Abstract: Provided is a minimally invasive cavity formation instrument for forming tissue cavities. The instrument includes an end effector having an aperture through which a cutting element is laterally extended and retracted. The cutting element may be retracted for minimally invasive insertion into a tissue region and extended to form a tissue cavity. The end effector of the instrument may be articulated or rotated to facilitate cavity formation.

Abstract: Provided is an accumulator that may store energy within a pressurized inflatable nail to compensate for small changes or losses in a system volume. Alternatively, the accumulator may be external to a pressurized inflatable nail and attached to the nail after the nail is implanted. The accumulator may be comprise a piston or a pressurized bladder. The energy may be stored in a spring, compressed air, or other pressure source. The accumulator may stabilize a system pressure by supplying fluid to the closed system. Alternatively, the accumulator may stabilize a system pressure by replacing the volume of the lost fluid.

Abstract: Provided is a medical device for forming or modifying cavities in tissue. Versions include a blade extendable laterally from a first shape to a second shape to cut tissue in a controlled manner. The first shape may be configured for insertion in accordance with minimally invasive procedures and the second shape may be configured for cutting or forming cavities.

Abstract: Provided is a medical device for restoring the anatomy of bones comprising at least one inflatable device, where the inflatable device may be inflated to facilitate reconstituting the bone. Disclosed are a plurality of inflatable devices that may be used in combination in accordance with methods for reconstituting a fractured bone or other tissue.

Abstract: Provided is a medical device for restoring the integrity of vessels comprising a closure button insertable therein, where the closure button is adapted to plug a hole or port in a vessel to prevent blood loss, for use in an intervertebral disc herniation, or for use in a crushed vertebral body.

Abstract: Provided is an intervertebral implant operably configured to maintain limited mobility between adjacent vertebrae. Versions of the intervertebral implant may take the place of an intervertebral disk and may function in a manner substantially similar to an intervertebral disk. In one version, the intervertebral implant includes a spacer having a first surface conducive to bone fusion and a second surface resistant to bone fusion.