Spinal implants are disclosed that can be used for annular repair, facet
unloading, disc height preservation, disc decompression, or for sealing a
portal through which an intervertebral implant was placed. In some
embodiments, an implant is placed within the intervertebral disc space,
primarily within the region of the annulus fibrosus. In some embodiments,
the implant is expandable. In some embodiments, the implant has a sealing
tail structure comprising a tail flange and a linkage. In some
embodiments, the sealing tail structure limits the extrusion or expulsion
of disc material, either annulus fibrosus or nucleus, into the posterior
region of the spine where it could impinge on nerves. In some
embodiments, the tail structure is retained in place within the annulus
fibrosus by means of an anchor. In some embodiments, the anchor is
constructed from multiple components.