Abstract: Bone anchor insertion assemblies and methods are provided for inserting a bone anchor (e.g., bone screw) into bone without having to create a pilot hole. In some embodiments, the assembly includes a bone anchor, a housing member, and a rod. The housing member, which is coupled to the rod, is movable between proximally and distally advanced positions relative to the rod. In the proximal position, the bone anchor can be coupled to the rod. In the distal position, a tip of the bone anchor is generally aligned with a distal end of the housing member. The bone anchor is advanced into the bone under guidance of the housing member, where the tip of the bone anchor serves as a bone awl. Once the bone anchor is seated within the bone, the housing member can be returned to the proximal position to improve visibility of the surgical procedure.

Abstract: A bone (e.g., spine) fixation plate with one or more wire members is provided. In some embodiments, each wire member spans across a top surface of the bone fixation plate in a direction generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the plate. The wire member may flex (e.g., elastically) between a first position in which the wire member permits advancement of the bone anchor (e.g., screw) past the member, partially through the plate, and into bone, and a second position in which the wire member resists back out of the bone anchor from the plate.

Abstract: Bone (e.g., spinal) fixation assemblies are provided that resist back out of associated bone anchors (e.g., screws). The bone fixation plate may house a bone anchor retaining member that permits partial passage of the bone anchor and subsequently resists back out of the bone anchor from the member and the bone fixation plate. In some embodiments, the bone fixation plate may include an attachable cover member that prevents the bone anchor retaining member from ejecting from the plate. In other embodiments, ejection of the anchor retaining member from the bone fixation plate may be prevented by walls integral to the plate.

Abstract: A fixation device for engaging the soft tissue in a body. The fixation device includes a body portion and a plurality of teeth. The body portion has a proximal face, a distal face, a central aperture and a suture slot. The central aperture is formed through the proximal and distal faces and is configured to receive a screw. The suture slot intersects the central aperture and is configured to receive a suture. The plurality of teeth coupled to the proximal face of the body portion and are configured to engage the soft tissue. A soft tissue securing device and a method for securing soft tissue to a bone are also provided.