| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20080221622 | Facet Joint Replacement - A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, and a superior implant with a superior articular surface. The inferior implant may comprise an inferior strut, and a polyaxially adjustable, lockable mechanism which couples the inferior articular surface with a first end of the inferior strut. A second end of the inferior strut may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable, lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. The first end of the inferior strut may be post-shaped, and the second end ring-shaped, and vice versa. The superior implant may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. Inferior and superior implants may be implanted individually, paired on one lateral vertebral side, bi-laterally, and/or in multiple vertebral levels. A crosslink may be secured to one implant and extend across a vertebral sagittal plane to a second implant. A clip may align the articular surfaces during implantation. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080234744 | SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM WITH RIGID AND FLEXIBLE ELEMENTS - A spinal stabilization system generally comprises first and second anchor members configured to be secured to first and second vertebrae within a patient's body, a flexible element secured to the first anchor member, and a rigid element secured to the second anchor member. An end portion of the rigid element is coupled to an end portion of the flexible so that the system is able to provide both rigid and dynamic stabilization. The coupling is maintained even if the flexible element relaxes after a period of time within the patient's body. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080243189 | Variable angle spinal screw assembly - A spinal screw assembly providing an adjustable securement of a fixation rod across at least two vertebrae. The assembly includes a pedicle screw having a spherical head portion, a threaded shaft portion and a tool engagement surface in the head portion for use in driving the screw into a vertebrae. The head portion of the screw is positioned in a body member adjacent a curvilinear surface disposed about an aperture in the end of the body member such that the shaft portion of the screw extends therethrough and the curvilinear inner surface abuts and mates with the head portion of the screw so as to define a ball joint therewith. The body member additionally defines a pair of opposed parallel slots therein adapted to receive a portion of the fixation rod and a locking cap bears against the fixation rod to releasably secure the rod within the assembly. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080249570 | Adjustable multi-axial spinal coupling assemblies - Coupling assemblies and systems and methods are provided with an anchor member movably coupled with a receiver member extending along a receiver axis. A seat member is movable in the receiver member to assume any one of a plurality of orientations corresponding to an orientation of a connecting element extending through the receiver member transversely to the receiver axis. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080306546 | BONE ANCHOR WITH A YOKE-SHAPED ANCHOR HEAD FOR A DYNAMIC STABILIZATION AND MOTION PRESERVATION SPINAL IMPLANTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080306547 | REVISION SYSTEM FOR A DYNAMIC STABILIZATION AND MOTION PRESERVATION SPINAL IMPLANTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080306548 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION AND MOTION PRESERVATION SPINAL IMPLANTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080306549 | ROD CAPTURE MECHANISM FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION AND MOTION PRESERVATION SPINAL IMPLANTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080312696 | System and Method for Polyaxially Adjustable Bone Anchorage - An implantable bone anchor assembly for fixing an elongated member such as a spinal rod may include a bone anchor, a coupling head configured to receive the bone anchor and the elongated member, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may provide compressive force to simultaneously fix the position of the elongated member and lock out polyaxial rotation of the bone anchor relative to the coupling head. The locking mechanism may include an engagement member with an oblique surface configured to slide along an oblique surface of the coupling head into engagement with the elongated member. The bone anchor may comprise a head portion and a threaded portion which may be coupled with the coupling head and joined together during manufacture. The assembly may further include a pin and/or a collar to retain the bone anchor. The bone anchor may be side-loaded into the coupling head. | 12-18-2008 |
| 20080319488 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACET JOINT REPLACEMENT - A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, a superior implant with a superior articular surface and may include a crosslink extending across a vertebral sagittal plane. The inferior implant may comprise an inferior strut, and a polyaxially adjustable, lockable mechanism which may couple the inferior articular surface with a first end of the inferior strut, and couple the inferior articular surface with the crosslink. A second end of the inferior strut may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable, lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. The superior implant may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. The positions of the inferior articular surface and the first end of the inferior strut are independently translatable along a medial-lateral axis of the vertebra prior to lockout by the lockable mechanism. The crosslink may be placed into the lockable mechanism from a posterior approach. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090012567 | Locking assembly for securing a rod member in a receiver part for use in spinal or trauma surgery, bone anchoring device with such a locking assembly and tool therefor - A locking assembly for securing a rod in a receiving part of a bone anchoring device includes a first locking element having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis of rotation and an outer surface provided with an external thread, a coaxial bore passing entirely through said first locking element and an internal thread provided at said bore, a second locking element having a: longitudinal axis of rotation and an outer surface with an external thread cooperating with the internal thread of said first locking element. The first locking element has a recess between the first end and the second end, that defines a circumferentially closed wall portion. The interior of the wall portion has a longitudinally extending structure for engagement with a tool. Furthermore, a tool is provided which has sections which can be independently engaged with the first and second locking element, respectively. | 01-08-2009 |
| 20090076552 | VERTEBRAL ANCHORING DEVICE - A vertebral anchoring device includes connectors ( | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090105763 | CROSS CONNECTOR APPARATUS FOR SPINAL FIXATION RODS - A cross connector apparatus for retaining a pair of spinal rods in spaced relation, including: a middle portion having a first end, a second end, and an extendable member which is able to extend beyond the second end a specified amount; a first side portion positioned adjacent to the first end of the middle portion, wherein the first side portion is rotatably coupled to the middle portion in at least a first plane; and, a second side portion positioned adjacent to the second end of the middle portion, wherein the second side portion is rotatably coupled to the extendable member in at least a second plane. The first and second side portions each further include a mechanism for both retaining the respective side portion in a desired position with respect to the middle portion and retaining a spinal rod member to the respective side portion. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090105764 | Dynamic stabilization member with fin support and solid core extension - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate segments, each segment having at least one and up to a plurality of integral fins axially extending therefrom; a core extension integral with one of the elongate segments and slidingly received in the other elongate segment; a molded spacer that substantially surrounds the fins and may partially or substantially surround the abutment plates; an optional bumper; an optional crimp ring; and optional sleeves having abutment plates and fins for placement between elongate segments. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090125065 | Vertebra connection member and nut driver - A vertebra connection member has: a screw member that is screwed in a vertebra; a connector member that connects a rod and the screw member; a first nut member that fixes the screw member and connector member; a second nut member that prevents the loosening of the first nut member; and a fixing member that fixes the rod and connector member. The first and second nut members are formed to have a cylindrical shape; and engagement concave portions of a concave curved shape are formed in the outer peripheral surface of the nut members from the rear ends in the screw-in direction to the front ends in the screw-in direction, in the direction in which the nut members are screwed onto the second male portion. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090182380 | SPRING-LOADED DYNAMIC PEDICLE SCREW ASSEMBLY - An assembly that includes a fixator component, a clamping mechanism, a screw head, a load sharing mechanism, and a blocker. The fixator component further includes a bulbous end, a neck portion, and a threaded end. The clamping mechanism is positioned around the neck portion of the fixator component. The load sharing mechanism is positioned in between the screw head and the bone fixator component. The screw head further includes a pair of diametrically opposed arms, a socket and a slot. The socket is positioned between the pair of arms and the slot is positioned above the socket. The socket is dimensioned and configured to house the bulbous end of the fixator component. The load sharing mechanism provides tensile resistance to the screw head and the blocker is adapted to engage the screw head. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090198279 | Spinal Rod Link Reducer - The present invention includes a rod link reducer of a spinal fixation system that includes a first and a second spinal rod manipulator; a first spinal rod manipulator joint connected to the first spinal rod manipulator and a second spinal rod manipulator joint connected to the second spinal rod manipulator; a first and a second translatable transverse shaft connected to the first and second joints, respectively; and a universal reducer connected to both the first and second translatable transverse shafts, wherein the universal reducer, the shafts and the linkers provide movement and temporary fixation of a spine that has been manipulated into a final position during spinal surgery. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090204155 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH HEADLESS PEDICLE SCREW - A polyaxial bone anchor has a headless anchor member (e.g., a screw, hook, or other structure for attaching to bone) that allows the size of the bone anchor to be small. A locking element securely snap-fits over the headless anchor member such that inadvertent separation from the anchor member is unlikely. When the anchor member is attached to the locking element and the locking element is seated within the anchor head of the bone anchor, the headless anchoring member can polyaxially rotate about a central axis of the bone anchor before being locked in place. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090216278 | Method and device for stabilization - A method and device for percutaneously mating a spinal connecting rod to spinal screws utilizing guide wires. Numerous embodiments are described whereby a connecting rod is passed over a guide wire through the skin and into the heads of spinal screws. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090216279 | ARTIFICIAL FACET JOINT AND METHOD - An artificial facet joint includes a pair of connectors, each having a first device connecting member having structure for slidably engaging a rod, and a second device connecting member having an aperture for slidably engaging a screw. The first and second device connecting members are rotatably engaged to one another. A spinal implant and spinal implant screws are also provided. The first device connecting member of each connector is slidably engaged to the rod and the second device connecting member of each connector is slidably engaged to a respective one of the pair of spinal implant screws, whereby the screws can be engaged to the pedicles on one lateral side of adjacent vertebrae and the rod and connectors will limit movement of the joint. Another artificial facet joint can be provided on another lateral side of the adjacent vertebrae. A transverse member can be connected between the rods on each lateral side of the vertebrae. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090240287 | BONE FIXATION DEVICE - A bone fixation device comprising: first and second screw receiving members, each member having an aperture extending therethrough for receiving a screw; and a plastically deformable connecting arm extending between the screw receiving members along a long axis defined by the first and second screw receiving members; the arm being adapted to be more pliable than the screw receiving members such that (a) on twisting the device about its long axis the arm twists before the screw receiving members deform; and (b) on bending the device along its long axis the arm bends before the screw receiving members deform. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090254124 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURING AN OBJECT TO BONE AND/OR FOR STABILIZING BONE - A surgical system comprising:
| 10-08-2009 |
| 20090254125 | Top Loading Polyaxial Spine Screw Assembly With One Step Lockup - A top loading polyaxial spinal rod screw assembly is configured for simultaneous or one step lockup of angular orientation of a rod holder portion of the screw assembly relative to a bone screw and of a spinal rod within the rod holder portion of the screw assembly. The spinal rod and the angular orientation of the rod holder holding the spinal rod are thus fixed upon receipt of a lockup component of the present assembly. Components of the present spinal rod screw assembly cooperate to allow reception of a spinal rod in a rod holder that is adapted for pivotal retention on a bone screw and to lock or fix the spinal rod within the rod holder while also locking or fixing the angular orientation of the rod holder relative to the bone screw upon receipt of a lockup cap component of the screw assembly in the rod holder. In one form, the present screw assembly is defined by a three-piece polyaxial screw head assembly for a bone screw. The three-piece polyaxial screw head assembly includes a spine rod holder or head configured for pivotal connection with the bone screw, a head insert configured for reception in the spine rod holder, and a lockup (end) cap configured for reception in the spine rod holder. The lockup cap is configured to interact with the head insert to fix an angular position or orientation of the spine rod holder relative to the bone screw at the same time as fixing a spinal rod that has been received in the spine rod holder relative to the spine rod holder. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090259258 | VERTEBRAL DISC TENSIONING DEVICE - A vertebral disc tensioning device that restores the loss of disc height as a result of disc degeneration and other factors. The device includes first and second pedicle screws each including a screw body portion and a ball head. The device also includes first and second screw head portions each including an internal threaded bore where the first screw is inserted in the first screw head portion and is pivotally mounted relative thereto and the second screw is inserted in the second screw head portion and is pivotally mounted thereto. The device also includes a rigid connector that couples the first and second screw head portions where bolts are threaded through the connector and into the internal threaded bores of the first and second screw head portions. The device also includes a spring assembly offset from the rigid connector that applies a bias to separate the pedicle screws. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090264933 | ANCHORS FOR SECURING A ROD TO A VERTEBRAL MEMBER - Anchors to secure a rod to a vertebral member. The anchors may include a fastener with a distal end adapted to be connected to the vertebral member and a proximal end. A receiver may be operatively connected to the proximal end of the fastener. The receiver may include a channel sized to receive the rod. The receiver may further include at least one convex section that extends inward towards a longitudinal axis of the rod. The receiver may be formed in a unitary one-piece construction. The anchor may also include a securing member that connects to the receiver and may include a lower edge that extends into the channel and may contact the rod. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090275985 | Dynamic stabilization assembly having pre-compressed spacers with differential displacements - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core extending through at least two elastic spacers and at least one outer sleeve or trolley. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. The spacers have differing durometers and/or geometries, resulting in greater axial movement of the sleeve in one direction than in an opposite direction. The spacers are compressed prior to attachment to the bone anchors. | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090281574 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090306719 | STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR DRIVING A PEDICLE SCREW WITH AN ATTACHED SUPPORT ROD FOR SPINAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS - Improvements for a pedicle screw that is pre-connected to a support rod by an articulation joint so that the pedicle screw can be installed with the support rod attached to it. A first driven interlock element is joined to the pedicle screw. A driver interlock element is formed at a first end of the support rod and is matingly engageable with the driven interlock element of the pedicle screw. The support rod is retained in the joint in a manner that allows it to be pivoted between a position that is substantially coaxial with the pedicle screw and an installed position transverse to the pedicle screw. The support rod, when aligned coaxially with the pedicle screw is able to slide axially within the articulation joint to permit engagement of the driver interlock element of the rod with the driven interlock element of the screw. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090306720 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW - A fastening system for bone screws used in spinal fixation systems for reshaping the spine of a patient. The bone screw has threads on one end for anchoring in the spine. The other end has a spherical head with a multi sided recess formed therein for engagement with an appropriate driving tool. The system includes a stabilizing rod, a saddle member, a cap member and a set screw with at least one bone screw having a outer diameter that exceeds the diameter of a cavity formed in the saddle, wherein placement of the bone screw is made possible by matching the threads of the set screw to the threads of the bone screw. The head of the bone screw providing proper positioning of the stabilization rod within the patient. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090318970 | Spinal Rod Connectors Configured to Retain Spinal Rods of Varying Diameters - A spinal rod connector is configured to accommodate a range of spinal rod diameters. The present spinal rod connector may take the form of a spinal rod screw head, hook, spinal rod connector or a spinal rod holder. The spinal rod connector has spinal rod reception slots whose sides narrow towards a bottom of the slot. The narrowing of the sides provides a wedging effect such that a spinal rod is wedged into place during locking. The narrowing sides of the slots thus provide for the accommodation of varying rod diameters. The spinal connector also provides significant improvement in spinal rod torsional resistance compared to prior art radial shaped slots. In one form, the spinal rod reception slots are essentially V-shaped. However, other shapes following the principles of the present invention may be used and are contemplated. The width of the slot sides and the rate of curvature of the slot sides thus determine the range of spinal rod diameters that are accommodated by the spinal rod reception slots and therefore the spinal rod connector. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090318971 | INTERVERTEBRAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - An intervertebral stabilization system for at least three vertebrae comprising
| 12-24-2009 |
| 20090318972 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A spinal implant tool set includes end guide tools having flexible back wall flaps that receive opposite ends of the rod and intermediate guide tools that hold the rod in intermediate locations between the end guide tools. Both the end and intermediate guide tools include an attachment structure for operably connecting the guide tool to a bone screw. A multi-function installation tool and a bone screw driver each mate and cooperate with the guide tools. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090326586 | PERCUTANEOUS SPINAL ROD INSERTION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A spinal rod implantation system may be used with pedicle screws to be secured to respective pedicles of a patient's spine, each pedicle screw having a spinal rod channel therethrough. The system may include extenders each including an inner member having a distal end, and an outer member surrounding the inner member and being slidable relative thereto to permit removable coupling of the distal end to a respective pedicle screw. The inner and outer members may include respective features defining a first joint permitting at least partial relative rotation to provide a first degree of rotational freedom. The system may further include extender heads each pivotally coupled to a proximal end of a respective outer member to define a second joint providing a second degree of rotational freedom. A spinal rod insertion assembly may be coupled to the extender heads for guiding the spinal rod through the spinal rod channels. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090326587 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE - A bone anchoring device has an anchoring element, a receiving portion, and a pressure element. The anchoring element includes a shank to be anchored in a bone or a vertebra and a head, the head having an exterior surface with a spherical segment-shaped portion. The shank and the head are separate parts. The receiving portion includes a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, a longitudinal axis passing through the two ends, a bore coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and a first region adjacent to the second end for receiving a spherical segment-shaped section of the head. The pressure element exerts pressure on the head to lock the head in the receiving portion. The head has a hollow inner portion to receive a free end portion of the shank and wherein the head and the end portion are formed such that the end portion can be elastically clamped by the head. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100010544 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC VERTEBRAL STABILIZATION - A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100030273 | VERSATILE POLYAXIAL CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - Versatile polyaxial connector assemblies are provided for a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system include versatile polyaxial connectors in addition to bone anchors, a deflection system and a vertical rod system. The bone anchors connect the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The vertical rod system spans different levels of the construct. The versatile polyaxial connectors include connectors mounted coaxially and/or offset with the bone anchors to adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and bone anchors allowing for safe, effective and efficient placement of the construct relative to the spine. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100030274 | DYNAMIC SPINAL ROD AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A dynamic spinal rod for connecting levels of a dynamic stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization and load-sharing. The dynamic spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The dynamic spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100030275 | CONFIGURABLE DYNAMIC SPINAL ROD AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A configurable dynamic spinal rod for connecting levels of a dynamic stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization and load-sharing. The dynamic spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The dynamic spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. A configurable lock is provided which can selectably lock an angle between the dynamic spinal rod and a dynamic bone anchor. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100036425 | ANTI-TORSION SPINE FIXATION DEVICE - An anti-torsion spine fixation device includes an elongated member spanning from one vertebra to another and connected to each vertebra. The anti-torsion spine fixation device may span more than one vertebral level, but is fixed bilaterally to the most cephalad and caudad vertebrae. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100036426 | VERSATILE OFFSET POLYAXIAL CONNECTOR AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A versatile offset connector for connecting components of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The anchor system anchors the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The connection system includes coaxial connectors and offset connectors which adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and anchor system allowing for appropriate, efficient and convenient placement of the anchor system relative to the spine. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100036427 | LOAD-SHARING BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND METHOD FOR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant member. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor has splines on the outside of the housing to facilitate installation and the secure attachment of spine stabilization components. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100036428 | DEVICE FOR STABILIZING BONES - A device pivotally connects two stabilizing parts to a bone. The device comprises at least one bone fixing element with a central axis, an anchor part designed to be fixed in or onto the bone, and a head part that can be attached to both stabilizing parts. The two stabilizing parts are located axially one below the other. Each stabilizing part has a cavity there through running coaxially to the central axis. A clamping element, which can be elastically deformed transversely to the central axis, is rotatably mounted in each cavity. The clamping element has a central bore running coaxially to the central axis for receiving the head part. The device comprises at least one wedge or cone that can be axially clamped in the central bores, enabling the head part of the bone fixing element to be removably fixed in at least one of the stabilizing parts. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100049253 | BOTTOM LOADING CONNECTOR FOR ATTACHING A SPINAL ROD TO A VERTEBRAL MEMBER - Connectors for attaching a spinal rod to an anchor. The connectors may include a receiver with a rod-receiving opening on a bottom side that leads into a receiver passage sized to receive the spinal rod. A elongate member may extend through an opening on the top side of the receiver, and may include a cut-out to receive the spinal rod. A grommet may be operatively connected to the receiver and include a grommet passage to receive the anchor. A disk may be positioned between the receiver and the grommet and may include an angled surface that is positioned on a side of the receiver passage. The elongate member may be movable along the first axis between extended and retracted positions with the cut-out positioned closer to the second axis in the retracted position than in the extended position. Moving the elongate member from the extended position to the retracted position with the spinal rod received in the cut-out may cause the disk to move along the second axis towards the grommet passage to fix the first axis in spaced relation relative to the grommet passage. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100049254 | STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR THE DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF VERTEBRAE OR BONES AND ROD LIKE ELEMENT FOR SUCH A STABILIZATION DEVICE - A stabilization device includes a first bone anchoring element, a second bone anchoring element, and a rod-shaped element for connecting the first and the second bone anchoring elements. The rod-shaped element includes a curved section, that undergoes an elastic deformation under the action of a force acting on the rod-shaped element via an anchoring element. The rod-shaped element and the anchoring elements are arranged so that deformation occurs when a force acts in a main direction of motion of bone parts or vertebra relative to each other, whereas a deformation is suppressed when a force acts in a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the main direction of motion. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100063545 | POLYAXIAL SCREW ASSEMBLY - A polyaxial screw assembly includes an internal load dampening mechanism for sharing and dampening loads between at least one screw member and at least one rod member interconnected by the assembly. A method of interconnecting the orthopedic screw with the rod by dampening with a body member interconnecting the screw to the rod. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100082067 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO STABLIZE A SPINAL COLUMN INCLUDING A SPINOLAMINAR LOCKING PLATE - A system adapted to be implanted in a patient to stabilize a spinal column of the patient comprises an anchoring plate having a shape generally conformal with at least a portion of a lamina associated with a targeted vertebra of the spinal column. The anchoring plate is securable to the targeted vertebra by two or more screws. A mounting bracket adapted to receive an secure a rod is connected with the anchoring plate. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100087864 | FASTENER ASSEMBLY THAT FASTENS TO POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW - A fastener assembly including an existing polyaxial pedicle screw that has been previously installed in a spinal structure, the polyaxial pedicle screw including a polyaxial head to which a prosthetic member is secured, a fastening portion fastened to the polyaxial head over the prosthetic member, and a connector element that extends from the fastening portion, the connector element being connected to another spinal structure. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100087865 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE AND STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR BONE PARTS OR VERTEBRAE COMPRISING SUCH A BONE ANCHORING DEVICE - A stabilization device for bone parts or vertebrae includes two bone anchoring devices for anchoring in the bone parts or vertebrae. At least one of the bone anchoring devices includes an anchoring element with an anchoring section for anchoring in a bone part or a vertebra and a head, and a receiving part for receiving a stabilization rod. The receiving part has a seat for receiving the head so that the head can pivot with respect to the receiving part. The stabilization device includes a first pressure element which is movable in the receiving part so that it can be pressed onto the head to lock the angular position of the head. The stabilization device includes at least two stabilization rod sections, and at least two guiding channels within the receiving part which have a distance from each other for guiding through the at least two stabilization rod sections so that the rod sections do not touch each other. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100087866 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY PEDICLE SCREW SYSTEM - The present invention provides a minimally invasive surgery pedicle screw system, including: a plurality of slotted guides that are selectively inserted through one or more surgical incisions; a plurality of pedicle screws selectively coupled to the plurality of slotted guides that are selectively secured to one or more bony anatomical structures; a pendulum mechanism selectively translatably and pivotably coupled to one of the plurality of slotted guides; and a connecting rod selectively translatably and pivotably coupled to one of the plurality of slotted guides; wherein the pendulum mechanism is selectively coupled to the connecting rod. The connecting rod is selectively secured to one or more of the plurality of pedicle screws. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100094348 | BONE ANCHORING ELEMENT AND STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR BONES, IN PARTICULAR FOR THE SPINAL COLUMN - A bone anchoring element includes an anchoring section for anchoring in the bone and a receiving part connected to the anchoring section. The receiving part includes an opening suitable for accommodation of a stabilization rod having a rod axis, the opening being limited along the rod axis by two side walls. The side walls include guides orientated along the rod axis for guiding at least one connection rod therethrough. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100094349 | Multi-Axial Connection System - A system and method for a multi-axial connection of an apparatus to bone. The system may include a fastener inserted into a body and a head of the fastener held within a chamber of the body through a combination of a retention ring, a pressure cap, a rod, and a compression element. The compression element applies force to the rod which, in turn, pushed on the pressure cap. The force on the pressure cap urges it against the head of the fastener and pushed it against the retention ring. The force on the retention ring causes it to expand to the walls of the chamber. Once the ring can no longer expand within the chamber, the head of the fastener is wedged between the retention ring and the pressure cap. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100100130 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CORRECTING A SPINAL DEFORMITY - A device and method for correcting a spinal deformity are provided. A spinal implant for correcting a spinal deformity includes a multipoint connector that connects to at least one vertebra of a spine at a plurality of locations and a force directing device that applies a force to the vertebra through the multipoint connector. The force directing device may include a rod which extends generally along an axis of the spine and a force directing member which is adjustably coupled to both the rod and the multipoint connector and which applies a corrective force to the at least one vertebra. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100106193 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALIGNING VERTEBRAE IN THE AMELIORATION OF ABERRANT SPINAL COLUMN DEVIATION CONDITIONS IN PATIENTS REQUIRING THE ACCOMODATION OF SPINAL COLUMN GROWTH OR ELONGATION - A system and method for ameliorating spinal column anomalies, such as scoliosis, while accommodating growth of juvenile patients, includes pedicle screws and a spinal rod of non-circular cross section. Each pedicle screw includes spinal rod engagement mean for achieving a slide-only engagement between each segment of said spinal rod that is respectively engaged with the pedicle screw. Pedicle screws are thereby allowed to slide longitudinally along the spinal rod as attached vertebrae move during growth, while movement in other directions is arrested in order to preserve a proper orientation of involved vertebrae to maintain scoliotic correction in three dimensions. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100114168 | ANCHOR WITH NON-THREADED SECURING MECHANISM TO ATTACH AN ELONGATED MEMBER TO A BONE - An anchor with a non-threaded securing mechanism for attaching an elongated member to a bone. The anchor includes a receiver, shaft, and securing mechanism. The receiver includes spaced-apart arms that form a channel sized to receive the elongated member. The shaft extends from the receiver and is configured to engage with the bone. The securing mechanism, including a base and an insert, attaches to the receiver to capture the elongated member in the channel. The base is configured to attach to the arms and includes an aperture that receives the insert. The insert extends through the aperture and may contact against the elongated member. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100114169 | FLEXIBLE LINKING PIECE FOR STABILISING THE SPINE - Embodiments described herein relate to a connecting member for maintaining the spacing between at least two anchor members screwed into vertebrae and methods for stabilizing the spine using a connecting member. One embodiment of a connecting member can include a first rigid portion formed of a first material, a second rigid portion formed of the first material and a connecting body comprising a second material that is more elastically deformable than the first material. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100114170 | MULTI-PLANAR TAPER LOCK SCREW WITH INCREASED ROD FRICTION - A spinal fixation device includes a coupling, a pedicle screw, and a collet. The coupling has an opening extending therethrough. The pedicle screw has a head mounted to a shank that is positionable within a first vertebral body. The collet is receivable in the opening of the coupling and engagable with the head of the pedicle screw. The collet is selectively positionable between a first position and a second position where the collet engages a spinal rod and prevents one or both of axial and rotational movement of the spinal rod. The collet is adapted to facilitate the connection of the spinal rod to a second vertebral body. The collet defines a saddle having one or more locking features for engaging the spinal rod. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100114171 | MULTI-PLANAR SPINAL FIXATION ASSEMBLY WITH LOCKING ELEMENT - A spinal fixation assembly includes a spinal rod, a first spinal fixation device, and a locking element. The spinal rod defines a longitudinal axis. The first spinal fixation device includes a coupling, a screw, and a collet. The coupling has an opening extending therethrough. The screw is mounted to the coupling and positionable within a first vertebral body. The collet is receivable in the opening of the coupling and defines a saddle for engaging the spinal rod. The locking element is mounted to the spinal rod and is configured to prevent axial translation of the spinal rod in one or both directions along the longitudinal axis thereof. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100121381 | SURGICAL METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING SPINAL STENOSIS AND STABILIZATION OF VERTEBRAE - Disclosed is a prosthetic device for distracting spinal column segments in the lumbar and the lumbar-sacral regions comprising a first engagement arm, a second engagement arm, a coupling mechanism and a locking mechanism. The first and the second engagement arms are configured to receive a lamina portion of the spinal column segment. The coupling mechanism is disposed between the first and the second engagement arms and is configured to allow the device to transition from an unextended configuration to an extended configuration in order to distract the spinal column segment. The locking mechanism is configured to maintain the extended configuration of the device. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100121382 | VERTICAL INLINE PLATE - A spinal plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface adapted to contact bone. A plurality of holes extend from the upper surface to the lower surface through the plate which is configured and adapted to receive bone fasteners for fixing the spinal plate to bone. At least one set screw receiving hole adjacent from each one of the plurality of holes, the set screw receiving hole configured to adapt with a set screw. The lower surface of the spinal plate comprises a ridge that protrudes from the underside of the plate and encloses the plurality of holes spaced inward from the perimeter of the spinal plate. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100145388 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The spine stabilization prosthesis incorporates a bone anchor having a deflectable post and a compound spinal rod which provide for load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a bone screw. The compound spinal rod includes a coupling mounted to the deflectable post and connected by a pivoting joint to a rod. The combined motions of the ball-joint and the pivoting joint support a range of motion of adjacent vertebrae which closely approximates the natural range of motion of the spine. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100145389 | ROD INSERTER AND ROD WITH REDUCED DIAMETER END - A pedicle screw assembly including a bone fastener having a lower end for engaging bone and an upper end remote from the lower end; a head having a rod-receiving channel attached to the upper end of said bone fastener; a spinal rod insertable into the rod-receiving channel of said head, said spinal rod having an outer surface extending between first and second ends thereof, wherein at least one of the first and second ends has a reduced diameter section. A spinal rod having an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end thereof; wherein the outer surface of said spinal rod has a reduced diameter section at least one of the first and second ends. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100145390 | Systems, Devices and Methods for Stabilization of the Spinal Column - A system for stabilization of the spinal column, including an elongate support member extending along an axis and a plurality of anchor members configured for anchoring to respective vertebrae. A first of the anchor members is engaged to the support member in a manner that substantially prevents axial movement of the support member relative to the first anchor member, and a second of the anchor members is engaged to the support member in a manner that allows substantially unconstrained axial movement of the support member relative to the second anchor member. In a further embodiment, a third of the anchor members is engaged to the support member in a manner that also allows substantially unconstrained axial movement of the support member relative to the third anchor member, with the second and third anchor members positioned on opposite sides of the first anchor member. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100160969 | Dynamic Fixation Device and Method of Use - A dynamic fixation device is provided that allows the vertebrae to which it is attached to move in flexion within the normal physiological limits of motion, while also providing structural support that limits the amount of translation motion beyond normal physiological limits. The present invention includes a flexible portion and two ends that are adapted for connection to pedicle screws. In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the normal axis of rotation of the vertebrae is substantially duplicated by the dynamic fixation device. The flexible portion of the dynamic fixation device can include a geometric shape and/or a hinge portion. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100168795 | LOAD-SHARING BONE ANCHOR HAVING A NATURAL CENTER OF ROTATION AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant sleeve. The force/deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. When implanted the pivot point for the deflectable post is placed close to the instantaneous center of rotation of the spine. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168796 | Bone anchoring member with clamp mechanism - A pedicle screw for insertion into the pedicle portion of a vertebra and having at its exposed end a threaded rod connected in a generally parallel orientation to the longitudinal axis of the pedicle screw but laterally offset from the longitudinal axis of the pedicle screw. The threaded rod may be secured directly to the screw but is preferable provided with a collar that is captured by an enlarged screw head to seat, orient and retain the threaded rod in position. A locking arm and retaining nut are provided over the threaded rod for affixing a spinal rod to the pedicle screw substantially over and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the screw. A yoke may be provided in the collar also to receive and secure the rod. An alternate cap and clamping elements enable the incorporation of cross links between multiple screws and/or rods. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168797 | Intervertebral Connecting Device - The invention concerns a device comprising at least a fixed element ( | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100174319 | Dynamic spinal stabilization assembly with elastic bumpers and locking limited travel closure mechanisms - A dynamic stabilization assembly includes a core, typically in the form of a tensioned cord, at least one pair of bone anchors, a spacer surrounding the core located between the bone anchors, at least one elastic bumper and at least one fixing or blocking member. The core is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone anchors, the spacer and the bumper. The bumper is compressed. Bone screws of the assembly include closure structures that lock against the bone screw independent of any fixing or sliding of the core with respect to the bone screw. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100179597 | CRANIOSPINAL FUSION METHOD AND APPARATUS - A spinal stabilization system that may be used to fix craniocervical junction. The system includes a cranial spinal attachment system that anchors one or more surgical instruments to a cranial surface using at least one cranial clamp and cranial fastener. The cranial spinal attachment system may be positioned along a perimeter of a cranial defect. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100191288 | ADJUSTABLE SPINAL IMPLANT DEVICE AND METHOD - A spine implant, in particular a stabilization or distraction device, is provided with an adjustable length. The implant has first and second portions for coupling to a first bony portion of a first vertebra and a second bony portion of a second vertebra, respectively, where the second bony portion is located at an oblique angle to the first bony portion. The spinal implant permits movement between the first bony portion and the second bony portion and is adjustable to change an amount of said movement between said first bony portion and said second bony portion after the implant is implanted. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100191289 | ROD ATTACHMENT FOR HEAD TO HEAD CROSS CONNECTOR - Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100191290 | SPINAL STABILIZING SYSTEM - A spinal stabilizing system includes a collar having a tubular sidewall with an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface at least partially bounding a longitudinal passage extending therethrough. A shoulder radially inwardly projects from a second end of the sidewall so as to at last partially encircle the longitudinal passage. A pair of spaced apart channels transversely extend through the sidewall at the first end thereof. The system further includes a screw having a threaded portion and an enlarged head mounted on the end thereof, the head of the screw resting against the shoulder of the collar so that the head can pivot on the shoulder, a locking slot being formed on the head of the screw. A pin is secured to the collar and projects into the locking slot on the head of the screw such rotation of the collar facilitates rotation of the screw. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100198260 | OUTRIGGER - The present invention relates to an outrigger for securing a longitudinal spinal rod, preferably a horizontally offset spinal rod, with respect to a bone anchor. The outrigger may include a housing having a first throughbore to receive the bone anchor and a second throughbore to receive the spinal rod, a cam for surrounding the bone anchor, the cam being disposed within the first throughbore, and a collet having a passage for surrounding the spinal rod, the collet being disposed within the second throughbore. The cam may be moveable from a first position to a second position such that, in the first position, the spinal rod and bone anchor are free to move with respect to the housing and in the second position, the spinal rod and collet are secured with respect to the housing. The collet may be moveable between a first configuration to a second configuration such that movement of the cam from the first position to the second position causes the collet to move from the first configuration to the second configuration. The cam preferably may move into contact with the collet when the cam is moved into the second position. The collet preferably may be compressible into the second configuration. The cam may also include an intermediate position wherein in the intermediate position, the spinal rod is free to translate with respect to the housing but is prevented from articulating with respect thereto. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100198261 | ADJUSTABLE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEMS - A spinal stabilization system includes a stabilization member with opposite end portions lying along a longitudinal axis and an adjustment mechanism between the end portions that allows the end portions to be moved toward and away from one another along the longitudinal axis. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100204734 | OSTEOSYNTHESIS SYSTEM FOR CONNECTING AT LEAST TWO VERTEBRAE - An osteosynthesis system ( | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100204735 | Wide Angulation Coupling Members For Bone Fixation System - A coupling assembly is provided with a yoke device that allows an anchor member secured thereto to rotate in a turret-like manner with respect to an elongate member secured by the yoke in addition to allowing the anchor member to pivot away from the central axis of the yoke. A first yoke member holds the elongate member and is rotatably coupled to a second yoke member that holds a bone anchor. A combination of rotation of the second yoke member and pivoting of the anchor member allows the anchor to be positioned in a wide variety of orientations with respect to the yoke device and elongate member. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100204736 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR BONES, IN PARTICULAR FOR VERTEBRAE - A dynamic stabilization device for bones, in particular vertebrae, is made with two bone anchoring elements and a rigid rod with a longitudinal axis connecting them. An elastic element is inserted between the two bone anchoring elements. It acts on the bone anchoring elements to exert a force in a direction of the longitudinal axis. Each bone anchoring element has a first section to be anchored in a bone and a second section to be connected to the rod. At least one of the bone anchoring elements is fixedly connected to the rod to prevent translational movement of the rod relative to it. Further, at least one of the bone anchoring elements is a polyaxial bone screw. Also disclosed is a method for stabilizing vertebrae adjacent to a defective intervertebral disc. A dynamic stabilization device is provided. The anchoring elements are attached to two vertebrae on opposite sides of the defective intervertebral disc. Then, the bone anchoring elements are alligned to connect the rod therebetween with the elastic element positioned between the bone anchoring elements. Finally, one of the bone anchoring elements is connected fixedly to the rod to prevent translational movement of the rod relative to it. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100211107 | FACET JOINT PROSTHETIC REPLACEMENT AND METHOD - The present disclosure provides prosthesis, methods, and kits for replacing a facet joint, in particular prosthesis, methods, and kits for replacing a spinal motion segment comprising a facet joint. The prosthesis includes a first and second member that interlock to form a sliding joint. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100211108 | MODULUS PLATING SYSTEM AND METHOD - In one embodiment, a modular system for cervical fixation is disclosed. The system comprises a first plate operable to be attached to a first vertebra and a second plate operable to be attached to a second vertebra. A fixation means for connecting the first v-plate to the second v-plate is provided. The fixation means can be any one of a number of devices including a pair of beams that connect to the first and second plate, an attachment plate that attaches the first and second plates and an attachment plate that has an elastic middle portion. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100217325 | EXPANDABLE SPINAL SUPPORT DEVICE WITH ATTACHABLE MEMBERS AND METHODS OF USE - Expandable support devices for tissue repair are disclosed. The devices can be used to repair hard or soft tissue, such as bone or vertebral discs. A method of repairing tissue is also disclosed. Surgical devices and methods for adjusting (e.g., removing, repositioning, resizing) deployed orthopedic expandable support devices are also disclosed. The expandable support devices can be engaged and surgically implanted by an engagement device and affixed to bone to provide stability and support for the devices. The expandable support devices are attachable to spinal fixation devices such as screws or plates, and may be used to support such devices when placed in weakened or damaged areas of bone. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100222822 | Posterior Fixation System - A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a pair of upright portions that define a channel. The channel is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod, and the saddle member can include a hole to receive the anchoring member. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. The anchoring member in one embodiment is a screw coupled to the hole of the saddle, and in another embodiment, the anchoring member is a hook. The offset member may be coupled to the saddle member to allow for offset connection of rods. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The cross-link connector has an integrally formed cylindrical member that couples a pair of coupling portions together. The cylindrical member can be bent along multiple axes. The occipital plate secures the rods to the occipital bone of the skull. The occipital plate has a cross-shaped plate with a plurality of apertures defined in the plate and at least one saddle member coupled to the plate. Alternatively, the occipital rod can be secured to the occipital bone. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100228292 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION - A dynamic stabilization system including a dynamic rod with a first and second coupler assemblies, a pre-tensioned central cord and a flexible bumper, which are coupled to the bony structures of the spine by way of pedicle screws for use in spinal fixation surgery. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100228293 | Pedicle Screw Fixation System and Method for Use of Same - A pedicle screw fixation system and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a tulip is provided for holding a head of a pedicle screw substantially along a longitudinal axis. The tulip includes opposing first and second U-shaped receiving slots aligned along a transverse axis. A rod is received by the opposing first and second U-shaped receiving slots. A coupling collar includes a plurality of resilient fingers circumferentially disposed therearound such that a snap fit engagement with the head of the pedicle screw formed. The coupling collar includes a first deformable face operable for contact with the rod. A set screw is for adapted for driving engagement through the tulip along the longitudinal axis such that a second deformable face is positioned for contact with the rod. The first and second deformable faces conform to the shape of the rod in response to forceful engagement therewith. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100228294 | ANTERIOR PLATING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Systems and methods for stabilizing the spine are provided. For stabilizing the L5-S1 junction, the system includes a plate that has a generally triangular shape with an upper node and a pair of lower nodes. The upper node has a hole through the plate to receive a screw for passage into the L5 vertebra. The lower nodes each include a hole through the plate to receive screws for passage into the S1 vertebra. The system further includes a plate having a retaining element for preventing backout of screws inserted through the plate. Instruments and methods for attaching the plate to the spinal column are also provided. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100241170 | ANCHOR ASSEMBLY FOR SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM - An anchor assembly for use with a fixation system for stabilizing one or more spinal bone segments by means of an elongated stabilizer includes an anchor base that receives a fastener and includes s a first coupling feature including guide slots and a recessed channel for receiving the elongated stabilizer. The anchor assembly further includes a cap that has a second coupling feature that is complementary to the first coupling feature and includes structures that are laterally received in the base guide slots for mating the cap to the base, as well as a stop element that in combination with the first coupling feature limits the lateral movement of the cap in the guide slots. The cap includes a retaining element that is driven into engagement with the elongated stabilizer so as to lock and retain the elongated stabilizer in place within the anchor assembly. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100241171 | VERTEBRAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS EQUIPMENT - Equipment includes bony anchoring members one or two linking rods, intended to be connected to the anchoring members, and parts for connecting the linking rod(s) to the anchoring members, at least one anchoring member including a proximal threaded stud and a clamping element for assembling a connecting part thereon, the connecting part including a clamping element for immobilizing the linking rod with respect thereto. The connecting part includes a rounded section for hugging a linking rod and two parallel branches having holes enabling engagement on the proximal threaded stud of the anchoring member; and the clamping elements may be engaged coaxially on the proximal threaded stud of the anchoring member, a first clamping element enabling the assembly of the connecting part on this proximal threaded stud and the second clamping element enabling to clamp both branches of this connecting part. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100249846 | VARIABLE HEIGHT, MULTI-AXIAL BONE SCREW ASSEMBLY - A variable height, multi-axial bone screw assembly including a bone screw, a collet, a tulip shaped connector, a crown member, a rod and a set-screw. The bone screw has threads at its lower end and a generally cylindrical shaft at its upper end. The collet has a cylindrically shaped lower end to hold and grasp the bone screw shaft as well as a generally bulb shaped upper end to be received by the tulip shaped connector. By changing the position of the bone screw shaft grasped by the collet, the height of the bone screw vis-à-vis the tulip shaped connector can be varied. All the elements of the bone screw assembly are combined together by placing the collet head, crown member and rod within a central bore of the connector and firmly tightening them in place using the set screw. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100262190 | SPINAL ROD TRANSLATION DEVICE - A rod translation device is described that minimizes the wear between a spinal rod and a bone anchor in a spinal implant. In one embodiment, the rod translation device is a sleeve that is slid onto the outside diameter of the spinal rod. At least one compressible member, such as an O-ring, may be placed within the inside diameter of the sleeve to prevent direct contact of the outside diameter of the spinal rod to the inside diameter of the sleeve. Once the spinal rod is secured within the implant any translation of the spinal rod decreases wear debris between the outside diameter of the spinal rod and the pedicle screw. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100262191 | SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A dynamic stabilization system for use with a spinal motion segment includes a first bone anchor assembly, a second bone anchor assembly, a resilient element, and a sheath. The resilient element includes an end portion engageable with the first bone anchor assembly and a resilient portion engageable with the second bone anchor assembly. The resilient element provides resilient resistance when the first and second bone anchor assemblies are moved toward one another and provides no resistance and is separable from the second bone anchor assembly when the first and second bone anchor assemblies are moved away from one another. The sheath surrounds the resilient portion and articulation surface of the second bone anchor assembly. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100262192 | Systems and Devices for Dynamic Stabilization of the Spine - A dynamic stabilization system for use with a spinal motion segment includes a first bone anchor assembly, a second bone anchor assembly, and a resilient element. The resilient element includes an end portion engageable with the first bone anchor assembly and a resilient portion engageable with the second bone anchor assembly. The resilient element provides resilient resistance when the first and second bone anchor assemblies are moved toward one another and provides no resistance and is separable from the second bone anchor assembly when the first and second bone anchor assemblies are moved away from one another. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100274290 | Position augmenting mechanism - One aspect relates to augmenting positioning of an originally unsecured attachment element with respect to an originally unsecured bridging element. Another aspect relates to a surgical theater mechanism that can be at least partially fabricated at least partially based on position augmenting a first surgical theater element relative to a second surgical theater element. Yet another aspect relates to controlling positioning of a bony element at least partially by augmenting positioning of an originally unsecured attachment element relative to an originally unsecured bridging element. Still another aspect can relate to a shunt tube configured to be augmented secured with respect to a shunt device, at least partially to configure the shunt device into an operable position. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100286731 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE - A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shank to be anchored in a bone or a vertebra and a head, a connection element for connecting at least two anchoring elements, a receiving part having a first end receiving the head, wherein the head is pivotable in the receiving part, and a second end comprising a recess for receiving the connection element, a first pressure element which exerts pressure on the head to lock the head in the receiving part, and a second pressure element which exerts pressure on the connection element to press the connection element against the first pressure element. The contour of the surface of at least the first pressure element or the second pressure element facing the connection element deviates from the contour of the surface of the connection element. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100305613 | Headless Polyaxial Screw System - A headless polyaxial screw system comprises a longitudinal member comprising an outwardly protruding and expandable round bulbous body, a fixation component directly connected to the bulbous body, where the fixation component receives the bulbous body, and a pin engaged within the longitudinal member via a first channel bored through the longitudinal member and contacting the bulbous body causing the bulbous body to outwardly expand. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100305614 | Polyaxial Screw Connection Assembly - A polyaxial screw connection assembly includes a first longitudinal member comprising a bored fastener channel and a first bulbous body; a second longitudinal member comprising a cylindrical body to fit within the fastener channel, and a second bulbous body; a fastener with a bored cylindrical channel, connected to the first longitudinal member and the cylindrical body and securely couples the first longitudinal member to the second longitudinal member; a first fixation component directly connected to the first bulbous body; a second fixation component directly connected to the second bulbous body; a first pin engaged within the first longitudinal member via a bored first channel and contacting the first bulbous body causing the first bulbous body to outwardly expand; and a second pin engaged within the second longitudinal member via a bored second channel and contacting the second bulbous body causing the second bulbous body to outwardly expand. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100305615 | Multi-level Polyaxial Screw Connection Mechanism - A multi-level polyaxial screw connection mechanism includes a bone fixation component and a head component directly connected to the bone fixation component. The head component includes a lower portion comprising at least one lower portion concave socket configured and an upper portion elevated compared with the lower portion. The upper portion comprises at least one upper portion concave socket configured and the lower portion(s) concave socket comprises a volume substantially equal to a volume of the upper portion(s) concave socket. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100305616 | SPINAL FIXATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A spinal fixation device includes a fastener affixable to a vertebral body and an attachment member. The attachment member is adapted for receiving the fastener and engaging a portion of the vertebral body. The fastener includes a shank and a collet. The collet includes a channel for receiving a spinal rod and a locking member. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100312279 | Minimally Invasive Surgical System - A multi-stage minimally invasive surgical procedure and associated instruments are disclosed. First, the surgical site is prepared. After preparation, the bone screws or anchors are attached to the bone. Subsequent to insertion of the screws, a rod or connecting member is positioned within the yoke portion of the bone screw. Caps are then placed in a pre-lock position within the yokes. The bone screws may be compressed together or distracted along the rod or connecting member, thereby setting the final spacing of the bones or bone segments. Finally the caps are moved to a final lock position to fix the screws to the rod or connecting member to maintain the bones in position relative to each other. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100312280 | ANCHOR-IN-ANCHOR SYSTEM FOR USE IN BONE FIXATION - An anchor-in-anchor fixation system is provided for securing underlying structure, such as bone. The fixation system includes a first bone anchor having a shaft for fixation to underlying bone, and a head that defines an internal bore. A second bone anchor extends through the bore and into underlying bone. A fixation assembly is also provided that includes one or more fixation systems coupled to an auxiliary attachment member configured for long bone fixation, spinal fixation, or fixation of other bones as desired. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100312281 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALIGNING VERTEBRAE IN THE AMELIORATION OF ABERRANT SPINAL COLUMN DEVIATION CONDITIONS - A system and method for ameliorating spinal column anomalies, such as scoliosis, includes bone screws which are to be implanted in the pedicle region(s) of individual to-be-derotated vertebrae and in vertebrae to which balancing forces must be applied as the spinal column is manipulated en mass to achieve an over-all correction of the condition. A pedicle screw cluster derotation tool simultaneously engages multiple pedicle screws and transmits manipulative forces to multiple vertebrae to effect a whole-spine correction. Pre-contoured spinal rods are engaged post-derotation to secure the correction. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100318131 | Devices and Methods for Adding an Additional Level of Fixation to an Existing Construct - A method and assembly is provided for linking an additional vertebral construct to an existing spinal construct having at least two bone screws engaged to corresponding vertebrae and connected by a connecting member. The assembly includes a fastener configured to engage a bone screw of the existing construct and to engage a connecting member connected to the bone screw. The assembly further includes a linking member having an elongated portion configured to connect to a bone screw of the additional construct and a mounting structure configured for mounting on the bone screw of the existing construct. A locking member fixes the orientation of the linking member relative to the bone screw and a clamping member locks the linking member and existing connecting member to the bone screw of the existing construct. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100318132 | Spinal Implants and Methods With Extended Multi-Axial Anchor Assemblies - Systems and methods are provided that include a plate member engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a coupling member having a post extending through at least one opening of the plate member and an anchor member pivotally captured in a receiver member of the coupling member below a lower surface of the plate member. A locking member secures the plate member to the coupling member. The coupling member includes an extended post with a proximal removable portion. The extended post facilitates placement of the plate member in position relative to the anchor assembly when engaged to the patient and be employed to reduce the plate member toward the anchor assembly when engaged to a vertebra. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100324599 | REVISION CONNECTOR FOR SPINAL CONSTRUCTS - An extender system is configured to couple a vertebral bone anchor that has been previously implanted in a vertebra, or is newly implantable in a vertebra, to an adjacent bone, which can be an additional spinal level or an occiput, for example. The extender system includes an extension member having a body and an engagement member coupled to the body. The extension member defines an aperture extending through the engagement member. A screw is configured to attach the extension member to the vertebral bone anchor. The extension member can be fastened to the adjacent bone. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100324600 | UNIDIRECTIONAL ROTATORY PEDICLE SCREW AND SPINAL DEFORMITY CORRECTION DEVICE FOR CORRECTION OF SPINAL DEFORMITY IN GROWING CHILDREN - A scoliosis correction device includes a first fixed anchor that is adapted to be secured to be secured to a vertebra of a spine and a second fixed anchor that is adapted to be secured to be secured to a vertebra of a spine. A rotatory anchor includes a head portion, a shank portion that extends from the head portion and is adapted to be secured to a vertebra of a spine, and a sprocket that is supported on the head portion for rotational movement relative thereto. A cable extends from the first fixed anchor to the rotatory pedicle screw to the second fixed anchor. The rotatory anchor may be configured to allow unidirectional movement of the sprocket relative to the head portion. A rigid member may extend between the fixed anchor and an intermediate anchor. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100331884 | SPINAL CORRECTION TENSIONING SYSTEM - A vertebral column correction system for correcting a spinal deformity without fusing the joint segments is disclosed. The vertebral column correction system may have first and second vertebral anchors secured to first and second vertebrae. The vertebral column correction system may further comprise one or more intermediate vertebral anchors secured to vertebrae between the first and second vertebrae. A connection member may be disposed within a head portion of the vertebral anchors. At least a portion of the connection member may be a flexible member, such as a flexible cord, configured for tensioning between at least two vertebral anchors for providing a desired amount of tension to apply a correctional force to the spinal column. A spring member, or other tensioning member, may maintain the tension of the connection member. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100331885 | PERCUTANEOUS SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION - Bone anchoring assemblies for use with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques for dynamic stabilization of the spine, together with placement systems for use in such techniques are provided. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100331886 | Posterior Dynamic Stabilization Device Having A Mobile Anchor - A posterior dynamic spinal stabilization device utilizing a spinal rod, a fixed anchor, a mobile anchor adapted for both translation and pivoting, a mobile anchor-limiting stop affixed to the rod and an optional bumper-type, a rod with at least one limiting stop. It allows predetermined and prescribed interpedicular motion. It allows the use of traditional pedicle screw-rod placement techniques in a flexible system possessing many treatment options using familiar components that are familiar to the surgeon, and can be used on multiple levels (especially to top off) and can transition loads by limiting displacements. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100331887 | Longitudinal connecting member with sleeved tensioned cords - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100331888 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM WITH MULTI-STAGE LOCKING MECHANISM - In a rod fixation system of the type used to treat various spinal conditions, the same fastener is used to lock both a polyaxial screw and a rod in position. A spinal correction device according to the invention, adapted for use with a rod and a polyaxial screw having a ball-shaped head and a threaded end, comprises a head-body and a cap. The head-body includes a lower internal cavity to receive the ball-shaped head of the screw, an upper bore to receive a fixation rod therethrough, and an upper end configured to receive the cap. The head-body and the cap are configured such that a first rotation of the cap locks the polyaxial screw in position, and a second rotation of the cap locks the rod in position. In the preferred embodiment, the head-body includes one or more gaps to facilitate flexion of the head-body as a rotational torque is placed on the cap. The gap or gaps may be horizontal, vertical or other angles relative to the axis of the entrapped rod. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100331889 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC FIXATION OF SKELETAL STRUCTURE - The disclosed screw assemblies include a screw that attaches onto the bone, a housing member that connects and inter-locks the bone screw to the rod, and one or more locking members that permit immobilization of various components of the assembly relative to one another while still permitting some relative movement. The bone screws and bone screw assemblies described herein permit flexible stabilization of the spine. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110004250 | Apparatus for Occipital-Cervical Fixation Enabling Supplemental Occipital Bone Fixation - An apparatus for stabilization of a patient's head relative to the patient's neck joint includes an occi-cervical base member having a “C’-shaped central part and first and second attachment rods respectively connected to and extending transversely from free ends of the central part. An occiput attachment has a first end slideably engaged to the central part and a flat, straight second end that extends radially outwardly relative to the first end. First and second polyaxial screw heads are adapted to be implanted in first and second occipital condyles of a patient, respectively. The first and second polyaxial screw heads are adapted to engage first and second stabilizing rods, respectively, that are placed in-line with the cervical spine of a patient and to engage the first and second attachment rods, respectively. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110004251 | SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - A spinal fixation system includes a pedicle screw having a longitudinal axis. A fixation element is configured to connect the pedicle screw to at least one additional pedicle screw. A coupling mechanism includes a pedicle screw securing device adapted to secure the coupling mechanism to the pedicle screw and a fixation element securing device configured to secure the coupling mechanism to the fixation element. A fastening mechanism is configured to fasten both the pedicle screw securing device and the fixation element securing device. The fastening mechanism is located along the longitudinal axis of the pedicle screw. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110009905 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR STABILIZING THE SPINE THROUGH AN ACCESS DEVICE - An apparatus for stabilizing vertebrae while permitting a range of motion therebetween may include first and second fasteners for engaging adjacent vertebrae and a motion preserving device that can be coupled to the first and second fasteners. The motion preserving device may include a longitudinal member that includes an array of load-bearing elements. The longitudinal member may be configured to permit the load-bearing elements to move relative to each other and/or relative to other portions of the member. In some embodiments, the longitudinal member is relatively inflexible along a longitudinal axis and relatively flexible in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110015677 | ANCHORING ELEMENT AND STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR THE DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF VERTEBRAE OR BONES USING SUCH ANCHORING ELEMENTS - An anchoring element for a stabilization device for bones or vertebrae, with which a bone or vertebra can be connected to a rod-shaped element is described. By providing for at least one degree of rotational freedom between the rod and an anchoring element that is firmly connected to the bone or vertebra, the transfer of torque (M) onto the anchoring element and can be prevented as well as loosening or even separation of the bone anchoring element from the bone or vertebra. Moreover, the invention provides a stabilization device, in which such bone anchoring elements are used. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110015678 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Each end guide tool includes a laterally extending, rigid, rod holding structure located near a bottom surface thereof. Intermediate guide tools having pass-through slots are utilized to guide the rod to the bone screws at intermediate locations. For bone screw implantation, the end guide tools and intermediate guide tools are assembled with a driver. The driver is coaxial with the respective guide tool and rotatingly mateable thereto. The driver includes a stem and a nut-type fastener, the stem receivable in the guide tool. The fastener allows for rotation of the bone screw without rotating the attached guide tool. For reducing a rod into the bone screw, a rod pusher is deployed that is coaxial with a respective guide tool and includes an outer sleeve that abuts the rod as the sleeve is translated along the guide tool and toward the bone screw. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110022094 | Pedicle Screw Connector Apparatus and Method - A low-profile rod connector is disclosed that includes two substantially conical surfaces that allows two rods to be secured together. The device is easily manipulated and occupies very little space. The connector allows for the rods to be oriented at a number of different positions prior to securing the rods in a final orientation. Medical implants utilizing the present invention include surgical implants for spine stabilization. One particular application comprises securing the shaft of a pedicle screw to a spinal rod. In such application, since the connector is relatively small, displacement and disruption to nearby tissue is minimized. The connector also has application to external fixation systems which are conducted exterior of the skin surface, as well as other mechanical devices. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110022095 | Modular Multi-Level Spine Stabilization System and Method - A multi-level spine stabilization system comprises a plurality of securing members configured for attachment to a plurality of vertebrae. A plurality of adjustable rods segments extend between the plurality of securing members. The adjustable rod comprises a first rod segment that engages a second rod segment in an adjustable relationship. The length of the rod may be adjusted by moving the first rod segment relative to the second rod segment. For example, the first rod segment may be in a slideable relationship with the second rod segment such that sliding the first rod segment relative to the second rod segment results in a change in the length of the rod. In one embodiment, portions of both the first rod segment and the second rod segment are positioned within and secured to the securing member. Advantageously, the multi-level spine stabilization system described herein may be used to center dynamic portions of the rod between securing members. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110029022 | SPINAL COLUMN IMPLANT - A spinal column implant ( | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110040331 | POSTERIOR STABILIZER - A dynamic hybrid stabilization system having a plurality of affixation elements coupled to a spinal segment having at least two intervertebral spaces, each affixation element having a medially extending connector element. A plurality of dynamic stabilization devices having an adjustable range of motion and being spaced medially from the affixation elements is included, each dynamic stabilization device being coupled to at least one of the connector elements and including an attachment element spanning at least one intervertebral space, such that each dynamic stabilization device and the connector element when coupled together span at least two intervertebral spaces. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110046678 | Facet Joint Prosthesis - Various methods and devices are provided for a facet replacement device. In one embodiment of the invention, a facet replacement device is provided and includes an elongate member matable to a first vertebra and a housing. The housing can have a connector formed thereon and matable to an adjacent second vertebra and an inner lumen formed therein. The housing can also include a deformable member disposed within the inner lumen and having an opening formed therein for slidably receiving at least a portion of the elongate member such that the elongate member can be angularly oriented relative to a longitudinal axis of the lumen. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110054536 | GROWTH DIRECTED VERTEBRAL FIXATION SYSTEM WITH DISTRACTIBLE CONNECTOR(S) AND APICAL CONTROL - Growth directed correction of a spine via apical vertebral control includes securing a correction system to a first vertebra and a second vertebra of the spine, the correction system defining a correction axis extending between the first and second vertebra and securing the correction system to a third vertebra intermediate the first and second vertebra, the correction system securing the third vertebra at a fixed distance from the correction axis. The correction system is secured to the first and second vertebra such that the first and second vertebra are able to grow away from one another in a direction substantially parallel to the correction axis. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110060368 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANS-LAMINA SPINAL FIXATION - A method of providing spinal stabilization is provided herein. More specifically, the method includes positioning a plurality of fixation assemblies within a plurality of vertebrae in a trans-lamina orientation wherein each fixation assembly includes a proximal portion configured to securely receive a stabilization element (e.g., a stabilization rod). The proximal portions of the various fixation assemblies can be aligned so as to secure at least one stabilization element in a desired position (e.g., along and above a midline of the patient's spine, adjacent and parallel to the midline). A system for providing spinal stabilization is also provided which utilizes trans-lamina delivery and positioning of fixation assemblies within target vertebrae thereby providing stronger fixation and a significant reduction in associated tissue damage. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110066188 | GROWTH MODULATION SYSTEM - A spinal management system includes a stabilizing member adapted to extend substantially longitudinally along a target region of a spine tending to exhibit a defective curvature and a set of stabilizing anchors adapted for fixation to vertebrae and to receive the stabilizing member to secure the stabilizing member against substantial transverse translation relative to the vertebrae. The system also includes a first correction anchor adapted for fixation to a vertebra, a second correction anchor adapted for fixation to a vertebra, and a connection between the stabilizing member and the first correction anchor and between the first and second correction anchors adapted such that when the connection is tensioned a compressive force is selectively exerted between the first and second correction anchors. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110077688 | ANCHORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SPINAL DEFORMITIES - Spinal anchoring methods and devices are provided that are effective to correct spinal deformities while allowing some flexibility to the spinal. In particular, the methods and devices allow a spinal fixation element to mate to several adjacent vertebrae to maintain the vertebrae at a fixed distance relative to one another, yet to allow the orientation of each vertebrae relative to the fixation element to adjust as the orientation of the patient's spine changes. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110082505 | IMPLANT SYSTEM AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE METHOD FOR IMMOBILIZING ADJACENT VERTEBRAL BODIES - A spinal implant system for use in immobilizing adjacent vertebral bodies in a minimally invasive manner, including a pair of implants having lengths {sufficient so that one of the ends extend outside of a patient's body when the implants are installed. Each implant has a pair of opposed elongated posts which in conjunction with an orthogonally arranged support surface define a transverse opening for receiving a stabilizing rod. A cap having upper and lower surfaces is associated with each implant, each cap and it's associated post has means for advancing the cap along the posts toward the support surface to lock a stabilizing rod therebetween. The rod is pivotally coupled to one of the caps so that the rod, when pivoted, will extend between the transverse openings in adjacently installed implants. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110087291 | FUSION IMPLANTS AND SYSTEMS FOR POSTERIOR LATERAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus and methods include implants insertable into the body of a patient for posterior lateral fusion of one or more vertebral levels. The implant can be osteoinductive and/or osteoconductive to facilitate or initiate the fusion between two or more bony portions of the spinal column. The fusion implant can be used in isolation or in conjunction with a posterior stabilization construct. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087292 | OCCIPITAL FIXATION ASSEMBLY, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING THE SAME - An occipital fixation assembly is provided. The occipital fixation assembly includes a first mounting plate configured for placement within a sinus cavity adjacent a rear portion of a skull of a patient. A threaded post extends from the first mounting plate. A coupling member includes an aperture configured to receive the threaded post therethrough. The coupling member includes an offset extension configured to support a surgical rod thereon. A fixation nut configured to threadably engage the threaded post of the first mounting plate is rotatable about the threaded post and translatable therealong. The fixation nut is rotatable with respect to the first mounting plate and the coupling member such that rotation of the fixation nut in a predetermined direction brings the first mounting plate and the coupling member toward one another and into secured engagement with the skull of a patient. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110093015 | SPINAL IMPLANT WITH A FLEXIBLE EXTENSION ELEMENT - A spinal implant with at least one flexible elongated extension element is provided. The spinal implant has a profile that is lower than standard spinal implants. The spinal implant includes a bone anchor with a head portion and a shaft extending along a longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. A head plate is coupled to the bone anchor. The head plate includes a first elongated extension element and a second elongated extension element. The first elongated extension element and the second elongated extension element may be formed as a single monolithic element that is attached to the head plate by passing through a pair of openings provided on the head plate. At least one of the first elongated extension element and the second elongated extension element is flexible. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110098747 | ARCUATE FIXATION MEMBER - Arcuate fixation members with varying configurations and/or features are provided, along with additional components for use therewith in provided fixation systems and intervertebral implant systems. The arcuate fixation members may be of varying lengths, cross sectional geometries, and/or cross sectional areas, and may be configured with various features such as heads configured to accept other fixation system components, tabs to allow arcuate fixation member-in-arcuate fixation member or fixation anchor-in-arcuate fixation member configurations. Applications of fixation systems and intervertebral implants systems utilizing arcuate fixation members are particularly suitable when a linear line-of-approach for delivering fixation members is undesirable. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110106163 | Interlaminar Stabilizing System - A spinal stabilization system includes a first engagement member and a support structure. The first engagement member is adapted to be disposed between a first vertebra and a second vertebra. The engagement member generally includes a seating surface for accommodating at least a portion of a laminar region of the first vertebra. The support structure engages a portion of the second vertebra. The structural cooperation of the first engagement member and the support structure is such that the engagement member restricts reduction of the intervertebral spacing between the first and second vertebrae. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106164 | APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING A SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM WITH SUPPLEMENTAL FIXATION - An apparatus for implementing a spinal fixation system with supplemental fixation includes a spinal fixation rod assembly and at least one supplemental fixation device. The spinal fixation rod assembly is adapted to provide primary fixation at a plurality of first fixation points by being secured to a plurality of first vertebral components except not into one of the first vertebral components of the plurality that is in a weakened structural condition and located between other of the first vertebral components of the plurality. The supplemental fixation device is adapted to provide supplemental fixation for the assembly at a second fixation point by being secured to a second vertebral component located adjacent to and offset from the one first vertebral component in the weakened structural condition and also to interconnect with the assembly to provide anchorage and thus additional fixation supplemental to the primary fixation. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106165 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION AND CORRECTION OF SPINAL DEFORMITIES - An apparatus for attachment to a vertebral body for correcting spinal deformities. The apparatus has a plate member having an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface having at least one receiving member defining a channel for receiving a flexible connection member. The at least one receiving member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal and distal portions interfacing along a frangible connection such that the at least one receiving member extends axially from the upper surface a first distance when the frangible connection is unbroken and the at least one receiving member extends axially from the upper surface a second distance when the frangible connection is broken. The second distance is less than the first distance. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106166 | REVISION CONNECTOR FOR SPINAL CONSTRUCTS - A revision connector is configured to couple a new spine fixation rod to a previously implanted spine fixation rod that is secured to a plurality of vertebrae. The new spine fixation rod can be implanted and secured to vertebrae that are caudal and/or cranial with respect to the previously secured vertebrae. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106167 | ADJUSTABLE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - An adjustable spinal stabilization system having a flexible connection unit for non-rigid stabilization of the spinal column. In one embodiment, the spinal stabilization system includes a flexible connection unit having a tether running through a hollow portion of the flexible connection unit, wherein the tether limits bending of the flexible connection unit. In a further embodiment the tether is pre-tensioned. In a further embodiment, the tension upon or compression of the tether is adjustable. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106168 | Laminoplasty Rod System - A laminoplasty rod and rod system that allows for variable angulation, translation (distraction and/or compression) and rotation of a spinal lamina bone portion associated with a laminoplasty, prior to fixation thereof. The laminoplasty rod is configured for use with a polyaxial spinal rod bone screw assembly that is adapted to be anchored to the vertebra associated with the laminoplasty, and is attachable to the spinal lamina bone portion. The laminoplasty rod system provides positional attachment of the laminoplasty rod to the spinal components associated with the laminoplasty and fixation thereof in various orientations. The laminoplasty rod system is characterized by a configured laminoplasty rod that fits into or onto the head of a polyaxial spinal rod bone screw assembly. A bone screw boss, defining a bone screw attachment configuration, is formed at one end of the laminoplasty rod. Preferably, but not necessarily, the bone screw boss is situated at an angled end of the rod having a pre-defined bend that provides for greater variation in rod orientation. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110112578 | MULTIPLANAR BONE ANCHOR SYSTEM - The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of a spinal fixation procedure. A multiplanar bone anchor system for a fixation procedure is provided. The system can include a bone fastener. The bone fastener can include a head and a second end adapted to engage an anatomy. The bone fastener can extend along a longitudinal axis. The system can also include a coupling arrangement coupled to the head of the bone fastener so that the bone fastener is rotatable about the longitudinal axis to define a first plane of motion. The system can further include a saddle, which can be coupled to the coupling arrangement. The saddle can be movable relative to at least one of the bone fastener and the coupling arrangement to define a second plane of motion. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110112579 | ROD AND METHOD OF INSERTION - A spinal fusion system has at least one spinal rod including a longitudinal member having at least one hollow extending therethrough, and at least one rod fenestration that extends through the longitudinal member. There are at least two bone screws for attachment to a spine. Each bone screw includes a threaded shaft for location within the spine, and a head attached to the threaded shaft. The head is able to be used for attachment to a rod, and the head includes at least one fenestration. At least one spinal rod is attached to the respective heads of the bone screws. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110112580 | VERTEBRAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS EQUIPMENT - This equipment includes:
| 05-12-2011 |
| 20110112581 | VERTEBRAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS EQUIPMENT - Equipment at least one anchoring assembly including a hook integral with a body, this body being passed through by a hole and capable of being connected to connection means making it possible to connect the anchoring assembly to a connection bar for connecting a series of vertebrae. The anchoring assembly has a continuous flexible ligament able to be engaged in the hole and to form a loop allowing the engagement of the ligament around a structure of a vertebrae or mounted on a vertabrae, and has stop means making it possible to immobilize this ligament in relation to body. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110118784 | Cervical Plate Ratchet Pedicle Screws - A dynamic cervical plate has a ratchet and pawl mechanism that allows the cervical plate to post operatively shorten the length of the plate and maintain compression between adjacent vertebrae. The plate has an elongated shaft with teeth on one surface and a groove along each longitudinal edge. A lateral plate is attached on one end of the shaft. The plate has screw holes for connecting with the head of a spinal screw. Another lateral plate is slidably engaged in the longitudinal grooves along the shaft and has a spring clip acting as a pawl with the teeth on the shaft. The sliding bar has screw holes on each side of the shaft. The clip is configured to span the screw holes to automatically engage and prevent screws from backing out of the holes. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110118785 | APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ACHIEVING ANTERIOR LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSION - Assemblies of one or more implant structures make possible the achievement of diverse interventions involving the fusion and/or stabilization of lumbar and sacral vertebra in a non-invasive manner, with minimal incision, and without the necessitating the removing the intervertebral disc. The representative lumbar spine interventions, which can be performed on adults or children, include, but are not limited to, lumbar interbody fusion; translaminar lumbar fusion; lumbar facet fusion; trans-iliac lumbar fusion; and the stabilization of a spondylolisthesis. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110118786 | SPINAL ROD SYSTEM - Provided is a spinal rod system for simply and safely fixing a damaged vertebra by connecting the spinal rod system to a vertebra body fixing rod fixed to a vertebra through the prior procedure. The spinal rod system includes a connecting rod including a first curved part and a second curved part so that one end part and another end part are spaced apart from each other and parallel to each other, and a connecting unit for connecting the one end part of the connecting rod to the vertebra fixing rod fixed to the vertebra through the prior procedure. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110118787 | ARTIFICIAL FACET JOINT - Various methods and devices for replacing damaged, injured, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy posterior elements, such as the facet joints, the lamina, the posterior ligaments, and/or other features of a patient's spinal column, are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices are effective to mimic the natural function of the spine by allowing flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the spine, while substantially restricting posterior-anterior shear and rotation of the spine. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110137348 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with molded connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having at least one transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. The transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein and a molded plastic length that extends through the apertures, thus attaching the plastic length to the rigid length. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110137349 | HORIZONTAL-TRANSVERTEBRAL CURVILINEAR NAIL-SCREWS WITH INTER-LOCKING RIGID OR JOINTED FLEXIBLE RODS FOR SPINAL FUSION - A horizontal-transvertebral curvilinear nail-screw (HTCN) including a body portion having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is opposed to the second end; and a head at the first end of the body portion, wherein the body portion has a predetermined curvilinear shape and includes a pointed tip at the second end of the body portion, and a method of surgically implanting universal horizontal-transvertebral curvilinear nail-screws (HTCN) into a plurality of adjacent vertebrae. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110137350 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE BONE ANCHOR EXTENSIONS - Methods and devices are provided for facilitating delivery and implanting of a bone anchor into bone. In one exemplary embodiment, a bone anchor extension is provided for coupling to a bone anchor to facilitate delivery and implanting of the bone anchor in bone. The bone anchor extension can have a generally elongate configuration that allows it to extend from a skin incision in a patient to a site proximate a patient's spine, and it can include a lumen extending therethrough between proximal and distal ends thereof. A distal end of the bone anchor extension can be adapted to engage a bone anchor, such as a bone screw. Various techniques are provided for locking the distal end of the bone anchor extension into engagement with a bone anchor. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110144695 | SPINAL ROD APPROXIMATOR - Spinal implants, spinal rod approximators for seating a stabilizing rod in a rod-receiving portion of a spinal implant, and methods for using the same are provided. In one embodiment, a spinal rod approximator is provided including an elongate member having a grasping member formed on a distal end thereof, and a rod pusher member slidably mated to or mounted on the elongate member. The grasping member is effective to grasp a portion of a spinal implant, and the pusher member is effective to grasp and engage a stabilizing rod and push the rod into a rod-receiving portion of the spinal implant being grasped by the grasping member. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110152937 | Surgical Implants for Selectively Controlling Spinal Motion Segments - Elongated connecting elements include bodies having composite cross-sections defining a first resistance to bending about a first bending axis and a second resistance to bending about a second bending axis that is transverse to the first bending axis. The cross-section also includes intermediate bending axes between the first and second bending axes that provide resistance to bending that is less than that provided about the first bending axis and greater than that provided about the second bending axis. The connecting elements are positioned along one or more spinal motion segments and engaged to vertebrae with anchors with one of the first, second, and intermediate bending axes in the desired orientation relative to the spinal motion segment to provide the desired stiffness and resistance to bending. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110152938 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR VERTEBRAE STABILIZATION AND CURVATURE CORRECTION, AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - An apparatus and system useful as a stabilization or correction system for a spinal column. A threaded rod is used that can be straight, rigid, bent or flexible depending on the verterbrae condition to be addressed. The rod may be bent or flexible to achieve varying degrees of lordosis (backward curvature) or kyphosis (forward curvature) before being affixed to the anchoring means and apparatus. The straightness, curvature, bent, or flexibility of rod depends upon the location along the spinal column. Once installed to the vertebrae, the rod provides the proper, desired curvature and stabilization for the spinal column. Sharp edges and corners of the apparatus are eliminated by rounding the edges and corners. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110152939 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR VERTEBRAE STABILIZATION AND CURVATURE CORRECTION, AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - An apparatus and system useful as a stabilization or correction system for a spinal column. A threaded rod is used that can be straight, rigid, bent or flexible depending on the vertebrae condition to be addressed. The rod may be bent or flexible to achieve varying degrees of lordosis (backward curvature) or kyphosis (forward curvature) before being affixed to the anchoring means and apparatus. The straightness, curvature, bent, or flexibility of rod depends upon the location along the spinal column. Once installed to the vertebrae, the rod provides the proper, desired curvature and stabilization for the spinal column. Sharp edges and corners of the apparatus are eliminated by rounding the edges and corners. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110152940 | METHODS OF SPINAL FIXATION AND INSTRUMENTATION - A method for performing spinal fixation and instrumentation. A first incision may be made through the skin and a passageway may be created to the spine. A screw may be inserted through the passageway and into a vertebrae. The screw may have a head portion including a channel. An insertion guide may be operable connected to the screw. The insertion guide may have first and second longitudinal slots. Additional screws may each be inserted through separate incisions or through the first incision. Insertion guides may be operably connected to a head portion of each screw. A sleeve may be positioned into one insertion guide in a first position to guide a rod through at least one other insertion guide. The sleeve may be rotated to a second position to allow the rod to move down the slots of the insertion guide(s) and into the head portion of the screw. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110172713 | Offset Variable Angle Connection Assembly - In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an offset connection assembly that can be used to securely connect a spinal implant to a bone anchor. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a variable angle connection assembly that is able to securely connect the spinal implant to the anchors even when there is a variance in the angle and position of the anchors with respect to the spinal implant. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that will not inadvertently lock the components of the connection assembly preventing the relative movement of the components. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172714 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SPINAL SURGERY - Systems and methods for surgical spinal correction are disclosed. A system including a plurality of bone screws, spinal rods, manipulators, and/or transverse couplers is disclosed for the manipulation of the spinal column is disclosed. A method of achieving, in a single action, manipulation and/or rotation of the spinal column using the disclosed system is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of conducting spinal surgery to correct spinal deformities wherein spinal rods are pre-bent in a physiological sagittal plane prior to attachment of the vertebrae using bone screws. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172715 | Spinal Anchor Assemblies Having Extended Receivers - There are provided systems ( | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110184464 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE STABILIZATION OF BONY STRUCTURES - One nonlimiting embodiment of the present application is directed to a system for positioning a connecting element adjacent one or more bones or bony portions, such as the spinal column, through a minimally invasive surgical approach. The system generally includes a number of bone anchors engageable to the one or more bones or bony portions and a number of anchor extenders removably engaged to the bone anchors. An inserter instrument is removably positioned adjacent to one of the anchor extenders and is operable to position a connecting element engaged thereto to a location adjacent the number of bone anchors in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. However, in other embodiments, different forms and applications are envisioned. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184465 | UNIQUE MINIMALLY INVASIVE SYSTEM FOR SECURING CONNECTING ROD ELEMENT TO TRAILING ENDS OF ADJACENT PEDICLE SCREWS - A spinal stabilizing system with at least one connecting rod-like elongated member; a plurality of bone fastening screws that are implantable into the pedicles of the superior and inferior vertebrae comprising at least one target motion segment, wherein said screws being then coupleable to said connecting rod and this system thereby being capable of stabilizing and hence eliminating any between the vertebrae of the target motion segment and wherein the trailing ends of said bone fastening screws is provided with a cradle which couples with said connecting rod-like elongated member. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184466 | Spinal Instrumentation Systems and Methods of Making and Using the Same - Spinal instrumentation systems are disclosed. Methods of making and using spinal instrumentation systems are also disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184467 | DYNAMIC CONSTRUCTS FOR SPINAL STABILIZATION - Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchors engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connector assembly engageable with the anchors to provide a desired stabilization effect. The connector assembly can include a connecting element and a bumper element engageable to the first and second anchors. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110190820 | Displacement Device, Use and System Therefore | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190821 | SPINAL SCREW ASSEMBLY - A spinal screw assembly includes a bone-anchoring member, a washer, and a seat. The bone-anchoring member includes a main shaft, a washer head, and a spherical head. The spherical head extends upward from the top end of the main shaft and the washer head extends laterally from a location of the main shaft between the main shaft's top end and bottom end. The washer is polyaxially rotatable and positionable around the washer head and is configured to be placed at a first angle relative to the main shaft. The seat is polyaxially rotatable and positionable around the spherical head independent from the washer and is configured to be placed at a second angle relative to the main shaft, wherein the second angle is independent from the first angle. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190822 | Internal Structure Stabilization System for Spanning Three or More Structures - A method and system are described for immobilizing three or more vertebrae. The system includes a first bone anchor assembly, a second bone anchor assembly including a connector having a predefined arc, and at least a third bone anchor assembly. The first and second bone anchor assemblies are inserted into the pedicles of vertebrae spanning at least a third vertebra. The third bone anchor assembly is positioned into the third vertebra between the first and second bone anchor assemblies using an arc defining instrument which is used to locate the proper position for the third bone anchor assembly based on the predefined arc of the connector. Once the third bone anchor assembly is in place the connector is rotated into position and captured by the first and third bone anchor assemblies. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190823 | STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - The disclosure relates to systems and methods of spinal stabilization. Embodiments include minimally invasive methods of delivering a rod having a non-circular cross-sectional profile using a wire having an accommodating non-circular cross-sectional profile to inhibit movement of the rod relative to the wire. A rod or a segment of the rod having a non-circular cross-sectional profile may be aligned with the wire and advanced and coupled to bone fastener assemblies which are anchored in vertebrae. The rod is then securely seated in collars of the bone fastener assemblies to stabilize the spine. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110196424 | SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM FOR THE STABILIZATION AND FIXATION OF THE LUMBAR SPINE AND METHOD FOR USING SAME - A system and method for the stabilization and fixation of the lumbar spine. The system can include a plurality of pedicle screws, a support rod, a plurality of rod clamps, and a plurality of coupling members. In one aspect, each coupling member can be configured to engage a proximal portion of a pedicle screw and can have a socket portion that is configured to receive a socket engaging portion of the rod clamp, such that the coupling member and the pedicle screw can be pivoted three-dimensionally relative to the rod clamp and the support rod. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110213419 | Spinal Implant - A screw and rod fixation assembly includes a body member including a screw seat for seating a screw head therein and a rod seat for seating a rod therein. An adjustable locking ring applies a locking force against the screw head seated in the screw seat and a locking cap adjustably applies a locking force against a rod seated in the rod seat. The adjustable screw locking ring and locking cap function independent of each other. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110218574 | DYNAMIC VERTEBRAL CONSTRUCT - A vertebral construct includes a first fastening element having a first portion and a second portion configured for engagement with tissue. A rod defines an elongated cavity configured to facilitate dynamic translation of the first portion therein relative to the rod. A second fastening element has a first portion fixedly connected to the rod. Methods of use are disclosed. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110224732 | BONE FIXATION APPARATUS - What is provided is a fixation system that offers a strong and stable construct for maximum fusion augmentation and yet is versatile enough for any patient and is easy to use. Disclosed is a connection assembly for connecting a spinal implant, the assembly comprising: a body, the body including a body opening for receiving at least a portion of a first connector; a swivel having first and second ends and being operatively connected to the body, the first end including a swivel opening for receiving at least a portion of a second connector; a locking plate having an arm at least partially extending into the body opening; a locking unit operatively connected to the body and contacting the second end of the swivel; and whereby activation of the locking unit causes the arm to engage the first connector and swivel opening to engage the second connector thereby preventing relative rotation between the first and second connectors. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110230915 | Device and Method for Expanding the Spinal Canal With Spinal Column Stabilization and Spinal Deformity Correction - Spinal canal expansion through pedicle lengthening in combination with spinal column stabilization, to treat spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, scoliosis or a major spinal rotational deformity, with or without a spinal fusion. A device or implant that includes a pedicle lengthening implant to decompress (expand) the spinal canal, and a bridge to connect two or more pedicle lengthening implants and/or pedicle screws or bone anchors to achieve simultaneous spinal stabilization across one or more vertebral segments. The bridge across the vertebral segments can include a longitudinal member, such as a plate or rod. The pedicle lengthening implant is originally made, or can be modified to, connect to the longitudinal member. Spinal deformity can be manipulated, through operation of one or more pedicle lengthening implants in respective vertebral segments, to improve a relative relationship between the respective vertebra segments, the longitudinal member then fixating the vertebral segments into a multi-level spinal construct. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110230916 | SCREW AND ROD FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND DEVICE - The present invention provides for a screw and rod fixation assembly for fixing a screw and, optionally, a rod. The screw and rod fixation assembly includes a screw, fixing mechanism, a substantially annular ring, rod seating mechanism, and locking mechanism. The present invention also provides for a fixing mechanism for fixing a screw, wherein the fixing mechanism further includes an inner surface wall having a gripping portion and a non-gripping portion. Further, the present invention provides for a substantially annular ring for guiding and providing mechanical and frictional force to a screw head. Additionally, the present invention provides for a rod seating mechanism operatively engaged to the screw head and including at least one flexible portion capable of being compressed against a portion of a rod therein. Finally, the present invention provides for a locking mechanism for engaging the rod and the rod seating mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a deflecting mechanism for deflecting the at least one flexible portion of the rod seating mechanism against and around the rod as the locking mechanism further engages the at least one flexible portion of the rod seating mechanism. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110230917 | ADJUSTABLE MULTI-AXIAL SPINAL COUPLING ASSEMBLIES - Coupling assemblies and systems and methods are provided with an anchor member movably coupled with a receiver member extending along a receiver axis. A seat member is movable in the receiver member to assume any one of a plurality of orientations corresponding to an orientation of a connecting element extending through the receiver member transversely to the receiver axis. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110238119 | Composite Material Posterior Dynamic Stabilization Spring Rod - The present invention provides a Posterior Dynamic Stabilization (PDS) device that allows elongation, which is a critical requirement for a PDS device as it allows pedicles to travel naturally in flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the spine. This interpedicular travel preserves a more natural center of rotation unlike other PDS devices that simply allow bending. In particular, the invention involves a PDS spring rod, wherein the helix is created with composite flow molding (CFM) technology and comprises a polymer matrix reinforced with continuous carbon fibers, wherein the fibers are oriented substantially parallel to the centerline of the helix, thereby creating a high strength spring. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110245876 | Fully-Adjustable bone fixation device - An orthopedic stabilization system of implants that includes a bone attachment means that provides poly-axial fixation of the system to the vertebrae, and a connector means that connects the bone attachment means to the spinal rod in a fashion that allows variable height adjustment of the spinal rod (dorsal in the case of posterior spinal pedicle fixation). The orthopedic stabilization system includes a locking means with a tightenable ball-joint arrangement that locks a post means to the bone attachment means in a desired relative spatial orientation. Several embodiments are disclosed, some using traditional mechanical locking means such as screw fasteners, taper-locking interfaces and collets. Embodiments are described that use the austenitic transformation of shape memory alloy (SMA) material to effect a locking of both the ball-joint arrangement and the connector means. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110251644 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION SYSTEM USING POLYAXIAL SCREWS - A spinal stabilization system including an insert positionable in the channel of the housing of a poly-axial pedicle screw which allows for locking the housing of the poly-axial pedicle screw from pivotal movement through a clamping force generated by rotational engagement of a fastener with the housing while clamping a cord of a support construct in the housing of the poly-axial pedicle screw through direct contact of the fastener against the cord. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110251645 | Jointed Rod - The present invention is a spinal fixation device that includes an occipital rod having a first end and a second end, and a spinal rod extending from a connection housing having a first end and a second end. The first end of the spinal rod is integral with a portion of the connection housing and the connection housing is configured with an elongated opening, a rotating plug, and a locking mechanism. The elongated opening is configured for mating with the first end of the occipital plate and the locking mechanism is adapted to enable the occipital rod to be locked in a fixed position. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110257686 | FLEXIBLE BONE FASTENER AND METHODS OF USE - A bone fastener includes an elongated first section having a distal end. A flexible member has an outer surface and defines an inner cavity configured for disposal of the distal end of the first section. An elongated second section defines a longitudinal axis and includes a wall that defines an interior cavity configured for disposal of the flexible member such that the distal end of the first section is disposed within the interior cavity of the second section. The outer surface of the flexible member engages the wall in a configuration such that the first section is pivotable to a plurality of axial orientations relative to the longitudinal axis of the second section. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110270314 | SPINAL STABILIZING AND GUIDING FIXATION SYSTEM - A system to stabilize and guide the growth of the spinal column includes an elongated support member having a width and a length and a guiding connector having a bone connecting portion and a guiding portion. The bone connecting portion secures the guiding connector to a vertebrae and the guiding portion has a bearing element with a passageway adapted to receive the elongated support member. The bearing element permits relative sliding movement of the elongated support element in the passageway of the bearing element. The system may further include a bone fixation element has an elongated support member receiving channel, a locking mechanism and a bone anchoring portion. The bone anchoring portion secures the bone fixation element to bone. The locking mechanism secures the elongated support member in the channel. The guiding connector is moveable along the elongated support member to permit and control the growth of the spinal column along a predetermined path. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270315 | Techniques For Anterior Partial Transpedicular Stabilization - Techniques for anterior partial transpedicular stabilization are disclosed. The vertebral stabilization assembly for stabilizing vertebrae including a first vertebral screw having a shaft with a first end, a threaded portion, and an engaging portion, and a second vertebral screw having a shaft with a first end, a threaded portion, and an engaging portion. The vertebral stabilization assembly may also include a third vertebral screw having a shaft with a first end, a threaded portion, and an engaging portion, and a fourth vertebral screw having a shaft with a first end, a threaded portion, and an engaging portion. The vertebral stabilization assembly may further include a beveled connecting member having a first end and a second end and the first end of the beveled connecting member is configured to engage with the first vertebral screw and the second vertebral screw and the second end of the connecting member configured to engage with the third vertebral screw and the fourth vertebral screw. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270316 | Variable Geometry Occipital Fixation Plate - A fixation device for connecting a stabilization device to a bone comprises a first member comprising a first portion for attachment to a bone, and a second member comprising a second portion for attachment to a bone and connected to the first member by a pivotal connection such that the first and second portions are spaced apart by an adjustable distance, at least one of the first and second members further comprising a portion for mounting a connector adapted to secure a stabilization device. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110276093 | SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM HAVING LOCKING AND UNLOCKING DEVICES FOR USE WITH A MULTI-PLANAR, TAPER LOCK SCREW - Provided is a spinal fixation system including a taper lock screw including an inner housing and an outer housing that are translatable relative to one another to transition the taper lock screw between a locked position and an unlocked position. A locking device releasably connects to and operationally interacts with a flange of the taper lock screw. An unlocking device releasably connects to and operationally interacts with inner housing unlocking tool receptors of the taper lock screw to unlock the taper lock screw. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110282389 | Bone fixation plate assembly - A bone fixation plate assembly includes an elongated plate having two or more sets of two adjacent screw holes extending between its top and bottom surfaces. A landing extends through the top surface of between the adjacent screw holes of a set. An interior sidewall of each one of the screw holes is spherically shaped. Each one of the screw holes has a minimum diameter at its bottom edge that is less than a minimum diameter at its top edge. An anti-back-out device is fixedly attached to the elongated plate on each one of the landings. Opposing end portions of each anti-back-out device has one or more screw engaging structures integral therewith overhanging an adjacent one of the screw holes at the top edge thereof. The one or more screw engaging structures is deflectable with respect to a mounting portion of a respective one of the anti-back-out devices. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110282390 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PEDICLE SCREW STABILIZATION OF SPINAL VERTEBRAE - The present application is directed to various spinal stabilization systems. The systems can include one or more guiding elements attached to screw members to assist in guiding rod implants and tools to desired locations within a patient. The guiding elements can include a plurality of wires, blades, or tabs. The guiding elements can be capable of criss-crossing or intersecting at or near an incision, such that only a single incision may be needed to perform a surgery. The guiding elements can also include telescoping features that allow the height of the guiding elements to be adjusted in use, thereby allowing multiple telescoping guiding elements to be used with the same incision. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110288590 | IMPLANTABLE VERTEBRAL FRAME SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS FOR SPINAL REPAIR - The invention relates generally to systems and methods for securing adjacent vertebrae in a fixed spacial relationship. In one embodiment, the system includes at least one interbody repair implant, at least one implantable vertebral frame and at least one retention member. In this embodiment, the interbody repair implant is sized to fit in an intervertebral space. The at least one implantable vertebral frame is configured to span between the adjacent vertebrae. The frame is also configured to attach to each of the adjacent vertebra to postoperatively maintain a desired spatial relationship between the vertebrae. The frame has at least one internal aperture there-through for providing visual access to at least a portion of the interbody repair implant, both intra-operatively and post-operatively. Methods of fusing two or more adjacent vertebral bodies in a portion of a spinal column are also disclosed. One such method includes the steps of inserting an interbody repair implant into a intervertebral space, securing an implantable vertebral fixation frame to the adjacent vertebral bodies over the implant, installing a retention member to the frame to cover at least a portion of the aperture, and moving a locking portion of the retention member from an unlocked position to a locked position. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288591 | MINIMAL PROFILE ANTERIOR BRACKET FOR SPINAL FIXATION - A spinal fixation device for securing to a spine includes a body having one or more longitudinal members extending between a pair of wedge members. Each wedge member defines one or more openings therethrough for the reception of a bone screw. The wedge members are disposed on opposite ends of the one or more longitudinal members. One of the wedge members is positionable within a first intervertebral space and the other wedge member is positionable within a second intervertebral space. The one or more longitudinal members define a length that spans one or more vertebrae. The one or more longitudinal members are positionable within the one or more vertebrae when the wedge members are positioned within the respective first and second intervertebral spaces to maintain the body in a minimal profile orientation relative to the spine. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110295319 | DYNAMIC PEDICLE SCREW - A bone screw, such as a pedicle screw, comprises en elongate structure having a head, an anchoring portion or tip distal from the head, and an open, helical body extending there-between. In one embodiment, the invention provides a screw having an anchoring portion, which engages bone and which includes a means for engaging a driver or the like whereby the screw is driven into the bone by the anchoring portion. A method of driving a screw is also provided. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295320 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110301646 | COMPRESSION-DISTRACTION SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - Compression-distraction spinal fixation systems, and methods of performing compression-distraction spinal fixation, are provided that include screw-rod constructs having a ratcheting mechanism. Bone screws of the screw-rod constructs can have a pawl that engages ratchet teeth on the rod of the screw-rod construct. The bone screw can be ratcheted along the length of the rod to apply distractive or compressive forces. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110307014 | SPINAL FIXATION ROD MADE OF TITANIUM ALLOY - A spinal fixation titanium alloy rod fixes a plurality of spinal-fixing screws embedded and fixed in vertebrae of a human body. The rod is cylindrically shaped, has a sufficient length for coupling with the spinal-fixing screws, and has a diameter adjusted to 4 to 7 mm. In the titanium alloy constituting the rod, Nb content is 25 to 35 percent by weight, Ta content is such that the Nb content+0.8×Ta content ranges from 36 to 45 percent by weight, Zr content is 3 to 6 percent by weight, and the remainder is Ti and unavoidable impurities, excluding vanadium. The titanium alloy is manufactured by swaging processing at a cross-sectional reduction rate of at least 90%, and aging the swaged titanium alloy by heating at a temperature of 600 to 800K, preferably 700 to 800K, for 43.2 ks to 604.8 ks. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307015 | ADAPTIVE SPINAL ROD AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - An adaptive spinal rod is provided for connecting levels of an adaptive stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the adaptive stabilization rod include a ball having an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The deflection system provides adaptive stabilization and load-sharing. The adaptive spinal rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The adaptive spinal rod cooperates with the deflection system to further reduce stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307016 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF BONE STRUCTURES - A dynamic bone stabilization system is provided. The system may be placed through small incisions and tubes. The system provides systems and methods of treating the spine, which eliminate pain and enable spinal motion, which effectively mimics that of a normally functioning spine. Methods are also provided for stabilizing the spine and for implanting the subject systems. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307017 | DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION ASSEMBLY WITH SLIDING COLLARS - A dynamic spinal stabilization assembly includes a rod having a plurality of slidable collars thereon. The rod is mounted to at least one of the relevant bone anchoring element(s) via the collars. The collars are spaced from one another such that the bone anchoring element engages at least two collars. The collars may be arranged on the rod so that adjacent collars are longitudinally spaced from one another by a distance not more than one-half the length of the rod-receiving channel in the relevant bone anchoring element. There may be elastic elements slidably disposed on the rod between adjacent collars. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110313460 | System for Percutaneously Fixing a Connecting Rod to a Spine - A system for percutaneously fixing a connecting rod to vertebrae comprises first and second bone screws, each with a corresponding hollow bone screw extension mounted thereto, and a connecting rod of length sized for simultaneous receipt in the yokes of the bone screws. A rod introducer is provided for inserting the connecting rod into slots of the screw extensions and into the yokes of the bone screws. A rod persuader may also be provided that is attachable to at least one of the screw extensions, the rod persuader being operable to engage the connecting rod and urge the rod into the slot of the yoke of the corresponding bone screws. A rod detector may also be provided for insertion one of the screw extensions, the rod detector having an indicator sensing the presence of a rod in the slot of the yoke of at least one of the bone screws. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110313461 | FLEXIBLE SPINAL STABILIZATION ELEMENT AND SYSTEM - Systems and devices for providing dynamic stabilization of one or more spinal motion segments are provided. The systems include a connecting element between two or more bone anchor assemblies that can be attached to two or more vertebral bodies of at least one spinal motion segment. The connecting element includes a first end, a second end, an intermediate resilient element and a sheathed tether extending from the first end to the second end and through the resilient intermediate element. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110319938 | COPLANAR DEFORMITY CORRECTION SYSTEM - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver mounted to the bone anchor, a saddle within the receiver, a spacer within the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis proximally away from the bone anchor. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a passage of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle, which engages the saddle against the spacer, which in turn engages the proximal head of the bone anchor in the receiver. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110319939 | COMPRESSION-DISTRACTION SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM AND KIT - Compression-distraction spinal fixation systems, and methods of performing compression-distraction spinal fixation, are provided that include screw-rod constructs having a ratcheting mechanism. Bone screws of the screw-rod constructs can have a pawl that engages ratchet teeth on the rod of the screw-rod construct. The bone screw can be unidirectionally ratcheted along the length of the rod to apply compressive or distractive forces. Tools for manipulation of the screw-rod constructs are also provided, which tools include distal tips configured to engage the bone screws. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110319940 | NON-FUSION SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Methods and devices that utilize segmental fixation between several adjacent vertebrae, thus allowing each vertebrae to be adjusted independently, are provided. In general, the device includes a spinal anchoring element that is adapted to seat at least one spinal fixation element, and a closure mechanism that is adapted to mate to the spinal anchoring element to lock the at least one spinal fixation element in a fixed position relative to the spinal anchoring element. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120010661 | MULTI-AXIAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE AND SYSTEM - Embodiments of an orthopedic implant device and system, and methods for implanting them, are disclosed. The implant may include a receiver member having a channel for accommodating an elongated rod or other longitudinal member, a bone anchoring member such as a screw or hook, and a base member rotatable with respect to the receiver member for retaining the bone anchoring member in the receiver member. The base member is configured to allow at least two different degrees of maximum angulation of the bone anchoring member with respect to the receiver member. The number and relative direction of such angulations are independent of the orientation of the channel or other part of the receiving member. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120016422 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PEDICLE SCREW STABILIZATION OF SPINAL VERTEBRAE - The present application is directed to various spinal stabilization systems. The systems can include one or more guiding elements attached to screw members to assist in guiding rod implants and tools to desired locations within a patient. The guiding elements can include a plurality of wires, blades, or tabs. The guiding elements can be capable of criss-crossing or intersecting at or near an incision, such that only a single incision may be needed to perform a surgery. The guiding elements can also include telescoping features that allow the height of the guiding elements to be adjusted in use, thereby allowing multiple telescoping guiding elements to be used with the same incision. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120016423 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIRE-GUIDED PEDICLE SCREW STABILIZATION OF SPINAL VERTEBRAE - An improved system and method for positioning screws and rods to immobilize bones is provided. Specifically, the system and method is optimal for performing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and other interbody fusions in the spine. The system involves pedicle screws detachably connected to wires that guide rods down to the screws. The wires are strong, narrow, flexible, adjustable in tension, and easily disconnected from the screws after rod placement via a process such as cutting, radiating, burning, dissolving, etc. The use of wires to place the rods avoids the conventional bulky tower apparatuses of the prior art while at the same time enhancing the accuracy of placement. One of the preferred methods involves relying upon the natural lordotic curvature of the spine and the narrow diameter of the wires to insert many elements through a single minimally invasive incision. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120022593 | SEMI-DYNAMIC FIXATION PLATE SYSTEM - A fixation plate system includes a plate with elongated slots, and first and second anchors for attaching the plate to vertebrae. The first and second anchors have different head configurations that are selected by the surgeon to control how settlement occurs at each fused segment. The head of the first fastener is insertable in any of the slots and resists translation. The head of the second fastener is insertable in any of the slots in free sliding engagement to allow translation of the head in that slot. In one method of use, the surgeon selects a segment where settling needs to be limited, and uses the first fastener to fix the plate near the segment and limit settling at that segment. The first and second fasteners have a built-in spring that assists in securing the fasteners in the plate. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022594 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL TOWER ACCESS DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS - Devices and methods are provided for assisting in spinal stabilization. An access device is provided that includes an outer sleeve, inner sleeve, spring latch and lock nut. The inner sleeve includes compressible grasping elements. The access device can be coupled to a screw head by sliding the outer sleeve relative to the inner sleeve and compressing the grasping elements. The coupled access device and screw can then be delivered to a target location in a patient. After providing two or more access devices, a rod member can be delivered using a rod insertion device. The rod member can serve as a connection between the two screws, and can provide spinal stabilization. An anti-torque device and a persuading device can be used to help ensure that the rod member is placed and secured in a proper location within a patient. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120029566 | ADJUSTABLE SPINAL CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY - A spinal connector assembly including a connector body defining first and second passages arranged transverse to one another and configured to receive respective portions of an implant and an elongate rod. A collet receives a portion of the implant therein and extends through the first passage with an upper portion extending axially beyond an upper side of the connector body and a lower portion extending axially beyond a lower side of the connector body. A washer is positioned annularly about the lower portion of the collet and beneath the connector body with a top side of the washer facing a lower side of the connector body and with one of the top and lower sides defining a convex surface and the other defining a concave surface. A lock member is engaged with the upper portion of the collet and exerts an upward force thereon to pull the collet and the washer in an upward direction to draw the convex and concave surfaces into compressed engagement with one another, and the upward force also drawing an outer surface of the collet against an inner engagement surface to inwardly displace a portion of the collet into clamped engagement with the implant member. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029567 | ANCHORING MECHANISM - A system for anchoring at least a portion of material to a vertebral body is disclosed. The anchoring system comprises a base configured to affix to the vertebral body, configured to receive the at least a portion of material, and configured to receive a fastener so as to apply pressure to the at least a portion of material so as to anchor the at least a portion of material to the base. Another system further comprises an anchoring mechanism configured to engage with the base and configured to anchor the at least a portion of material, wherein the anchoring mechanism comprises at least one elastic element configured to engage with a fastener and configured to apply pressure to the at least a portion of material so as to anchor the at least a portion of material to the base. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029568 | Spinal connecting members with radiused rigid sleeves and tensioned cords - A spinal implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having hard, non-elastic sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The sleeves include a lower radiused surface for direct engagement with a radiused surface of a shank of the cooperating bone anchor. The sleeves include an aperture for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029569 | Polyaxial Screw - The present invention generally is directed toward a spinal fixation system whereby a coupling element allows the physician to selectively lock or unlock either the connection between the coupling element and a fastener, such as to allow for repositioning of the coupling element, or the connection between the coupling element and an elongate rod. The locking or unlocking of these connections may be made independently and as desired by the physician. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120035662 | ROD SCREW DYNAMIC IMPLANT FOR STABILIZING A VERTEBRAL COLUMN - The invention relates to an implant for supporting a vertebral column, including at least one attachment element ( | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120041490 | VARIABLE OFFSET SPINE FIXATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A minimally invasive system and method for coupling a spinal rod to a plurality of bone anchors implanted into a plurality of vertebral bodies. A plurality of bottom-loading polyaxial anchor seat assemblies having different vertical heights are chosen to pop over the heads of the implanted bone anchors and a spinal rod is more easily introduced and secured to the bone anchors. The variety of different heights that characterize the plurality of polyaxial anchor seat assemblies allows a surgeon to intraoperatively choose the appropriate offset for a particular spinal level during spinal corrections. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041491 | Variable Angle Connection Assembly - In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that can be used to securely connect a spinal implant to a bone anchor. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a variable angle connection assembly that is able to securely connect the spinal implant to the anchors even when there is a variance in the angle and position of the anchors with respect to the spinal implant. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that will not inadvertently lock the components of the connection assembly preventing the relative movement of the components. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041492 | Offset Variable Angle Connection Assembly - In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an offset connection assembly that can be used to securely connect a spinal implant to a bone anchor. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a variable angle connection assembly that is able to securely connect the spinal implant to the anchors even when there is a variance in the angle and position of the anchors with respect to the spinal implant. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that will not inadvertently lock the components of the connection assembly preventing the relative movement of the components. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041493 | STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - The disclosure relates generally to embodiments of systems and methods of spinal stabilization. Embodiments include methods that use a dilator to displace tissue proximate to a sleeve. An embodiment of a surgical system can comprise a dilator that may define a working channel from a first opening to a second opening. The dilator can be positioned to displace tissue proximate to the sleeve. The dilator may be shaped to allow a first end of an elongated member to enter the working channel through the first opening and exit the dilator through the second opening to be percutaneously moved to another assembly. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120046696 | DEFLECTION ROD SYSTEM DIMENSIONED FOR DEFLECTION TO A LOAD CHARACTERISTIC FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION AND MOTION PRESERVATION SPINAL IMPLANTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120059420 | PEDICLE SCREW EXTENSION ALIGNMENT - Alignment clamps, extension caps, and systems, with associated methods, for pedicle screw extension alignment in an orthopedic patient are described. An alignment clamp for alignment of pedicle screw extensions includes a clamp having a hollow interior. The clamp can receive a pedicle screw extension through the hollow interior. The clamp includes opposing open ends in communication with the hollow interior. A straightening rod receptacle is on a side of the clamp. The straightening rod receptacle is oriented to receive a straightening rod therethrough. The straightening rod receptacle can be substantially perpendicular to a direction of the clamp through which the pedicle screw extension is receivable. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120059421 | Polyaxial Vertebral Anchor Assembly with Vertical Adjustment and Split Lock - There is provided a polyaxial vertebral assembly. This assembly includes a polyaxial vertebral anchor and an articulating connector. The polyaxial vertebral anchor is configured to penetrate and secure to a vertebra. The articulating connector has a common trajectory split lock, which is configured to engage rigidly the polyaxial vertebral anchor in a selected pivotal configuration with respect to the polyaxial vertebral anchor and which is further configured to engage rigidly a stabilizing rod at selected configurable height and rotational configuration with respect to the polyaxial vertebral anchor. The pivotal configuration and the height and rotational configuration are independently adjustable through the common trajectory split lock. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120078306 | BONE FIXATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In some embodiments, provided is an apparatus including a first elongated member, the first elongated member including a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the first elongated member is coupled to a first bone portion during use. The apparatus further includes a second elongated member including a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the second elongated member is coupled to a second bone portion during use. The proximal end of the second elongated member comprises a surface that is shaped complementary to a surface of the proximal end of the first elongated member. The apparatus still further includes a locking mechanism coupling the proximal end of the first elongated member to the proximal end of the second elongated member. The locking mechanism is adjustable from an unlocked position to a locked position such that, when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the first elongated member is angularly movable relative to the second elongated member, and when the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the complementary shaped surfaces of the first elongated member and the second elongated member are directly connected and the relative angular position of the first elongated member and the second elongated member is substantially fixed. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120078307 | PEDICLE SCREWS AND DYNAMIC ADAPTORS - The present invention may include a pedicle screw with a multifunctional adaptor, a strain reliever, and a dual-surface cap. The multifunctional adaptor may include a convex pivot ring for improving multi-axial movement and locking stability, an integrated locking mechanism for improving maneuverability, and an integrated compression member for improving the assembly process. The strain reliever may be formed along a neck of the pedicle screw for relieving mechanical stress asserted thereto, and thereby preventing a breakage thereof. The dual-surface cap may provide a slightly sloped surface for reducing the tension of the stabilizing rod. The present invention may also provide for a dynamic adaptor for flexibly connecting two stabilizing rods, which may be versatilely adapted to various pedicle screw configurations. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120078308 | ROD REDUCTION INSTRUMENT AND METHODS OF ROD REDUCTION - An instrument for reducing a spinal rod includes a reduction member sized and shaped to be positioned about an anchor extension connected to a bone anchor, an actuator assembly connected to the reduction member and operable to move the reduction member distally relative to the anchor extension along a longitudinal axis of the anchor extension, and a connection mechanism for removable and replaceable connection of the actuator assembly to a proximal end of the anchor extension. The connection mechanism is adjustable between a first position in which the connection mechanism connects the actuator assembly to the proximal end of the anchor extension and a second position in which the connection mechanism and the actuator assembly are released from the anchor extension. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120083845 | COMPOUND SPINAL ROD AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - Compound spinal rods function as part of the dynamic stabilization prosthesis to provide load sharing with motion preservation as part of a dynamic stabilization prosthesis. Compound spinal rods are used to span from one vertebra to an adjacent vertebra. Compound spinal rods include a first rod connected by a linkage to a second rod. The linkage allows for movement of the first rod relative to the second rod. The movement permitted by the compound spinal rod is designed to enhance the ability of a dynamic stabilization prosthesis to more closely approximate the natural kinematics of the spine without impairing stabilization of the spine. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120089190 | Apparatus for Minimally Invasive Posterior Correction of Spinal Deformity - An apparatus is operable to correct spinal deformities caused by scoliosis and the like. The apparatus may be used in a minimally invasive fashion and through the posterior side of the patient. A combination of internal screws and rods, as well as external pins, rods, and correction mechanisms, are used to obtain facet unlocking and translational correction of the affected vertebrae. The internal rods are inserted percutaneously and are secured to the affected vertebrae to maintain the deformity correction. External components are then removed, and the small incisions are sutured. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120101529 | ROD ATTACHEMENT FOR HEAD TO HEAD CONNECTOR - Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120109208 | Low Profile Extension Attachments for Bone Anchors - Systems and methods for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column include at least one anchor assembly having an anchor engageable to bony structure and a receiver for receiving the connecting member. An elongated extension is removably engaged to the receiver and extends proximally from the receiver. The extension and at least a portion of the receiver is removable from the remaining portion of the receiver of the bone anchor after the connecting member is positioned in the receiver to provide a low profile anchor and connecting member assembly when finally implanted in the patient. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109209 | Spinal Connector Assembly - A spinal connector assembly includes a connector body having a first receiver portion defining a first passage for receiving a first implant member, a second receiver portion defining a second passage for receiving a second implant member, and a threaded portion extending axially from the second receiver portion. A washer member is rotationally coupled with the connector body to permit rotational movement about the rotational axis and translational movement along the rotational axis, and includes a transverse channel generally aligned with the second passage of the connector body. A lock member is threadingly engaged with the threaded portion of the connector body such that threading engagement of the lock member along the threaded portion exerts an axial force onto the second implant member to compress the second implant member within the channel in the washer member which in turn displaces the washer member into compressed engagement with the first implant member to thereby lock the washer member and the second implant member at a select angular orientation relative to the connector body, and the axial force also compresses the first implant member into clamped engagement within the first passage of the connector body. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109210 | Connector for Connecting Elongated Members - A connector for connecting together elongated members in a side-by-side arrangement. The connector includes a first receptacle for connecting to the first elongated member, and a second receptacle for connecting to the second elongated member. The angular position of the second receptacle may be adjustable relative to the first receptacle to accommodate the elongated members. Further, the connector may be configured to extend between the elongated members and the patient when the connector is implanted in a patient. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109211 | Vertebral column implant for stabilization and stiffening of vertebral bodies of a vertebral column - A vertebral column implant for stabilization and stiffening of vertebral bodies of a vertebral column comprises first bone screws and second bone screws. First rigid connecting elements, are fixed in the first receiving means of the first bone screws. Second elastic connecting elements are fixed in second receiving means of the second bone screws. Each first connecting element is connectible to a second connecting element via coupling means. The coupling means are attached in a releasable way to a second bone screw, in which an end region of a second connecting element is held. The coupling means are connectible to an end region of a first connecting element. By means of this design, a rigid region of the vertebral column implant can be decoupled in a simple way from an elastic stabilizing region of the vertebral column implant. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120116456 | SPINAL IMPLANT SET INCLUDING A QUICK CLOSURE - Spinal implant comprising a quick closure ( | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120123477 | SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A spinal stabilization system may be formed in a patient. In some embodiments, a minimally invasive procedure may be used to form a spinal stabilization system in a patient Bone fastener assemblies may be coupled to vertebrae Each bone fastener assembly may include a bone fastener and a collar. The collar may be rotated and/or angulated relative to the bone fastener. Detachable members may be coupled to the collar to allow for formation of the spinal stabilization system through a small skin incision. The detachable members may allow for alignment of the collars to facilitate insertion of an elongated member in the collars. An elongated member may be positioned in the collars and a closure member may be used to secure the elongated member to the collars. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120123478 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The spine stabilization prosthesis incorporates a bone anchor having a deflectable post and a compound spinal rod which provide for load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a bone screw. The compound spinal rod includes a coupling mounted to the deflectable post and connected by a pivoting joint to a rod. The combined motions of the ball-joint and the pivoting joint support a range of motion of adjacent vertebrae which closely approximates the natural range of motion of the spine. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120130430 | EXTRA-DISCAL INTERVERTEBRAL STABILIZATION DEVICE - An extra-discal device for intervertebral stabilization includes at least one rigid part connected to pedicle screws by an element. This rigid part comprises a cylindrical body, each end of which is firmly attached to the element which is flexible and deformable so as to be linked to a part of a corresponding pedicle screw with reduced play to obtain a limited range of multidirectional movement in the sagittal, horizontal and frontal planes, while limiting translational movement to the axis of the screw. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120143256 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The bone anchor has a deflectable ball-rod partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the ball-rod and partially within the housing operates to align the ball-rod with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the ball-rod bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the ball-rod. The centering rod includes an inner-superelastic core and an outer polymer sheath. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120143257 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A CANNULATED BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A cannulated bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The cannulated bone anchor has a deflectable ball-rod partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the ball-rod and partially within the housing operates to align the ball-rod with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the ball-rod bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the ball-rod. The centering rod includes an inner-superelastic core and an outer polymer sheath. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120143258 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A CANNULATED BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A cannulated bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The cannulated bone anchor has a deflectable post partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the post and partially within the housing operates to align the post with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the post bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the post. The centering rod includes an inner-superelastic core and an outer polymer sheath. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120150232 | Friction Set Screw For Use With Spinal Implant Systems - A set screw for use in association with spinal implant assemblies. The set screw includes a threaded base portion extending along a longitudinal axis and formed of a first material, and a friction member extending from a distal end of the threaded base portion and formed of a second material different from the first material. In one embodiment, the spinal implant assembly includes a connector member having a passage and an opening in communication with the passage, and an elongate support member positioned within the passage of the connector member. The set screw is threadedly engaged to the connector member and at least partially positioned within the opening, with a distal end portion of the friction member extending into the passage and compressed against an outer surface of the elongate support member to inhibit movement of the elongate support member within the passage. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120179205 | CONNECTOR APPARATUS AND METHOD - A spinal stabilization apparatus and method according to which a fastener is engaged with a bone structure of a spinal system. The fastener is connected to a rod by moving the rod downward toward the fastener in a sagittal plane, and the direction of extension of at least a portion of the rod in a coronal plane may be selectively adjusted in predetermined angular increments through 360 degrees. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120184995 | Linked Spinal Stabilization Elements for Spinal Fixation - Apparatus, methods, systems, procedures and implants for linking two or more anchors engaged to two or more vertebrae of a spinal column are provided. The systems include a plate assembly to stabilize one or more vertebral levels with first and second plate segments pivotally coupled to one another between anchors engaged to respective vertebrae of the vertebral level. The plate segments are manipulated to secure the plate segments to the respective vertebrae and lock the plate segments in position relative to one another. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120184996 | VERTEBRAL COLUMN IMPLANT - A vertebral column implant comprises a connecting element, which is insertable in the vertebral bodies of a vertebral column via several bone screws. The screws are each provided with a head part for receiving the connecting element, by means of which a firm connection is achievable between bone screws and connecting element. The connecting element is composed of rigid sections and elastic sections. Here the rigid sections are connectible to the elastic sections via connecting devices. The connecting devices are designed such that the rigid sections and the elastic sections, in each case connected to one another, are aligned substantially coaxially, and their connection is form-fitting. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120197298 | VERTEBRAL FIXING SYSTEM - A vertebral fixing system suitable for being mounted on a vertebra of the spine for connecting it to a rod. The system includes: a connecting part suitable for being connected to the rod, a flexible ligature of elongate shape having two free ends suitable for connecting together the connecting part and at least a portion of a vertebra and/or a rib, and an adjustable locking member mounted on the connecting part. The connecting part defines at least one passageway for passing the ligature in such a manner that two distinct strands of the ligature can be engaged in the passageway so that the two strands of the ligature define a first ligature portion forming a loop extending from one side of the connecting part, and second and third ligature portions extending from the other side of the connecting part. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120209331 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOCKING A SCREW WITH A BENDABLE PLATE PORTION - A spinal device for stabilizing adjacent vertebral bodies of the human spine. The device includes a combination of a screw and a member having a screw hole and a length sufficient to span a disc space between the adjacent vertebral bodies. The member has a portion that is bendable or deformable to prevent the outward excursion of the screw from the screw hole of the member. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120221055 | Spine Fixation System - A spine fixation system ( | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120221056 | APPARATUS FOR LINKING IMPLANTS AND REDUCING DEFORMITIES - An apparatus for connecting a pair of bone screws of a vertebral level includes a first end member, a second end member, and a transverse member. The first end member includes a track for removably attaching to a head of a first one of the bone screws. The second end member includes a track for removably attaching to a head of a second one of the bone screws. The transverse member connects the first and second end members. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120221057 | Spinal Rod Link Reducer - The present invention includes a rod link reducer of a spinal fixation system that includes a first and a second spinal rod manipulator; a first spinal rod manipulator joint connected to the first spinal rod manipulator and a second spinal rod manipulator joint connected to the second spinal rod manipulator; a first and a second translatable transverse shaft connected to the first and second joints, respectively; and a universal reducer connected to both the first and second translatable transverse shafts, wherein the universal reducer, the shafts and the linkers provide movement and temporary fixation of a spine that has been manipulated into a final position during spinal surgery. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120221058 | Torque Limited Instrument For Manipulating A Spinal Rod Relative to a Bone Anchor - An instrument for adjusting a spinal rod relative to a bone anchor includes a handle connecting a set screw driver with a reduction collar. The handle includes an inner shaft engageable with the set screw driver, an outer shaft engageable with the reduction collar, and a clutch connecting the inner shaft to the outer shaft and permitting selective rotation of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft, and thus, selective rotation of the set screw driver relative to the reduction collar, upon application of a torque to the reduction collar and the outer shaft greater than a preselected torque value. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120226317 | MULTI-AXIAL SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - A spinal fixation system includes a rod and anchor devices that include a bone engaging fastener having a head defining a spherical socket. A ball insert is placed within the socket and rotated so that the ball insert is juxtaposed with the socket. The anchor device further includes a yoke defining a yoke channel for receiving the rod and a stem engaged to the ball insert captured within the socket. A sleeve disposed between the yoke channel and the fastener head supports the rod. A set screw is operable to clamp the rod against the sleeve and draw the insert into engagement within the socket. A releasable detent defined between the yoke and the fastener head is configured to releasably retain the yoke in at least one discrete position relative to the fastener. Portions of the releasable detent may also exert a frictional retention force against the fastener head. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120226318 | MEDICAL DEVICE, APPARATUS, AND SURGICAL METHOD - A pedicle anchor device is provided and is equipped for being used like a pedicle screw, i.e. for being implanted in the vertebra from dorsal direction (but generally at an angle to the sagittal plane, slightly inward towards the sagittal plane) through the pedicle so that a distal portion of the device protrudes into the vertebral body. The pedicle anchor device includes a pedicle anchor device body with a head portion, a shaft portion and a longitudinal bore that extends from a proximal end of the pedicle anchor device body and has a hole or a plurality of holes from the longitudinal bore outward, for example radially outward. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120239090 | SPINAL MOTION PRESERVATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - Orthopedic implants are adapted to replace the function of a natural disc of the spine. In an embodiment, the implant can be placed across the disc space through a trans-pedicular corridor using a substantially posterior surgical approach. In another embodiment, an implant can be placed across the disc space at a different level through a substantially lateral or anterior approach. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120245640 | POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW AND FIXATION SYSTEM KIT COMPRISING THE SCREW - A polyaxial pedicle screw may include a receiving head having a transversal U-shaped passage, and a shank having a threaded portion external to the receiving head, and a bulging end rotatable housed within the receiving head. The polyaxial pedicle screw may include a locking insert housed within the receiving head and matable with the bulging end, for locking it into position, and a set-screw engaged in the distal aperture for locking a connecting rod received within the transversal U-shaped passage. The receiving head of the polyaxial screw may include a lateral aperture, the lateral aperture exposing a contact surface of the locking insert in such a way that external pressing component can act on the contact surface to maintain the locking insert into its locking position. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120253398 | SACROILIAC TERMINAL ANCHOR DEVICE AND METHOD - A spinal stabilization apparatus and method according to which an anchor element is engaged with a bone structure of a spinal system. The anchor element defines a reservoir adapted to contain a bone-growth promoting material and the reservoir is in fluid communication with the bone structure via at least one aperture defined in the anchor element. A rod-connecting element extend from the anchor element and is adapted to extend outward from the bone structure to engage at least a portion of a rod when the rod extends within a vicinity of the spinal system and the bone structure. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120253399 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR VERTEBRAE STABILIZATION AND CURVATURE CORRECTION, AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - An apparatus, system and kit of components useful as a stabilization or correction system for a spinal column, especially in the field of pediatrics. A threaded rod is used that can be straight, rigid, bent or flexible depending on the body condition to be addressed. The rod may be bent or flexible to achieve varying degrees of lordosis (backward curvature) or kyphosis (forward curvature) before being affixed to the anchoring means and apparatus. The straightness, curvature, bent, or flexibility of rod depends upon the location along the spinal column. Once installed to the vertebrae, the rod provides the proper, desired curvature and stabilization for the spinal column. Sharp edges and corners of the apparatus are eliminated by rounding the edges and corners. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120253400 | VERTEBRAL COLUMN IMPLANT - A vertebral column implant for stabilizing and stiffening of vertebral bodies of a vertebral column comprises at least one first and at least one second bone screw, which is screwable into a vertebral body. A first rigid connecting element is insertable into first receiving means of the first bone screw. A second elastic connecting element is insertable into second receiving means of the second bone screw. The connecting means are installed on a further bone screw and comprise a first and second clamping device for respectively holding tightly the first and second connecting element. The first clamping device has a U-shaped receiving part for the end region of the first connecting element, which is designed spherical, a clamping means being placeable on the U-shaped receiving part, with which clamping means the spherical end region is able to be clamped against the bottom surface of the U-shaped receiving part. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120253401 | VERTEBRAL COLUMN IMPLANT FOR STABILIZATION AND STIFFENING OF VERTEBRAL BODIES OF A VERTEBRAL COLUMN - A vertebral column implant for stabilizing and stiffening of vertebral bodies of a vertebral column comprises at least one first bone screw, screwable into a vertebral body, and at least one second bone screw. A first rigid connecting element, is insertable into first receiving means of the first bone screw. A second elastic connecting element, is insertable into second receiving means of the second bone screw. The connecting means comprise two arms, which form a U-shaped recess. Insertable into a first region of the U-shaped recess is an end region of a first connecting element. Insertable into a second region of the U-shaped recess is an end region of a second connecting element. Inserted between the two arms is a pressing element. Placed on the arms and are clamping means, with which the pressing element is pressed against two end regions of the first and second connecting elements. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120253402 | PEDICLE SCREW EXTENSION FOR USE IN PERCUTANEOUS SPINAL FIXATION - A bone screw extension assembly for use in placing a connecting rod percutaneously into tissue of a patient comprises a multi-axial bone screw and a screw extension releasably coupled to yoke of the bone screw. The screw extension includes coaxially disposed outer sleeve and inner sleeves that are movable axially relative to each other. A screw engaging member projects radially from the distal end of the inner sleeve and is configured to releasably engage an extension coupling surface on the inner surface of opposed upstanding arms of the yoke. A securement member including cooperative surfaces is defined adjacent the distal end of the inner and outer sleeves that is operable upon relative axial movement of the inner and outer sleeves to radially secure the sleeves together for minimization of splaying and to thereby maintain the engagement of the screw engaging member and the bone screw. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120271355 | ELONGATED CONNECTING ELEMENTS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus and methods include an elongate connecting element including a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and an opposite second end. The connecting element includes a first end portion at its first end and a second end portion at its second end. The connecting element includes a length between the first and second ends sized to extend between and be engaged to first and second anchors engageable to bony portions of the spinal column. The first and second end portions are positioned on opposite sides of the first and second anchors and project outwardly from the body of the connecting element to capture the first and second anchors between the first and second end portions. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120277798 | Spinal Rod Construct to Limit Facet Impingement - A spinal rod includes an elongate member and an end feature. The elongate member has a diameter. The end feature is configured to be selectively connected to the elongate member. The end feature includes an extending member that projects radially away from the elongate member. The radial extent has an outer distance greater than the diameter of the elongate member. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120277799 | LOW PROFILE SPINAL PROSTHESIS INCORPORATING A BONE ANCHOR HAVING A DEFLECTABLE POST AND A COMPOUND SPINAL ROD - A bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The bone anchor has a deflectable ball-rod partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the ball-rod and partially within the housing operates to align the ball-rod with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the ball-rod bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the ball-rod. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120290010 | Flexible Screw Head Constructs for Spinal Stabilization - Devices and systems related to an improved spinal pedicle based construct are disclosed herein along with the related method of manufacturing and operation thereof. The improved spinal pedicle based construct may include a flexible membrane(s) or mechanism(s) incorporated between the anchoring component and the longitudinal membrane. The flexible membrane(s) incorporated may provide controlled motion of the functional spine unit connected to the anchoring component with respect to the posterior construct. Moreover, when the patient moves his or her back, the flexible membrane(s) may also divert a force away from the anchoring component, thereby reducing the chances of bone cracking. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120310284 | POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW - A spinal stabilization assembly is provided and includes a cup, fastener and keeper portions surrounding the head of the fastener. Further, methods of use of a spinal stabilization assembly are also provided. The keeper portions are located within the cup and at least partially surround the head of the fastener. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120310285 | AUTOMATIC-EXTENDING AND ANTI-ROTATION SCOLIOSIS CORRECTING SYSTEM - A spontaneous-extending and anti-rotation scoliosis correcting system comprises pedicle screws and a plurality of correcting rods locked with the pedicle screws. Each correcting rod includes at least one sleeve and at least one inserting rod which can be inserted into the sleeve. The inner wall of the sleeve and the inserting rod are the same in shape and are in clearance fit. A positioning mechanism for restricting the relative rotation of the inserting rod with respect to the sleeve is arranged on a matching surface between the inserting rod and the sleeve. The scoliosis correcting system has the benefits of ensuring the lateral stability and the anti-rotation function for scoliosis correction; having the performance of spontaneous extending along the growth direction of the spine; and ensuring both the short-term operating effect and the long-term curative effect. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120323278 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A spinal fixation assembly includes a pedicle rod and pedicle screws which secure the pedicle rod to the spine. Each pedicle screw includes a head configured to receive a portion of the pedicle rod, and a threaded portion extending from a first end of the head and configured to engage a vertebra. The pedicle rod is secured to the head by a fastener. The head includes a breakaway region that defines a location in which at least a first portion of the head can be easily separated from the remainder of the head upon application of sufficient force to the first portion. A minimally invasive method of implanting the spinal fixation assembly is disclosed. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20130012997 | FLEXIBLE MEMBER WITH VARIABLE FLEXIBILITY FOR PROVIDING DYNAMIC STABILITY TO A SPINE - The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a first material having a first portion including a first material having a first elasticity and a second portion including a second material having a second elasticity greater than the first to provide the flexible member with a variable flexibility. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130018419 | SPINAL ROD SYSTEM AND METHODAANM Rezach; William AlanAACI AtokaAAST TNAACO USAAGP Rezach; William Alan Atoka TN USAANM May; JasonAACI CordovaAAST TNAACO USAAGP May; Jason Cordova TN US - A spinal rod system includes a first instrument extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion along a longitudinal axis thereof. The proximal portion defines an inner cavity extending along the longitudinal axis. The first instrument includes a first arm extending along the longitudinal axis. The first arm defines a portion of a vertebral construct cavity disposed in communication with the inner cavity and includes a distal end being configured to engage a bone fastener. Methods of use are disclosed. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130023935 | Uniplanar Screw - A spinal stabilization system for surgical implantation in the spine having a bone fastener. The bone fastener is provided with a head portion and a shaft portion. A housing is also provided with a recess defined by sidewalls and an opening for receiving the head portion of the bone fastener. A seating element is disposed within the housing and positioned over the head portion of the bone fastener. An elongate rod is positioned on the seating element within the recess of the housing. The system also includes a cap capable of engaging with a top portion of the housing and capturing the elongate rod within the recess of the housing when the cap is rotated. The bone fastener articulates in a single plane with respect to the housing and the seat element. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130030469 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR SPINAL FIXATION - Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for spinal fixation. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130030470 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR SPINAL FIXATION - Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for spinal fixation. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130053891 | REVISABLE ORTHOPEDIC ANCHOR AND METHODS OF USE - A revisable orthopedic anchor and method of use for removably securing an anchor in bone, such as compromised or degenerated bone, is described herein. In one embodiment, the anchor makes use of dual probes and vector divergence of the distal tips of the probes to achieve superior bone purchase and pull-out resistance. In such an embodiment, the probes can be inserted one at a time into a hole formed in, for example, the pedicle bone. After the probes are inserted and joined at the proximal end, they have a greater pull-out resistance than a threaded anchor. Removing the anchor involves separating the proximal heads and reversing the implantation process. As a result of the unique bone anchor design disclosed herein, the devices and methods of the present invention allow for less complicated implantation and removal of orthopedic anchors, all while providing enhanced bone purchase when implanted in a patient. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130053892 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CERVICAL MIDLINE FIXATION - Devices and methods for enhancing the effectiveness of spinal stabilization, and particularly that of cervical spinal stabilization, are provided herein. More specifically, methods and systems are disclosed for effectively positioning occipital plates and spinal fixation assemblies within target vertebrae, while also reducing any associated patient trauma (e.g., muscle stripping, tissue damage, etc.). The systems and methods can utilize trans-lamina delivery of the spinal fixation assemblies to allow for the positioning of the fixation elements along the midline of the patient's spine. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130079826 | SPINAL ROD AND BONE SCREW CAPS FOR SPINAL SYSTEMS ASSEMBLIES - A threaded cap or c-clip that attaches to a spinal rod or bone screw. Such a threaded cap or c-clip prevents slippage of the spinal system assemblies along or off their rods or bone screws during intra- or post-operative periods. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130079827 | SPINAL ROD PERSUADER - Methods, systems, and devices for pulling a spinal vertebra toward a spinal rod are provided. One spinal rod persuasion system includes a cord configured to engage a pedicle screw installed in a spinal vertebra. The system also includes a tensioner configured to engage the cord and a spinal rod, and to apply tension to the cord to pull the pedicle screw toward the spinal rod. One method includes installing a pedicle screw in a spinal vertebra, affixing a cord to the pedicle screw, coupling the cord to a tensioner, coupling a spinal rod to the tensioner, and pulling the pedicle screw toward the spinal rod. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130090691 | PEDICLE SCREW HAVING A REMOVABLE ROD COUPLING - The present invention provides a pedicle screw for spinal fixation having a bone fastener portion a permanent rod coupling, a breakaway portion connected to the permanent rod coupling and a temporary rod coupling. A permanent rod can be positioned in the permanent rod coupling and a temporary rod can be positioned in the temporary rod coupling and when the temporary rod is not needed the temporary rod coupling can be removed by separation at a breakaway portion. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130096616 | ANTI-SPLAY MEMBER FOR BONE FASTENER - An anti-splay member is configured for engagement with a bone fastener and includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a threaded cavity extending along the longitudinal axis. The cavity is configured for engagement with a screw. Opposing retainer members extend transversely from the body and are configured to engage a proximal end of the bone fastener to prevent radial expansion of the proximal end. At least one locking member extends from the body and is configured for engagement with the proximal end of the bone fastener. Methods of use are disclosed. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130123852 | Cervical Spine Retractor - A cervical retractor includes a bi-folded body; a pair of primary pegs extending outward from the bi-folded body and in a first direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the bi-folded body; and a secondary peg extending outward from the bi-folded body in a second direction substantially opposite to the first direction and substantially linear with the pair of primary pegs. The bi-folded body includes a middle panel and a pair of side flanking panels, and each flanking panel includes a tab extending from a bottom portion of the flanking panel; and a pair of slots flanking the tab. The pair of slots aligns with the pair of primary pegs when the side flanking panels fold onto the middle panel, and the slots permit the primary pegs to outwardly extend there through. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130123853 | SPINAL CORRECTION AND SECONDARY STABILIZATION - Methods of correcting a spinal deformity, including securing a first rod on a first side of a spine, securing an anchor on a second side of a spine, securing a lateral coupling between the rod and the anchor, translating and derotating the spine to correct the spinal deformity by adjusting an effective length of the lateral coupling, and securing a second rod on a second side of the spine to provide secondary stabilization to the spine. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130123854 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SPINAL STABILIZATION THROUGH MUTLI-HEAD SPINAL SCREWS - Embodiments of present invention disclose spinal screws having first and second heads for a versatile screw-rod construct to achieve spinal stabilization for patients with unstable spines. The first and second heads are used to connect first and second rods at the same bone anchor location. The first and second heads can accept rods of different diameter, materials and/or stiffness in order to accommodate the anatomical needs of the spine of a patient. Further, the first and second heads can positioned side by side to accommodate parallel rods or perpendicular to each other to accommodate rods with cross link rods. Further, the position of the first and second heads can be adjusted relative to each other. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130123855 | SPINAL COLUMN IMPLANT WITH PEDICLE SCREWS, AND THE CORRESPONDING PEDICLE SCREW - A spinal column implant, comprising a connection element ( | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130138153 | Dynamic stabilization assembly having pre-compressed spacers with differential displacements - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core extending through at least two elastic spacers and at least one outer sleeve or trolley. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. The spacers have differing durometers and/or geometries, resulting in greater axial movement of the sleeve in one direction than in an opposite direction. The spacers are compressed prior to attachment to the bone anchors. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130158605 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE AND BONE STABILIZATION DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME - A bone anchoring device, includes a receiving part for receiving a rod-shaped implant element, the receiving part having a first bore coaxial with a longitudinal axis and extending from a first end of the receiving part, and a recess extending from the first end to accomplish insertion of the rod-shaped implant element. The device further includes a bone screw having a threaded section for insertion into the bone and being fixed at or positionable at a second end of the receiving part and a fixation element provided to the first bore to fixate a rigid section of the rod-shaped implant element. The rigid section of the rod-shaped implant element has a first width, and the recess of the receiving part has a second width. The second width is larger than the first width, such that the recess may accommodate a stepped portion of the rod-shaped implant element that has an increased thickness. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130158606 | SPINAL IMPLANT SET FOR THE DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A connection element ( | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130190822 | SOINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - An implant reducer comprises a first arm including a first member and a second member. The second member includes an inner surface that defines a first implant engaging portion. A second arm includes a first member and a second member. The second member of the second arm includes a connector and a second implant engaging portion. The first members are connected and the connector is movably disposed in a longitudinal cavity. The first members are relatively rotatable to move the arms between a first configuration, a second configuration such that the first implant engaging portion is disposed adjacent the second implant engaging portion and a third configuration such that the connector translates relative to the inner surface and the second implant engaging portion translates relative to the first implant engaging portion. Methods of use are disclosed. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130197583 | Spinal Anchoring Screw - A spine stabilization system includes at least one bone anchor assembly, the bone anchor assembly including a bone engaging member and a receiver member, wherein the receiver member includes a connecting member cavity, and an elongated connecting member inserted into the connecting member cavity and connected to the receiver member, wherein the connecting member comprises locking features configured to secure the connecting member to the receiver member without the use of a fixation screw extending through a top portion of the receiver member. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130211456 | CONNECTOR AND FASTENER SYSTEM - An implant system comprises a fastener including a proximal portion including an inner surface that defines a first cavity that defines a first axis and a distal portion configured for penetrating tissue and defining a longitudinal axis disposed transverse to the first axis. A connector extends between a first end and a second end configured for disposal in the first cavity. A receiver is attachable to the first end and includes an implant cavity defining a second axis. The implant cavity is rotatable about a third axis disposed transverse to the second axis such that an implant disposed in the implant cavity and posterior to the first end is rotatable in a first plane relative to the first end in a configuration for selective fixation with the first end. Methods of use are disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130211457 | VERTEBRAL IMPLANT AND CONNECTOR - An implant system comprises a fastener including a proximal portion including an inner surface that defines a first cavity that defines a first axis and a distal portion configured for penetrating tissue and defining a longitudinal axis disposed transverse to the first axis. A connector extends between a first end and a second end configured for disposal in the first cavity. A receiver is attachable to the first end and includes an implant cavity defining a second axis. The implant cavity is rotatable about a third axis disposed transverse to the second axis such that an implant disposed in the implant cavity and lateral to the first end is rotatable in a first plane relative to the first end in a configuration for selective fixation with the first end. Methods of use are disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130211458 | BONE FASTENER AND METHODS OF USE - A bone fastener comprises a proximal portion including an extension that includes an inner surface defining at least one projection. A pivoting member is moveable relative to the proximal portion. The pivoting member includes a first surface that defines an implant cavity with the inner surface of the proximal portion. A component is configured for disposal of the extension and includes at least one planar surface. A distal portion has a first end and a second end configured to penetrate tissue. The first end includes at least one planar surface configured to engage the at least one planar surface of the component. The proximal portion is rotatable relative to the distal portion in a first plane of a body and the pivoting member is rotatable relative to the proximal portion in a second plane of the body. Methods of use are disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130226243 | PEDICLE SCREW AND DEVICE AND METHOD FOR STABILIZING THE SPINAL COLUMN - A pedicle screw has a screw shaft and a screw head connected thereto. The screw head has a center longitudinal axis extending in an X-direction. The screw further has a recess for receiving a connecting rod with a circular cross-section, a fixing screw that is used to fix the connecting rod in the screw head, a clamping unit between the fixing screw and a head base and an intermediate element. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130238030 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LINKING IMPLANTS AND REDUCING DEFORMITIES - A system for linking bone anchors and reducing spinal deformities includes a first pair of bone screws, a first cross-link, a second pair of bone screws, a second cross-link, and a longitudinal member. The first pair of bone screws attach to opposite sides of a first vertebral level. The first cross-link includes end members that removably attach to heads of the first pair of bone screws and a first coupling feature disposed between the end members. The second pair of bone screws attach to opposite sides of a second vertebral level. The second cross-link includes end members that removably attach to heads of the first pair of bone screws and a second coupling feature disposed between the end members. The longitudinal member links the first coupling feature to the second coupling feature to enable simultaneous positioning of the first vertebral level with the second vertebral level. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130245689 | CONNECTING ROD FOR BONE ANCHORS HAVING A BIORESORBABLE TIP - The invention provides a connecting rod for bone anchors such as pedicle screws. The rod is constructed to include a main shaft portion that is not bioresorbable and a tip portion that is bioresorbable. The tip facilitates percutaneous insertion into a patient's body. After placement of the rod, the bioresorbable tip is resorbed preventing post-operative complications such as impingement of adjacent spinal facet joints. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130274804 | INSTRUMENT FOR INSERTION OF A SPINAL ROD - A spinal stabilization system, method, and a surgical kit having a surgical extender apparatus for implanting a surgical screw are disclosed. The extender includes a housing having a distal end and a proximal end, a hollow interior passageway disposed between the distal end and the proximal end, a channel disposed along an exterior surface of the housing at least partially between the distal end and the proximal end and configured to at least partially expose the hollow interior passageway, an interior locking mechanism disposed on an interior surface of the housing and substantially adjacent the proximal end, wherein the interior locking mechanism is configured to allow attachment of at least one surgical tool, and at least one flexible member disposed substantially adjacent the distal end. The housing is configured to accommodate placement of a surgical screw implant. The surgical screw implant is secured to the housing using a mating feature in the surgical screw implant. The at least one flexible member is configured to retain the surgical screw implant. The mating feature is configured to control axial movement of the surgical screw implant. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130274805 | Polyaxial bone screw assembly - A polyaxial bone screw assembly for capturing a rod includes a receiver, a threaded shank body having an upper capture portion mated with a retaining and articulating structure, a compression insert and a closure having a domed bottom. The closure captures and fixes the rod within the receiver between the domed bottom and the compression insert, the insert pressing on the retaining and articulating structure to fix such structure against the receiver. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130304128 | ILIAC CONNECTOR, CONNECTOR HEAD, SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF STABILIZING A SPINE - An inventive iliac connector comprises a connector head ( | 11-14-2013 |
| 20140025118 | ROD CONTOURING APPARATUS FOR PERCUTANEOUS PEDICLE SCREW EXTENSION - Anatomic points within the body are projected outside the body through the use of extenders ( | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140031869 | BONE STABILIZATION MEMBER WITH BONE SCREW RETENTION MECHANISM - A spinal implant for stabilizing first and second vertebrae. The spinal implant includes an intervertebral spacer and a bone stabilization member configured to be coupled to the intervertebral spacer. The bone stabilization member includes a plurality of bone screw openings and a plurality of bone screws extendable through the bone screw openings to secure the bone stabilization member to the vertebrae. A retention member, which is slidably coupled to the bone stabilization member, is linearly slidable between a first position and a second position while coupled to the bone stabilization member. In the first position, each of the bone screws is permitted to be inserted into the bone screw openings, and in the second position the retention member at least partially covers each of the bone screw openings to prevent a bone screw from backing out of the respective bone screw opening. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031870 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system, according to one aspect, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, the anchor rod having one or more spring-biased tabs disposed at one end thereof, and a connector having first end and a second end, the first end having a receiving cup configured for detachable mounting on the anchor rod, wherein the one or more spring-biased tabs are configured to engage with an inner surface of the receiving cup, the connector having a second end operatively coupled to an end of a first member and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031871 | ROD CONTOURING METHOD FOR PERCUTANEOUS PEDICLE SCREW EXTENSION - Anatomic points within the body are projected outside the body through the use of extenders ( | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031872 | SPINAL FIXATION TOOL SET AND METHOD - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Each end guide tool includes a laterally extending, rigid, rod holding structure located near a bottom surface thereof. For bone screw implantation, the end guide tools and intermediate guide tools are assembled with a driver. For reducing a rod into the bone screw, a rod pusher is deployed that is coaxial with a respective guide tool and includes an outer sleeve that abuts the rod as the sleeve is translated along the guide tool and toward the bone screw. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031873 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A spinal implant tool set includes end guide tools having flexible back wall flaps that receive opposite ends of the rod and intermediate guide tools that hold the rod in intermediate locations between the end guide tools. Both the end and intermediate guide tools include an attachment structure for operably connecting the guide tool to a bone screw. A multi-function installation tool and a bone screw driver each mate and cooperate with the guide tools. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140039555 | LONGITUDINAL CONNECTING MEMBER WITH SLEEVED TENSIONED CORDS - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140046373 | SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method for stabilizing the spine at the level of one or more vertebrae includes the step of inserting a pedicle connector through the pedicle of a vertebra from one of the anterior side and posterior side of the vertebra to the other of the anterior side and the posterior side of the vertebra. The pedicle connector is secured to a stabilization construct positioned adjacent to either the anterior side or posterior side of the vertebra. The process is repeated for the opposite side of the pedicle connector. A system for stabilizing the spine and a pedicle connector are also disclosed. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140052187 | SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - An extender comprises a first extension including a first wall and extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The first wall defines an axial cavity including a distal portion, at least one ramp and a proximal portion. A second extension includes a projection. The projection is disposable in a first position with the distal portion of the axial cavity and the distal end of the first extension is disposed in a non-expanded orientation. The projection is slidably engageable with the at least one ramp for movement to a second position such that the projection is disposed with the proximal portion of the axial cavity and the distal end of the first extension is disposed in an expanded orientation. Methods of use are disclosed. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140052188 | Apparatus for Occipital-Cervical Fixation Enabling Supplemental Occipital Bone Fixation - An apparatus for stabilization of a patient's head relative to the patient's neck joint includes an occi-cervical base member having a “C”-shaped central part and first and second attachment rods respectively connected to and extending transversely from free ends of the central part. An occiput attachment has a first end slideably engaged to the central part and a flat, straight second end that extends radially outwardly relative to the first end. First and second polyaxial screw heads are adapted to be implanted in first and second occipital condyles of a patient, respectively. The first and second polyaxial screw heads are adapted to engage first and second stabilizing rods, respectively, that are placed in-line with the cervical spine of a patient and to engage the first and second attachment rods, respectively. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140074169 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A spinal correction system comprises a fixation element including a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion includes a wall that defines a cavity and at least one post including a first portion and a second portion having a center. The fixation element further includes a locking element engageable with the wall to dispose the second portion in the cavity. A connector defines a first cavity configured for disposal of a longitudinal element and a second cavity configured for disposal of the first portion. The fixation element is moveable between a first orientation such that the first portion is rotatable to a selected angle about the center in a plurality of planes relative to the distal portion and a second orientation such that the locking element fixes the first portion in a selected position relative to the distal portion. Methods of use are disclosed. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140094851 | Device and Method for Treatment of Spinal Deformity - The present invention generally relates to methods and device for treatment of spinal deformity, wherein at least one tether is utilized to maintain the distance between the spine and the an ilium to (1) prevent increase in abnormal spinal curvature, (2) slow progression of abnormal curvature, or (3) impose at least one corrective displacement and/or rotation. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140094852 | Spinal Stabilization Device - A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device that includes: a longitudinal member having first and second ends and a flexible member interposed between the first and second ends, at least one of the first end and second end configured to be engaged by a first bone securing member; and at least one spacer located between the first and second ends, the spacer comprising a resilient element and a ring element encircling at least a portion of the resilient element, wherein the ring element is configured to be engaged by a second bone securing member. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140107706 | UNIVERSAL ROD HOLDER - A universal rod holder including a drive member and an elongated shaft member. The drive member has a proximal portion and a distal portion, and may include a handle disposed on the proximal portion, external threads disposed on the proximal portion of the drive member, and a tip disposed on a distal end of the distal portion of the drive member. The elongated shaft member includes a through hole, the through hole configured to receive the drive member, internal threads disposed on an inner surface of the through hole and configured to engage the external threads, and a hook member disposed on a distal end of the shaft member. The through hole extends into an opening of the hook member. The distal portion of the drive member is configured to slide through the through hole and into the opening of the hook member to secure a rod positioned therein. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140107707 | TABLE ANCHORED SCOLIOSIS DE-ROTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - The system includes pedicle screws anchored to multiple vertebra, at least one of which needs to be de-rotated about a central spine axis relative to adjacent vertebrae. Elongate posts are attached to the pedicle screws and extend away from the pedicle screws. A holder, such as in the form of multiple clamps and bars and a de-rotation rod, hold the posts together after de-rotation of a mis-rotated vertebra. A coupling joint secures the posts to a table upon which a spine surgery patient is resting. With the vertebra held where desired, a spine rod can then be attached to heads of the pedicle screws to hold the vertebrae in their desired positions. After spine rod attachment, to the pedicle screws, other portions of the system can then be removed. The pedicle screws and spine rods remain implanted to hold the vertebrae in their de-rotated positions. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140135839 | PERCUTANEOUS MODULAR HEAD-TO-HEAD CROSS CONNECTOR - A modular head-to-head cross connector or construct extension system comprising a fastener element driven into a bone in a first orientation, a first U-shaped body operable to receive the fastener element and operable to receive a first rod in a first rod receiving channel, and a first compression element driven adjacent to and against the first rod in the first rod receiving channel, thereby engaging the first rod against the fastener element in a second orientation independent of the first orientation of the fastener element. The system further comprises a second U-shaped body operable to receive first compression element and operable to receive a second rod in a second rod receiving channel, and a second compression element driven adjacent to and against the second rod in the second rod receiving channel, thereby engaging the second rod against the first compression element in a third orientation independent of the second orientation. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140148855 | SPINAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS DEVICE AND PREPARATION METHOD - A spinal internal implantation device for osteosynthesis has one or more bars for supporting for moving the spine and at least one implant for connecting the bars and vertebrae. The implant includes a blown anchor attached to a body of the implant and a fixation arrangement for the bars. The fixation arrangement includes a clamp for clamping the bar against internal walls of a channel formed in the body of the implant. At least part of the length of the bars includes a transversal bearing structure that is a cross-section of the bars having at least one flat part of a part having a lower forepost convexity than the rest of the cross section. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140155941 | INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF BONY STRUCTURES - The present invention relates to a brace installation instrument placement that is mounted to anchors secured in an animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position a brace in a position more proximate the anchors. The brace can be indexed for insertion at a predetermined orientation with respect to the installation instrument. Methods and techniques for using the installation instrument are also provided. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140163617 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SPINAL SURGERY - Systems and methods for surgical spinal correction are disclosed. A system including a plurality of bone screws, spinal rods, manipulators, and/or transverse couplers is disclosed for the manipulation of the spinal column is disclosed. A method of achieving, in a single action, manipulation and/or rotation of the spinal column using the disclosed system is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of conducting spinal surgery to correct spinal deformities wherein spinal rods are pre-bent in a physiological sagittal plane prior to attachment of the vertebrae using bone screws. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140200616 | SYSTEM FOR STIMULATING BONE GROWTH, TISSUE HEALING AND/OR PAIN CONTROL, AND METHOD OF USE - A system for use in stimulating bone growth, tissue healing, and/or pain control is described. The system includes a screw, a battery, a controller, and means for connecting the battery such that current is routed from the battery through the screw and thence to a target area of interest requiring treatment. The screw includes an elongate shaft having a length extending between opposite ends. The shaft has an insulating coating extending along at least a portion of the length. The thickness of the insulating coating at various portions of the shaft is modulated to optimally direct current to a target area of interest requiring treatment. The controller adjusts the duty cycle of the current flow over the treatment period. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140236234 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM ACTUATORS - A spinal correction system for implantation in a patient, the system including a reciprocating adjuster and/or a resistance adjuster coupled to a stabilizing member, for example. The resistance adjuster includes a potential energy drive, a slide unit, and a resistance unit. The reciprocating adjuster includes a piston unit, a transfer unit coupled to the piston unit, and a return mechanism. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140249581 | Posterior Stabilization Systems and Methods - An implantable body for a posterior stabilization system includes a lateral end, a medial end, an inwardly facing surface configured to abut against a lamina when the body is implanted along a vertebra. A lateral bone outrigger extends from the inwardly facing surface and may include a bone-abutting surface along a medial portion disposed to abut against a lateral mass of the vertebra when the body is implanted along a vertebra. The lateral bone outrigger may have a first height. A penetrating feature extends from the inwardly facing surface between the bone-engaging portion of the inwardly facing surface and the lateral bone outrigger. The penetrating feature may have a second height less than the first height. A fastener bore extends through the body at an angle toward the lateral bone outrigger. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140277150 | SURGICAL SCREW HOLE LINER DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS - A sleeve system for lining a hole of a surgical screw in a bone or tissue of a subject includes a woven sleeve having a first end, a second end, and an elongated body. The elongated body has an interior portion. The first end includes an aperture that accesses the interior portion. The sleeve system also includes a protective tip that may be inserted through the aperture of the first end of the sleeve. The protective tip at least partially protects tissue of the subject from a screw positioned within the sleeve. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140288604 | PEDIATRIC APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND KIT OF COMPONENTS FOR VERTEBRAE STABILIZATION AND CURVATURE CORRECTION, AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - An apparatus, system, and kit of components useful as a stabilization or correction system for a spinal column, especially in the field of pediatrics. A smooth unthreaded rod or a threaded rod is used that can be straight, rigid, bent or flexible depending on the body condition to be addressed. The rod may be bent or flexible to achieve varying degrees of lordosis (backward curvature) or kyphosis (forward curvature) before being affixed to the anchoring means and apparatus. The straightness, curvature, bent, or flexibility of rod depends upon the location along the spinal column. Once installed to the vertebrae, the rod provides the proper, desired curvature and stabilization for the spinal column. Sharp edges and corners of the apparatus are eliminated by rounding the edges and corners. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140358182 | READJUSTABLE POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW - A polyaxial pedicle screw includes a threaded shaft portion for anchoring the pedicle screw in a vertebra, the pedicle screw having one axial end provided with a shaft head which is coupled to a mounting sleeve for a longitudinal beam in a rotatable and/or pivotable manner, including a fixing device for the selective positional fixation of the mounting sleeve with respect to the shaft portion. The fixing device includes a locking element as well as a counterforce part which is formed so as to be separate from the pedicle screw and counteracts the holding force of the locking element, preferably a grub screw or threaded nut, and is designed and/or retained in such a manner that the holding force of the locking element can be selectively released by means of the counterforce part, viz. is without any effect. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140364914 | Modular Vertebral Stabilizer - A stabilizer device for the spinal column, comprising first engagement means and second engagement means, which are adapted to be connected to each other by a rod-like element, the first and second engagement means being adapted to be fitted on first and second pedicle screws, which are adapted to be in turn inserted in two adjacent vertebrae, the first and second engagement means being fixable on the pedicle screws; the first and second engagement means accommodate bearing means, which are adapted to rotate within the first and second engagement means and to be fitted on the pedicle screws, in order to allow the fitting of the first and second engagement means on the pedicle screws. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20150025577 | LONGITUDINAL CONNECTING MEMBER WITH SLEEVED TENSIONED CORDS - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150039035 | MEDICAL INSTRUMENT FOR HOLDING AND HANDLING A SURGICAL SECURING ELEMENT, AND VERTEBRAL COLUMN STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A medical instrument for holding and handling a surgical securing element has a proximal and a distal end. The surgical securing element includes a securing part and a holding part, and is assembled such that in an assembled disposition, the holding part for a connection element is movable in relation to the securing part. The instrument defines a longitudinal axis and includes a pulling part and, movable in relation to the latter in the direction of the longitudinal axis, a pushing part. The proximal end is temporarily couplable to the securing element in the assembled disposition. The instrument further includes an uncoupling device for actively transferring the instrument from a coupled position, in which the pulling part and the holding part are coupled, to an uncoupled position, in which the pulling part and the holding part are separable from one another. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150045834 | SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM - A surgical instrument comprises a first member including a first body connected to at least one second body. The first body is configured for disposal of an implant support having an outer surface. The at least one second body includes a capture element configured to dispose an implant support having an outer surface with the at least one second body such that the outer surfaces are spaced apart and each of the implant supports are engageable with a first implant. A second member is connected with the first member and is engageable with a second implant. The members are relatively movable to dispose the second implant with the implant supports and to align the second implant with at least one of the first implants. Systems and methods are disclosed. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150051648 | SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - An implant support comprises a first portion defining a longitudinal axis and a second portion including at least one arm extending from the first portion. The at least one arm includes a part. An extension is engageable with the at least one arm to move the at least one arm between a first position and a second position such that the part is disposed to releasably engage an implant. A lock is disposed with the first portion and connected with the extension. The lock is biased from a first configuration to a second configuration to engage the first portion and resist disengagement of the at least one arm from the second position. Systems and methods of use are disclosed. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150066088 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD - A surgical instrument includes a first member defining a longitudinal axis. A second member is disposed with the first member and is axially translatable relative to the first member. A first body is connected to the first member and is translatable along an arcuate path relative to the first member. The first body is connected to a first implant support. A second body is connected to the second member and is translatable along an arcuate path relative to the second member. The second body is connected to a second implant support. Systems and methods of use are disclosed. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150134003 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING SPINAL SURGERY - A manipulation device includes a body portion, a plurality of articulatable legs, and at least one lock member. The legs extend from the body portion. Each of the legs is configured to engage a surgical instrument at a distal end thereof. Each of the legs is transitionable between an unlocked condition, wherein the leg is free to articulate, and a locked condition, wherein the leg is fixed in position. The at least one lock member is operably disposed within the body portion and is coupled to at least one of the articulatable legs. The lock member is rotatable relative to the body portion between an unlocked position and a locked position for transitioning the at least one articulatable leg coupled thereto between the unlocked condition and the locked condition. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150297267 | METHOD OF PRODUCING AN IMPLANATABLE SPINAL SCREW AND CORRESPONDING SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - A spinal implantable device may be produced from a composite material comprising a matrix including PEEK. The PEEK matrix may be reinforced with carbon fibers that amount to at least 60% of the composite material. The carbon fibers are arranged in a substantially parallel arrangement and compressed in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the carbon fibers. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150351806 | Spinal Stabilization - Spinal stabilization systems are disclosed having spanning portions extending between and securable to pedicle screw assemblies, the spanning portions have stiffness characteristics that may be variable or selectively adjustable, and/or have non-linear behavior with respect to force versus distortion. Additionally, the systems may utilize a plurality of spanning portions in which two or more of the spanning portions have different stiffness characteristics. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20160015433 | METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A ROD IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160051284 | CIRCUMFERENTIAL VERTEBRAL COLUMN FIXATION SYSTEM - A circumferential vertebral column fixation systems includes an elongated engagement bar including at least two spaced apart fastener holes configured to be positioned within a vertebral body or other spinal bony segment such that fasteners inserted into the vertebral body or spinal bony segment are provided with an anchor point to help prevent fastener pull out. The engagement bar can further include a locking bar disposed within the engagement bar which can lock the fasteners to the engagement bar. Methods of using the circumferential vertebral column fixation system are also disclosed. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160051286 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF SPINAL DEFORMITY - The present invention generally relates to methods and device for treatment of spinal deformity, wherein at least one tether is utilized to maintain the distance between the spine and the an ilium to (1) prevent increase in abnormal spinal curvature, (2) slow progression of abnormal curvature, and/or (3) impose at least one corrective displacement and/or rotation. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160143669 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM ACTUATORS - A spinal correction system for implantation in a patient, the system including a reciprocating adjuster and/or a resistance adjuster coupled to a stabilizing member, for example. The resistance adjuster includes a potential energy drive, a slide unit, and a resistance unit. The reciprocating adjuster includes a piston unit, a transfer unit coupled to the piston unit, and a return mechanism. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160175142 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR APPLYING LOCALIZED THERMAL THERAPY | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160192965 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHORING DEVICE WITH ENLARGED PIVOT ANGLE | 07-07-2016 |
| 20220133362 | RECEIVING PART AND INSTRUMENT FOR HOLDING THE RECEIVING PART - A receiving part of a bone anchoring device includes a channel adjacent a first end for receiving a bone fixation element, the channel forming two free legs each having an engagement structure for engaging a locking element to lock the bone fixation element in the channel, an outer surface portion, and at least one projection for engaging an instrument to connect the instrument to the receiving part. The projection projects radially outwardly from the outer surface portion, is spaced apart axially from the first end of the receiving part, and has a circumferential width less than a circumferential width of the legs. The projection has a first side wall that faces the first end. At least part of the first side wall is inclined towards the first end as the first side wall extends circumferentially, to form a region of the projection that narrows towards the first end. | 05-05-2022 |
