An embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention can
include an implant having a spacer with a thickness and a wing, wherein a
first configuration of the wing has a first height substantially similar
to the thickness and wherein the wing is adapted to be selectably
arranged in a second configuration such that the wing has a second height
greater than the first height. A periphery of the implant has a shape
generally conformal with a shape of an inner surface of a cannula and a
cross-sectional diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the cannula.
The cannula is inserted such that a proximal end of the cannula is
arranged between the adjacent spinous processes. The implant is then
urged into position between the adjacent spinous processes by way of the
cannula, and subsequently arranged in a second configuration to fix the
implant in position.