Devices and methods for protecting the neurovascular structures about thevertebral column (2) are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises aneuroprotective stent or device (36) adapted for placement in anintervertebral foramen (26) of a vertebral column (2) and configured to resistcompression or impingement from surrounding structures or forces. The stent ordevice may further comprise a flange (140) to facilitate attachment of thedevice (36) to the vertebrae (4) or a hinge region (144) to facilitateinsertion of the device (36) in the foramen (26).
