at least one of silicone, rubber, polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyolefin, polycarbonate urethane, and silicone copolymer.

30. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the injectable material comprises at least one of a curable polymer and an adhesive.

31. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the structure comprises at least one of PET fabric, polypropylene fabric, polyethylene fabric and metal wire.

32. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the intercostal spacer device is capable of resisting a compressive load with a stiffness of about 10 N/mm to about 300 N/mm.

33. The intercostal spacer device ofclaim 14, wherein the structure is at least partially permeable.

34. A method of controlling at least part of a shape of an intercostal spacer device, the intercostal spacer device comprising a flexible container for containing an injectable material, the container being substantially impermeable to the injectable material, and a structure for at least part of the flexible container, the method comprising creating the structure with at least one material for controlling at least part of a shape of the intercostal spacer device with the intercostal spacer device being sized and configured for placement between two adjacent ribs of a patient to dynamically produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient, and with the flexible container being compressible following implantation between the two adjacent ribs of the patient.

35. The method ofclaim 34, wherein the creating comprises adding a shape memory alloy to the structure.

36. The method ofclaim 35, wherein the structure comprises a structural mesh, and wherein the creating comprises adding at least one shape-memory alloy wire to the structural mesh.

37. The method ofclaim 35, wherein the creating comprises coupling the at least one shape memory alloy to the structure.

38. The method ofclaim 34, wherein the creating comprises adding a layer of rubber thick enough to roughly maintain a desired shape.

39. An intercostal spacer system, the intercostal spacer system comprising:

a plurality of intercostal spacer devices, the plurality of intercostal spacers including:

a first intercostal spacer device comprising a spacer member including a first end and a second end, and a first pair of arms extending from the first end and a second pair of arms extending from the second end, wherein the spacer member, first pair of arms and second pair of arms of the first intercostal spacer device are sized and configured for placement between a first rib and an adjacent second rib of a patient;

a second intercostal spacer device, comprising a spacer member including a first end and a second end, and a first pair of arms extending from the first end and a second pair of arms extending from the second end, wherein the spacer member, first pair of arms and second pair of arms of the second intercostal spacer device are sized and configured for placement between adjacent second rib and a third rib of the patient; and

wherein the first intercostal spacer and the second intercostal spacer cooperate to dynamically produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

40. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the first pair of arms includes a first anterior arm and a first posterior arm, with the first anterior arm and the first posterior arm being substantially parallel to each other and forming a first channel therebetween, and wherein the first channel is sized to receive a first rib of the patient, and wherein the second pair of arms includes a second anterior arm and a second posterior arm, with the second anterior arm and the second posterior arm extending substantially parallel to each other and forming a second channel therebetween, wherein the channel is sized to receive an adjacent second rib of the patient.

41. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 40, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the first and second posterior arms of the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms are each positionable along a posterior side of the first and second ribs and the first and second anterior arms in the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms is positionable along an anterior side of the first and second ribs.

42. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the spacer member comprises a central axis extending between the first end and the second end thereof, with the first pair of arms disposed at the first end and the second pair of arms disposed at the second end each being centered about the central axis.

43. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein the first intercostal spacer device is positioned between the first rib and the second rib and the second intercostal spacer device is positioned between the second rib and the third rib, wherein the first intercostal spacer device is positioned offset relative to the second intercostal spacer device.

44. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 42, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, at least one of the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms is offset in a lateral direction relative to the central axis of the spacer member, and wherein at least one of the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms is offset in a medial direction relative to the central axis of the spacer member.

45. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 44, wherein the first intercostal spacer device is positioned between the first rib and the second rib of the patient and the second intercostal spacer device is positioned between the second rib and the third rib of the patient, wherein when implanted, the first intercostal spacer device is positioned for close approximation relative to the second intercostal spacer device to produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

46. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the intercostal spacer device further comprising at least one additional pair of arms extending from the first end of the spacer member.

47. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 46, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the additional pair of arms disposed at the first end of the spacer member is offset in the lateral direction relative to the central axis and the first pair of arms disposed at the first end of the spacer member is offset in the medial direction relative to the central axis, and wherein the second pair of arms extending from the second end of the spacer member is centered about the central axis.

48. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 47, wherein the plurality intercostal spacer devices are shaped and dimensioned to allow for close association in use between adjacent ribs of a patient, wherein the positioning of the plurality of intercostal spacer devices facilitate the correction of a spinal deformity in the patient.

49. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the intercostal spacer device further comprises at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector is configured to secure the intercostal spacer device between the first and second ribs of the patient.

50. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein the intercostal spacer system further comprising at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector is configured to couple each of the plurality of intercostal spacer devices together.

51. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 49, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the spacer member includes at least one bore extending therethrough between an anteriorly oriented side and a posteriorly oriented side of the spacer member when positioned between the first and second ribs and the at least one connector extends through the at least one bore when employed to couple the intercostal spacer device to the first and second ribs.

52. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 49, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms each include at least one bore extending therethrough between an anteriorly oriented side and a posteriorly oriented side thereof, with the at least one bore disposed within the first pair of arms extending in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of the at least one bore disposed within the second pair of arms, wherein the at least one connector is multiple connectors, and wherein a first connector of the multiple connectors extends through the at least one bore in the first pair of arms and a second connector of the multiple connectors extends through the at least one bore in the second pair of arms when employed to couple the intercostal spacer device to the first and second ribs.

53. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 49, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the at least one connector comprises at least one of a tether, cable, wire, band, screw, lock pin, rivet, staple and press-fit pin.

54. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein for each of the intercostal spacer devices, the intercostal spacer device is fabricated from a flexible material.

55. The intercostal spacer system ofclaim 39, wherein each of the intercostal spacer devices are capable of resisting a compressive load with a stiffness of about 10 N/mm to about 300 N/mm.

56. A method for correcting a spinal deformity, the method comprising:

providing at least one intercostal spacer device comprising a spacer member having a first end and a second end, and at least one first pair of arms extending from the first end and a second pair of arms extending from the second end, wherein the spacer member, the at least one first pair of arms and the second pair of arms of the at least one intercostal spacer device are sized and configured for placement between a first rib and an adjacent second rib of a patient; and

positioning the at least one intercostal spacer device between the first rib and the adjacent second rib of the patient, with the first rib disposed between the at least one first pair of arms and the second rib disposed between the second pair of arms, thereby facilitating securing the at least one intercostal spacer device between the first rib and adjacent second rib and producing a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

57. A method for correcting a spinal deformity, the method comprising:

providing an intercostal spacer device, the intercostal spacer device comprising:

a flexible container for containing an injectable material, the flexible container being substantially impermeable to the injectable material and being compressible following implantation between two adjacent ribs of a patient;

a conduit coupled to the flexible container for injecting the injectable material into the flexible container; and

a structure for at least part of the flexible container, the structure has a shape of the intercostal spacer device, with the intercostal spacer device being sized and configured for placement between two adjacent ribs of a patient;

implanting the intercostal spacer device between the two adjacent ribs of the patient; and

injecting the injectable material into the flexible container through the conduit so that the shape of the structure is achieved, thereby producing a force for correcting a spinal deformity of the patient.

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