Abstract: A system for spinal fixation with a non-rigid portion at least one of the caudal or cephalad terminus. Various devices and techniques are described for transition from a rigid fixation construct to a less rigid support structure applied to a “soft zone” that helps share the stress created on the spinal levels caused by the fixed levels below. In some embodiments, the soft zone is provided by terminating the construct with one of a flexible tether or a dampening rod.

Abstract: A spinal implant includes a first member configured to penetrate tissue and a second member. The second member has an abutment engageable with a surgical instrument and at least one peripheral capture element engageable with a moveable arm of the surgical instrument. Systems, spinal constructs, surgical instruments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A modular screw assembly for use in stabilizing a spinal column. The assembly has a fastener which couples to a screw head of a bone anchor, a screw head coupler, a retaining ring, and a friction ring. The fastener houses the screw head coupler, the retaining ring, and the friction ring. Translation of the fastener by the screw head results in the retaining ring elastically deforming and then snapping around the screw head.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes bone screws and assemblies thereof for surgical procedures of the spine including but not limited to posterior spinal fixation procedures.

Abstract: Implants with grip grooves are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, an implant includes a rod-receiving recess defining a rod axis where an inner surface of the rod-receiving recess defines two grip grooves extending parallel to each other and the rod axis. Each grip groove defines two edges where the grip groove intersects the inner surface, the four edges of the two grip grooves together defining a circular radius about the rod axis. The implant includes a retaining member configured to move with respect to the body to apply a force against a rod that is perpendicular to the rod axis, the force engaging the rod against the four edges of the grip grooves, where the engagement of the four edges of the grip grooves against the rod restrains rotational movement of the rod about the rod axis.

Abstract: A rod group includes a plurality of first rods that has an arcuate first curve, the first rods having mutually different lengths; and a plurality of second rods that has an S-shaped second curve, the second rods having mutually different lengths. The first rods and the second rods have shapes for treatment of scoliosis by (i) guiding the postoperative apex of the thoracic kyphosis to be located at the thoracic vertebrae T6 to T8, and (ii) guiding a postoperative apex of the thoracic kyphosis to be located at a position different from a preoperative apex of the thoracic kyphosis and the second rod each have a shape extending along an anatomically normal spinal column arrangement.

Abstract: Connector assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. One or more modular connectors has a first portion that clamps to a first rod in an existing construct and a second portion that clamps to a second rod in a new construct such that the new construct can be extended from the existing construct.

Abstract: A spinal construct comprises at least one member that defines a first implant cavity and a second implant cavity oriented transverse to the first implant cavity. The at least one member has a surface that includes a lock disposed with the first implant cavity. Systems, implants, surgical instruments and methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a spinal fusion implant capable of preserving turning properties of vertebral bodies, and in addition, capable of preventing false screwing (false insertion) of screws. Connection plates 3 constituting a spinal fusion implant 101 each have, on a ventral-side surface 3b, a convex-shaped portion 8 that is fitted into a concave-shaped portion of an intervertebral joint 53. In addition, a center hole 3d through which a center rod 4 is slidably inserted is formed on a side surface of the connection plate 3, such that the center of the hole is positioned closer to the back side than a virtual line L1 connecting midpoints on arc-shaped contour lines C of the concave-shaped portions of the adjacent intervertebral joints 53 when viewed from the head side of a human body.

Abstract: A jointed rod assembly for use in a spinal fixation construct involves a caudal rod portion connectable to an adjustment mechanism, and a cranial rod portion connectable to the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the caudal and cranial rod portions relative to one another about a joint axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the caudal and cranial rod portions. The caudal and cranial rod portions may be dimensioned to be compatible with other pieces of hardware commonly used for spinal fixation, such as bone anchors (e.g., pedicle screws), occipital plates, reducers, and others. The caudal and cranial rod portions are composed of a strong, rigid, non-absorbable, biocompatible material. The jointed rod assembly may be advantageously used in spinal fixation systems and methods of spinal fixation.

Abstract: A system for implanting a bone fixation system including an implant head inserter associated with each hook member and positionable relative to one of the elongate members to engage the hook member with the elongate member; a preliminary locking instrument associated with each implant head inserter and configured to engage the respective elongate member and lock the position of the hook member and implant head inserter relative to the elongate member; a compressor assembly configured to engage the implant head inserters and compress them toward one another; a path creation tool configured to be extended through holes in the hook members to define a connector member path between the hook members; and a rod introduction instrument configured to support the connector member and direct it through the connector member path. Methods of implanting a bone fixation system are also provided.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A spine alignment system is disclosed. The spine alignment system includes a pedicle screw having a longitudinal axis, the pedicle screw having a screw head. The screw head includes a slot having a longitudinal axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pedicle screw. An extension shaft is secured to the pedicle screw, such that a longitudinal axis of the extension shaft is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the pedicle screw. The spine alignment system also includes a cap having a slot that forms a substantially cylindrical passage with the slot of the pedicle screw head. The substantially cylindrical passage is configured to receive an alignment rod such that alignment of the spine occurs as the rod is translated along the extension shaft to the pedicle screw.

Abstract: A modular screw includes a first assembly and a second assembly. The first assembly includes a base portion having a head portion, a securing portion defining a first bore, and a receiving portion defining a second bore. The second assembly includes a first post, a second post including an engaging portion, and an elongate screw threadably engageable with the second post. The second post is dimensioned to be received through the second bore of the receiving portion of the first assembly such that when a first set screw is received in the first bore, the first set screw secures the base portion of the first assembly to the second post. The elongate screw received in the second post causes radial expansion of the engaging portion of the second post, which, in turn, causes the engaging portion to be affixed to the cavity of the first post.

Abstract: A surgical connection device for connecting two rod elements in one or more relative orientation includes a main body with receiving openings. The rod elements can be fixed to the main body by fixing elements. At least one receiving opening has an aperture at a receiving opening edge, through which aperture a rod element can be inserted into the receiving opening transversely to the orientation of the receiving opening. A connection system includes a surgical connection device and two or more rod elements.

Abstract: A spinous process plate fixation assembly is provided that has a pin plate including a first central aperture and a pin plate interior surface. The assembly has a lock plate including a second central aperture and a lock plate interior surface opposingly facing the pin plate interior surface. The interior surfaces have a pluralities of spikes extending therefrom. A pin receptacle is disposed within the pin plate and is configured to receive a lock pin. A pivoting lock mechanism is disposed within the lock plate. A connector shaft extends from the pin plate to the lock plate and passes through the first central aperture and the second central aperture. The connector shaft includes a pin side configured to receive the lock pin, and a lock side opposite the shaft side, the lock side configured to operatively engage the pivoting lock mechanism so as to secure the plates and the shaft.

Abstract: A bone fastener assembly for connecting a bone to a stabilizing construct includes a connecting member, a fastener seat, and a bone fastener. The connecting member includes a connecting member axis, a first opening, a second opening, and a first spherical surface. The connecting member axis extends from a proximal end to a distal end. The first opening is adjacent the proximal end. The second opening is adjacent the distal end. The fastener seat includes a first end, a second end, a passageway, and a second spherical surface. The passageway extends from the first end to the second end along a seat axis. The second spherical surface is configured to slidably engage the first spherical surface. The bone fastener includes a shank and a head. The shank extends though the passageway. The head engages a head-mating surface of the fastener seat.

Abstract: A system for spinal fixation with a non-rigid portion at least one of the caudal or cephalad terminus. Various devices and techniques are described for transition from a rigid fixation construct to a less rigid support structure applied to a “soft zone” that helps share the stress created on the spinal levels caused by the fixed levels below. In some embodiments, the soft zone is provided by terminating the construct with one of a flexible tether or a dampening rod.

Abstract: A spine fixation assembly has a polyaxial spine screw rod holder for a first spine rod and a second rod holder for a second spine rod, the second rod holder is linked to the polyaxial spine screw rod holder via a connector, the connector extending radially outward from the polyaxial spine screw rod holder such that the second rod holder is spatially separated from and offset relative to the polyaxial spine screw rod holder. The polyaxial spine screw rod holder defines a first rod seat that holds the first spine rod. The first spine rod has a first longitudinal axis. The second rod holder defines a second rod seat that holds a second spine rod. The second rod has a second longitudinal axis. The second rod holder is oriented relative to the polyaxial spine screw rod holder by the connector at an offset (angle).

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal stabilization system for maintaining preselected spacing and movement between adjacent vertebrae in a spinal column and for providing overall stability thereto. The system includes at least one interlaminar member positioned in the spaces intermediate a first vertebra and the vertebrae positioned immediately above or immediately below and adjacent to the first vertebra. The interlaminar member is operatively connected to an adjustable support structure and cooperates therewith to maintain the preselected spacing between adjacent vertebrae and to provide overall stability to the spinal column.

Abstract: The present application describes computer apparatus and software programs useful to the field of corrective spinal surgery. The apparatus and software implement and facilitate methods for assessing the degree of balance and alignment achieved through corrective measures applied to the spine prior to completing a surgical procedure. The apparatus and software facilitate pre-operative planning and virtual testing of the corrective measures to be applied. The apparatus and software further facilitate intra-operative reconciliation with the pre-operative plan prior to completing the surgery.

Abstract: Devices and methods that allow a rod to be offset in a relatively small amount of space are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, first and second offset rods can be joined by a plate-type connector having a reduced thickness suitable for insertion into a small space, e.g., between adjacent bone anchors. In some embodiments, first and second offset rods can be joined by a curved connector that conforms to adjacent bone anchors and likewise has a reduced thickness.

Abstract: A posterior cervical fixation system including an occipital plate member, a cross connector, a pair of elongated spinal rods and a plurality of polyaxial screws. The occipital plate member configured for fixing to an occipital bone comprises an aperture to receive a bone anchor member to secure the occipital plate member to the occipital bone and at least one rod clamping element dimensioned to receive at least one spinal rod. The cross connector secures the pair of elongated spinal rods to vertebral bodies. The cross connector includes a pair of collet connectors and a cross bar that is configured to secure the pair of elongated spinal rods in a desired distance. Each polyaxial screw has an anchor head associated with a fastening member. The pair of elongated spinal rods is configured to extend along the vertebral bodies between the occipital plate member and at least one of the polyaxial screws.

Abstract: An adjustable cervical link system that includes a plurality of cervical links for adjustable fixation to articles of a patient's cervical spine, and a connecting assembly having a generally rectangular loop shape defining a substantially open interior therebetween. Each cervical link has a plurality of circular holes each arranged to receive a screw thereby securing the cervical link to the respective article of a patient's cervical spine at a bottom portion of the cervical link. Each cervical link has a plurality of recessed portion along a top portion of the cervical link. Each recessed portion has a generally U-shaped cross-section formed by a bottom portion and a pair of spaced apart side walls. The connecting assembly is arranged to be placed in and frictionally engage the U-shaped cross-section of the recessed portions.

Abstract: Lamina plates can include various features that allow a surgeon to couple the plate to a vertebra, such as a plurality of receiving holes for receiving a spinal fixation element. The plate can be shaped and the receiving holes positioned such that spinal fixation elements can be installed with reduced exposure of the spine and along a trajectory that enhances purchase with bone. The lamina plate can include one or more features for coupling at least one receiver head to the plate for receiving a spinal stabilization element. Since the receiver head can be coupled to the plate after the plate is implanted, it does not restrict the range of angles or trajectories at which the spinal fixation elements can be installed.

Abstract: A retractor system for securing surgical retractors includes an elastic tether and a cleat. The elastic tether has an elongated side and a predetermined diameter. The cleat includes a base, a head, and a shaft. The base includes an upper surface with a first row of teeth. The head is coupled to the base via the shaft. The head includes a lower surface with a second row of teeth. The first row of teeth are opposite the second row of teeth by less than the predetermined diameter of the tether and are configured to receive and compress the elongated side of the tether. Each tooth of the first row of teeth includes a first gripping surface that extends away from the shaft. Each tooth of the second row of teeth includes a second gripping surface that extends away from the shaft and that is parallel to the first gripping surface of a directly opposite tooth of the first row of teeth.

Abstract: A posterior spinal implant system configured to immobilize and stabilize spinal segments as an adjunct to fusion in the thoracic, lumbar, and/or sacral spine. The implant system includes a pedicle screw, a spinal rod; a connector connecting the pedicle screw to the spinal rod. The connector includes a connector body, a polyaxial screw receiver positioned on the connector body and configured to receive the pedicle screw and permit polyaxial orientation of the connector relative to the pedicle screw, a polyaxial rod receiver positioned in the connector body and configured to receive the spinal rod and permit polyaxial orientation of the spinal rod relative to the connector, and a lock installed in the polyaxial rod receiver. The lock is operable to lock the connector relative the pedicle screw, lock the polyaxial rod receiver relative to the connector, and lock the spinal rod relative to the polyaxial rod receiver.

Abstract: Lamina plate assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. A lamina plate assembly may be configured to provide lamina support following laminectomy, for example, in cervical and lumbar cases. The lamina plate assembly may include a generally elongate body having a first free end, a second free end, and a posterior portion disposed between the first free end and the second free end. Different embodiments of securing portions are used to secure the lamina plate assembly to a vertebra.

Abstract: A spinal implant includes first and second pedicle screws, each of which comprises a threaded shank coupled to a head. First and second cantilevered arms are coupled to the first and second pedicle screws, respectively. The first cantilevered arm includes a contact member arranged to contact and move over a contact portion of the second cantilevered arm.

Abstract: Various angularly-adjustable spinal fixation systems are provided and generally include an articulating connector having first and second elongate rods extending therefrom, and first and second polyaxial bone screw assemblies configured to seat the first and second rods therein. The rods are configured to be seated within receiver heads of the polyaxial bone screw assemblies when the screws are implanted in opposed lateral sides of a vertebra, thereby allowing the receiver heads to be manipulated relative to the rods to reduce one or more posterior fractures. A joint on the articulating connector can also be manipulated to reduce one or more anterior fractures. The entire construct can be locked to maintain the fractures in the reduced configuration.

Abstract: The present invention includes a pedicle screw made with a bone fastener and a rod coupling head, the rod coupling head comprising an upper rod coupling: the lower rod coupling having a lateral rod opening adapted to receive a permanent rod; an angled bore extends into the lateral rod opening; and a permanent rod fastener in the angled bore to engage a permanent rod in the lateral rod opening; and a upper rod coupling having an upper rod opening adapted to receive a temporary rod, wherein the upper rod opening is formed to receive a temporary rod fastener; wherein the upper rod coupling is detachable from the lower rod coupling at a transition and a temporary rod is temporarily affixed into the upper rod opening during a bone realignment and a permanent rod is positioned in the lateral rod opening and engaged by the permanent rod fastener upon final bone alignment.

Abstract: Implant connectors and related methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a connector can include a low-profile portion to facilitate use of the connector in surgical applications where space is limited. In some embodiments, a connector can include a biased rod-pusher to allow the connector to “snap” onto a rod and/or to “drag” against the rod, e.g., for provisional positioning of the connector prior to locking.

Abstract: A method of treating a spinal column shape deformation includes fixing at least two fixation screw assemblies to respective vertebrae, sliding a rod between the arm extensions on each of the fixation screw assemblies, swinging the channels of the screw assemblies relative to the fixation screws so that the channels become less inclined to the axes of the fixation screws, and so that the rod is located generally posteriorly of the spinal column, locking the channel against swinging relative to the screw, rotating the rod about its axis relative to at least one of the channels, and locking the rod against movement relative to the channel.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device includes an inner housing, an outer housing, a screw, and a pivot inhibitor. The outer housing is circumferentially disposed around at least a portion of the inner housing, wherein the outer and inner housings are translatable relative to one another to cause transitioning of the spinal fixation device between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The screw including a screw head pivotably coupled to a lower portion of the inner housing and a shaft extending from the screw head. The pivot inhibitor is coupled to one of the inner housing or screw, such that pivoting of the inner housing about the screw head is inhibited in a direction of the pivot inhibitor.

Abstract: A bone fixation system for implanting in bone, the system comprising a plurality of bone fastener assemblies that attach to bone, a pair of elongate members that attach to the plurality of bone fastener assemblies, a connector member that contacts the pair of elongate members, and a plurality of locking caps that secure the connector member and the elongate members to the plurality of bone fastener assemblies, wherein at least one of the plurality of locking caps comprises a cap portion and a hook portion, where the cap portion is adapted to rotate while the hook portion is stationary.

Abstract: Connector assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. A connector has a first end that clamps to a first rod in an existing construct and a second end, connected to the first end, that clamps to a second rod in a new construct such that the new construct can be extended from the existing construct at an adjacent level as the existing construct.

Abstract: A receiving part for receiving a rod for coupling the rod to a bone anchoring element, the receiving part including: a receiving part body having a channel for receiving a rod and defining an accommodation space for accommodating a head of a bone anchoring element, the accommodation space having an opening for inserting the head; and a pressure element at least partially in the accommodation space, the pressure element including a first portion having a recess to receive the rod, and a second portion having a flexible portion to clamp the head, wherein the pressure element is moveable along a longitudinal axis of the receiving part body from an inserting position to insert the head, to a pre-locking position to clamp the head in the receiving part by a pre-stress exerted by the pressure element, to a locking position to lock the head in the receiving part.

Abstract: According to an embodiment, a spinal implant having vertical and horizontal plates with through-holes for receiving a pre-configured square bolt is disclosed. The embodiments of the invention include very long square bolts that can accommodate the height of at least of two vertically stacked plates. When used to reduce spondylolisthesis, a portion of the square bolt can be broken after the desired alignment of the listhetic vertebrae is observed. The square bolts also allow extension of vertical plates above or below an existing fusion by placement of an extension vertical plate on to the previous one without removing it. This makes extension of instrumentation extremely easy.

Abstract: A surgical connector useful to link spine rods together. The connector may be used adjacent a pair of mounting screws in one vertebra to limit movement between the screws or may be used to apply a lateral force to a portion of the spine to change curvature. A method of performing spinal surgery is also provided to reinforce a patient's spine.

Abstract: Improved bone plate systems are described herein. In some instances, a bone plate system can include a base plate, at least one retainer plate, and at least one spacer. The at least one retainer plate is configured to reside on the base plate in a free floating manner and can receive at least one fastener to secure the retainer plate to the at least one spacer, thereby providing a plate system that attaches to a spacer. In other instances, a bone plate system can include a base plate having one or more push plates that can engage at least one spacer.

Abstract: Bone anchor assemblies are disclosed herein that can provide for improved fixation as compared with traditional bone anchor assemblies. An exemplary assembly can include a bracket or wing that extends down from the receiver member and accommodates one or more auxiliary bone anchors that augment the fixation of the assembly's primary bone anchor. Another exemplary assembly can include a plate that is seated between the receiver member and the rod and accommodates one or more auxiliary bone anchors that augment the fixation of the assembly's primary bone anchor. Another exemplary assembly can include a hook that extends out from the receiver member to hook onto an anatomical structure or another implant to augment the fixation of the assembly's primary bone anchor. Surgical methods using the bone anchor assemblies described herein are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for applying a manipulative force to a target region of a spinal column during a surgical procedure is provided with at least four pedicle screws, at least four elongated levers configured to temporarily engage with the pedicle screws, a linking member configured to link at least two of the elongated levers in a axial direction such that they move in unison, and a cross-linking member configured to link at least two of the elongated levers in a transverse direction such that they move in unison. When the system is assembled, it permits an operator to move the at least four elongated levers in unison to simultaneously rotate the at least four pedicle screws about a spinal column roll axis. Related methods are also provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a medical device includes an elongate member, a first coupler, and a second coupler. The elongate member has a first end portion, a second end portion, and a side portion. The side portion of the elongate member has a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion. The first receiving portion is configured to receive a first support member. The second receiving portion is configured to receive a second support member. The first coupler is coupled to the elongate member and is configured to engage the first support member to help retain the first support member within the first receiving portion. The second coupler is coupled to the elongate member and is configured to engage the second support member to help retain the second support member within the second receiving portion.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a sacral prosthesis, comprising: a prosthesis main body, the prosthesis main body including two first prosthesis bodies and a second prosthesis body connected between the two first prosthesis bodies the two first prosthesis bodies and the second prosthesis body being of an integrally prototyped structure, a second end of each of the first prosthesis bodies being contacted and matched with an ilium, and a top of the second prosthesis body being contacted and matched with a lumbar vertebral body; and a screw-rod structure, the screw-rod structure including a connecting seat and a rod body, the connecting seat being connected with the prosthesis main body, and the rod body being fixed on the connecting seat. The technical solutions of the present disclosure can effectively solve the problems of unreliable supporting and easy fatigue break of the screw-rod system in the related technology.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device is provided having first and second elongate members that are angularly adjustable relative to one another. Each elongate member can include a connecting feature formed on a terminal end thereof, and each connecting feature can be coupled to one another to allow angular movement of the first and second elongate members. The device can also include a locking mechanism that is adapted to couple to the connecting feature on each of the first and second elongate members to lock the elongate members in a fixed position relative to one another.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A device and method for use which stabilizes a target motion segment of the spine without the use of screws or any form of hardware implanted into the vertebrae. By being comprised of modular segments and assembled onto the target motion segment at the time of implantation, it can be provided in kit form designed for each patient. The stabilization apparatus general comprises elements; one is adjustably secured to the posterolateral aspect of the caudal vertebra of the target motion segment, with another element being secured to the base of the spinous process of the cranial vertebra of the target motion segment. These two elements are then coupled to each other by either an elongated rod-like connecting element, or extensions from the two anchoring elements which then couple.

Abstract: 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 rotatable relative to each other. A screw engaging member projects radially from the distal end of the inner sleeve and is configured to engage an extension coupling surface on the outer sleeve upon relative rotation of the inner and outer sleeves. A securement member including cooperative surfaces is defined adjacent the distal end of the inner and outer sleeves that is operable upon relative rotation of the inner sleeve and outer sleeve to radially secure the sleeves together to thereby maintain the engagement of the screw engaging member and the bone screw.