Prosthetic nucleus apparatus and methods for treating an intervertebral
disc are disclosed. Prosthetic nucleus apparatus may include a barrier
sealant membrane and a prosthetic nucleus material. The barrier sealant
membrane forms a chamber which can receive the prosthetic nucleus
material. The barrier sealant membrane can be formed by depositing a
layer of material on a tissue surface within a de-nucleated space within
an intervertebral disc. The prosthetic nucleus material may be positioned
within the chamber of the barrier sealant membrane after the barrier
sealant membrane is deposited within the de-nucleated space. The barrier
sealant membrane and the prosthetic nucleus material may be positioned
within a patient through an axial trans-sacral bore. A plug may also be
included to prevent expulsion of the barrier sealant membrane and
prosthetic nucleus material.