(19)
(11) EP 0 998 331 A1

(12)

(43) Date of publication:
10.05.2000 Bulletin 2000/19

(21) Application number: 97944305.8

(22) Date of filing: 17.09.1997
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC)7: A61N 5/02, A61N 5/04, A61N 1/40
(86) International application number:
PCT/US9716/120
(87) International publication number:
WO 9811/944 (26.03.1998 Gazette 1998/12)
(84) Designated Contracting States:
CH DE FR GB IT LI NL

(30) Priority: 17.09.1996 US 714987

(71) Applicant: Oratec Interventions, Inc.
Menlo Park, CA 94025 (US)

(72) Inventors:
  • SHARKEY, Hugh
    Woodside, CA 94062 (US)
  • FANTON, Gary
    Portola Valley, CA 94028 (US)

(74) Representative: Holmes, Miles Keeton et al
D. YOUNG & CO.,21 New Fetter Lane
London EC4A 1DA
London EC4A 1DA (GB)

   


(54) METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLED CONTRACTION OF SOFT TISSUE