Abstract: For fixedly implanting a device for material or signal delivery or acquisition or a part of such a device in a human or animal body, an opening is provided in hard tissue of the body, the opening reaching through a hard tissue layer, e.g. through a cortical bone layer into cancellous bone underneath. The device includes a plug portion (P) and/or a cover portion (C) which includes a ring of a material having thermoplastic properties extending around the plug portion (P) or on a tissue facing surface of the cover portion (C). The opening provided in the hard tissue has a cross section at least in the area of its mouth that is adapted to the plug or cover portion such that the plug portion (P) can be introduced through the mouth of the opening or the cover portion (C) can be positioned over the mouth of the opening such that the ring extends around the opening, along its wall and/or on the hard tissue surface around its mouth.

Abstract: A bone fixation system includes a compression bone screw and a washer for use with the bone screw in the reduction and fixation of bone fragments. The washer includes a frusto-conical body having a leading end, a trailing end, an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a central bore defined by the interior surface for receiving the bone screw. The interior surface is tapered resulting in the central bore's diameter being larger at the trailing end than at the leading end and the exterior surface has a greater taper angle than the taper angle of the interior surface.

Abstract: A woven retention device for interfacing with a bone surface includes interwoven filaments forming a tubular lattice with protuberances distributed on interior and exterior surfaces of the lattice at a predetermined spatial relationship. The protuberances are formed by intersecting interwoven filaments. The retention device receives and surrounds a fastener. In a first, relaxed state, the retention device has multiple combinations of filament cross-section geometries at the intersection points, and the multiple combinations of filament cross-section geometries form multiple protuberance thicknesses. In a second state when surrounding at least a portion of the fastener, the retention device distributes pressure from the fastener to multiple points of contact on the exterior surface of the retention device such that a spatial relationship of the protuberances changes as a function of bone density of the bone surface and as a function of an interfacing surface shape of the fastener.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating alignment of the foot to treat patients with flat feet, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and metatarsophalangeal joint dysfunction. An inflatable implant is positioned in or about the sinus tarsi and/or first metatarsal-phalangeal joint of the foot. The implant is insertable by minimally invasive means and inflatable through a catheter or needle. Inflation of the implant alters the range of motion in the subtalar or first metatarsal-phalangeal joint and changes the alignment of the foot.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus described herein provide for a knotless suture anchor that captures and secures a suture by pinching on an inserted suture with a flexible element disposed within the knotless suture anchors body. The knotless suture anchor has an integrated flexible element that is formed as a plastic part within the knotless suture anchor's body. The free end of the flexible element terminates near a suture eyelet and can be compressed by a driver rod that is inserted into the knotless suture anchor to allow for insertion of a suture. With the flexible element compressed by the driver rod, the suture can be passed through the eyelet(s). When the driver rod is withdrawn, the flexible element expands thereby pinching the suture against the eyelet(s). If the driver rod is reinserted, the flexible element is recompressed and the suture can thereby be released or adjusted.

Abstract: Facet fusion implants with various body geometries are provided. The bodies of the facet fusion implants can be configured to minimize migration of the implants when the implants are inserted into facet joints. Surgical methods and accompanying surgical instrumentation for inserting the facet fusion implants into facet joints are provided.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a surgical implant. A metal layer is deposited onto a polyaryletherketone (PAEK) substrate by generating a series of pulses using a high power impulse magnetron sputtering process. Each pulse is applied in a series of micro pulse steps comprising (i) micro pulse on steps ranging from 10 ?s to 100 ?s and (ii) micro pulse off steps ranging from 5 ?s as to 400 ?s; at a repetition frequency ranging from 50-2000 Hz with 2 micropulses to 20 micropulses per repetition, a total pulse on time ranging from 25 ?s to 800 ?s for 5 minutes to 300 minutes at averaged power ranging from 200 W to 3000 W. The series of pulses are performed in a unipolar mode or a bipolar mode.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: A distal loading receiver for a polyaxial bone screw includes a body member having a circumferential wall defining a bore disposed longitudinally through the body member. A skirt depends from a distal end of the body member. The skirt defines one or more distally opening slots and an abluminal surface of the skirt includes one or more transverse ribs proximate to a distal end of the skirt. A retaining ring includes a luminal surface having one or more transverse recesses proximate to a distal end of the luminal surface and one or more walls extending inwardly from the luminal surface. The slots accommodate the walls and the recesses accommodate the ribs to attach the body member to the retaining ring when the distal end of the skirt is inserted into a proximal end of the retaining ring.

Abstract: Internal bone fixation devices and methods for using the devices for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A device for use in repairing a fractured bone includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of at least one reinforcing material and an inner lumen for passage of a light source; a conformable member releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the conformable member moves from a deflated state to an inflated state when the at least one reinforcing material is delivered to the conformable member; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light source and the at least one reinforcing material.

Abstract: A fixation implant and associated methods are presented. The fixation implant includes a shaft extending from a first end portion to a second end portion and having an intermediate portion therebetween. The intermediate portion is generally smooth and the end portions are threaded. The method includes use of the fixation implant for repair of a metapodial phalangeal joint of a human extremity. The method includes: forming a bone tunnel in a bone; approximating material near the bone tunnel; and threading the fixation implant into the bone tunnel in interference fashion to secure the material relative to the bone tunnel. The fixation implant may be cut such that the end portion is flush with the bone.

Abstract: A button and attached suture loop for CMC repair. A suture strand is threaded through holes in the button to attach the button to the suture. The suture ends are then brought together (by being swaged, spliced or cinched together, for example) to form the suture loop comprising a continuous, uninterrupted suture loop with a single strand of swaged-together ends. The swaged-together ends are attached to a suture passing instrument such as a K-wire (Kirschner wire) that is also used to drill a hole through adjoining metacarpals (for example, the first and second metacarpals). The swaged-together ends of the suture are then passed through the drill holes in the first and second metacarpals, and the ends of the suture are pulled until the button abuts one of the first and second metacarpals. A second button is used to secure the cut suture ends to the other metacarpal.

Abstract: A woven retention device for interfacing with a bone surface includes interwoven filaments forming a tubular lattice with protuberances distributed on interior and exterior surfaces of the lattice at a predetermined spatial relationship. The protuberances are formed by intersecting interwoven filaments. The retention device receives and surrounds a fastener. In a first, relaxed state, the retention device has multiple combinations of filament cross-section geometries at the intersection points, and the multiple combinations of filament cross-section geometries form multiple protuberance thicknesses. In a second state when surrounding at least a portion of the fastener, the retention device distributes pressure from the fastener to multiple points of contact on the exterior surface of the retention device such that a spatial relationship of the protuberances changes as a function of bone density of the bone surface and as a function of an interfacing surface shape of the fastener.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an anchor. The anchor includes an outer member including a body having an inner cavity, wherein the inner cavity includes a proximal portion configured for receipt of a delivery device and a distal portion having area of increased diameter. The anchor also includes an inner member coupled to the outer member, wherein the inner member includes a proximal portion having a projection configured for receipt in the area of increased diameter and a distal portion having a transverse through hole. A delivery device and method for tissue repair are also disclosed.

Abstract: Implants for forming a positive connection with human or animal parts include a material, such as thermoplastics and thixotropic materials, that can be liquefied by means of mechanical energy. The implants are brought into contact with the tissue part, are subjected to the action of ultrasonic energy while being pressed against the tissue part. The liquefiable material liquefies and is pressed into openings or surface asperities of the tissue part so that, once solidified, the implant is positively joined thereto. The implantation involves the use of an implantation device that includes a generator, an oscillating element, and a resonator. The generator causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator. The resonator is used to press the implant against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Apparatus for securing an object to bone, the apparatus comprising: a suture anchor assembly comprising a suture anchor body and a suture; the suture anchor body being configured to be lockingly disposed within a hole formed in the bone, and having an opening formed therein for slidably receiving the suture therethrough; the suture having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion extending therebetween; the suture extending through the opening in the suture anchor body so that the intermediate portion forms a loop on one side of the opening and the first and second ends are disposed on the other side of the opening, such that when the first end of the suture is passed through the loop and securingly engages the object, pulling on the second end of the suture draws the loop and a captured portion of the suture along a path toward the opening in the suture anchor body; the suture anchor body being configured so that when the suture anchor body is disposed in the hole in the bone, a tapered bindi

Abstract: A device for treating a bone includes (a) an elongate body sized and shaped for insertion into a bone and extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the elongate body including a channel extending therethrough and a coating along an outer surface thereof, the coating adapted to absorb a selected frequency of light such that, when the selected frequency of light is applied thereto, portions of the coating melt to form a mass; and (b) a first anchor member slidably mountable over the elongate body and movable therealong from a first position at the proximal end of the elongate body to a second position adjacent a bone into which the elongate body has been inserted to cooperate with the mass to fix the elongate body to the bone.

Abstract: Implants for forming a positive connection with human or animal parts include a material, such as thermoplastics and thixotropic materials, that can be liquefied by means of mechanical energy. The implants are brought into contact with the tissue part, are subjected to the action of ultrasonic energy while being pressed against the tissue part. The liquefiable material liquefies and is pressed into openings or surface asperities of the tissue part so that, once solidified, the implant is positively joined thereto. The implantation involves the use of an implantation device that includes a generator, an oscillating element, and a resonator. The generator causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator. The resonator is used to press the implant against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant.

Abstract: A fixation device comprises a first clamping member having an adjustable clamping collar and a first curved support portion attached to the adjustable clamping collar. The first clamping member is adapted to receive a digit. The first curved support portion is adapted to support an inferior surface of a proximal phalanx of the digit. A distal member is adjustably attachable to the first clamping member. The distal member has a second curved support surface adapted to support an inferior surface of a distal phalanx of the digit and a curved distal end adapted to apply a compressive force in a proximal direction to a distal end of the distal phalanx.

Abstract: There is provided a modular polyaxial pedicle screw assembly that includes various components which may be configured in various manners so as to provide different functionalities to the pedicle screw assembly. This advantageously decreases surgery time, reduces repetitive and tedious surgical steps, and allows for streamlining inventory of expensive medical equipment. In one embodiment, a pedicle screw assembly includes a pedicle screw, a rod holding element, a polyaxial insert, a rod, and a set screw. The pedicle screw includes a threaded shaft and a cap. The rod holding element includes a screw hole, an insert bearing area, a chamber, chamber walls, a saddle area, and a threading area. The insert is disposed within the chamber, and the insert defines a bearing surface, an upper surface, side walls and a receiving area.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in stabilizing and/or aligning the spinal column utilizes hooks and rods to effectively transfer load from the vertebrae to the apparatus regardless of the angle and the height of the pedicular screws. A screw cap formed of a base having a bore therethrough for receiving the head of the screw, an upright riser formed thereon that is laterally offset from the bore, and a surface for engaging the rod or plate of the stabilizer enables the apparatus to be used for stabilizing and/or aligning vertebral bodies that are out of alignment, of different shape or size, and/or pathology. The apparatus is implanted in a series of steps that are quickly and conveniently performed in the surgical stage and with minimal application of force to align the vertebral bodies, decreasing the likelihood of damaging the nerves populating the surgical stage.

Abstract: A bone anchor having a rivet having a proximal end and a head distal to an elongate body, a sleeve having an internal channel for slidably receiving the body, and an expansion nut having a channel therethrough for slidably receiving said body, proximal of said sleeve is provided. The sleeve further has a shoulder provided within the internal channel in the region of the proximal end for engaging the expansion nut. The rivet, sleeve and expansion nut are arranged such that movement of the rivet from a first position to a second position causes the sleeve to cam over the rivet head and expansion nut until said expansion nut engages said shoulder, forcing the sleeve to expand into a wall of a bone hole.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to devices, systems, kits and methods for achieving maxillo-mandibular fixation (MMF). In an embodiment, a system comprises a plurality of dental occlusion ties and/or tension band ties (referred to herein as “DO ties” and “TB ties,” respectively). In another embodiment, a system or kit can comprise a plurality of one or both of DO ties and/or TB ties as well as a trimming tool, comfort caps or material, a lip/cheek retractor, and/or an instruction sheet. DO ties and TB ties can simplify the management of mandible fractures and maxilla fractures by helping re-establish precise dental occlusion for MMF.

Abstract: An implant storage and insertion system for a shape memory orthopedic implant allows the implant to be constrained in a deformed state, protected, insulated, held for insertion, and properly positioned in bone. The implant storage and insertion system includes a restraining block having an impact surface. The restraining block engages an implant at a first end, and further a medical instrument engages the restraining block and positions the restraining block at a bone such that the impact surface may be impacted to insert a second end of the implant into the bone.

Abstract: A composite fixation device is described herein which includes a first and second biodegradable material. The first and second biodegradable materials degrade at different rates thereby permitting tissue ingrowth into the device prior to degradation of the entire device.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgically implantable device, system, and method of use thereof for the internal compression or distraction of, for example, bone fractures, fusions, and osteotomies. More specifically, the surgical device comprises a bridge with one or more adjustable anti-reversing portions. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) may be located in a symmetrical or asymmetrical manner on the bridge between the device's legs. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) allow for stronger compression of the bone at a known amount of compression. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) can also maintain the device's legs in closer proximity to one another for greater compression or maintain the device's legs apart from one another for distraction. The surgical device can also comprise cannulated or grooved legs. A system and method of use is also described.

Abstract: A method for bunion repair using a suture anchor-button construct. The suture anchor-button construct includes a suture anchor, a button, and a suture strand attached through the suture anchor and passing through holes in the button. A first diameter hole is drilled through the first metatarsal and a second, smaller diameter hole is drilled through the second metatarsal. The suture anchor of the construct is passed through the hole in the first metatarsal and into the hole in the second metatarsal, and the suture anchor is screwed into the second metatarsal. The first metatarsal and the second metatarsal are pushed together to correct the intermetatarsal angular deformity. The button of the construct is then advanced against the medial surface of the first metatarsal, and the button is secured in place by tying the suture ends together.

Abstract: A surgical process for affixing an elbow implant into the ulna has the steps of separating the olecranon process from the ulna so as to expose an end of an intermedullary canal of the ulna, inserting a stem of the elbow implanted into the intermedullary canal such that an end of the stem extends outwardly of the end of the ulna, and affixing the olecranon process onto the exposed end of the ulna. A hole is drilled through the olecranon process such that the hole is axially aligned with the intermedullary canal of the ulna. This hole is drilled prior to the step of separating.

Abstract: Surgical anchoring systems and methods are employed for the correction of bone deformities. The anchoring system and its associated instrument may be suitable for surgical repair of hallux valgus, tarsometatarsal sprains, ankle ligament reconstruction, spring ligament repair, knee ligament reinforcement, acromioclavicular sprains, coracoclavicular sprains, elbow ligament repair, wrist and hand ligamentous stabilization or similar conditions. The anchoring system may include a fixation system for anchoring two or more sections of bone or other body parts and a system for aligning of one section relative to another section.

Abstract: An implant suitable for being anchored with the aid of mechanical vibration in an opening provided in bone tissue. The implant is compressible in the direction of a compression axis under local enlargement of a distance between a peripheral implant surface and the compression axis. The implant includes a coupling-in face which serves for coupling a compressing force and the mechanical vibrations into the implant, which coupling-in face is not parallel to the compression axis. The implant also includes a thermoplastic material which, in areas of the local distance enlargement, forms at least a part of the peripheral surface of the implant.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for the attachment of a soft tissue structure (e.g., tendon or ligament) to bone or a prosthetic implant. In one form, the device includes a clamp having a convex tissue engaging surface. A fastener compresses the soft tissue between the tissue engaging surface and the bone or the prosthetic implant. In another form, the device includes a second clamp comprising a porous metallic material. The second clamp has a first surface, a concave tissue engaging surface opposite the first surface, and a throughhole for a fastener. The second clamp is placed adjacent the bone, the soft tissue is placed adjacent the second clamp, and the first clamp is placed adjacent the soft tissue. The soft tissue is compressed between the convex tissue engaging surface of the first clamp and the concave tissue engaging surface of the second clamp using the fastener.

Abstract: The subject invention is a fixation device or anchor intended to secure a graft ligament or other soft tissue repair. The device is designed to be attached to a graft ligament and to secure the graft within a bone tunnel by extending transversely across the opening of the tunnel. In certain procedures the device is intended to pass through a bone tunnel in an orientation generally aligned with the tunnel and then turn transversely. The device has an inherent tendency to rotate upon exiting the tunnel to thereby become automatically transversely aligned with the tunnel and the graft ligament. The rotation is due to a moment automatically created as a resultant of forces applied to the anchor by a pulling-suture via a laterally offset aperture joining the pulling-suture to the anchor.

Abstract: A fixation system for a bone conduction device is disclosed. An abutment is coupled to a bone anchor such that vibrations applied to the abutment pass into the bone anchor. The abutment defines a conduction path to the bone anchor such that vibrations applied to the abutment are transferred to the bone anchor. The abutment comprises a plurality of interlocking stacked plates disposed adjacent the bone anchor, wherein the plates form part of the conduction path. The fixation system also comprises a vibratory coupler extending from the bone conduction device, comprising a second conduction surface and a magnet, wherein the magnet attracts to the abutment so as to couple the second conduction surface to the abutment, thereby enabling vibrations to pass through the conduction path. The plates are configured to slide laterally in response to tangential forces incident upon the abutment.

Abstract: A bone screw assembly includes a screw body, including anchor portion and rod-receiving portion, and a rod seat movably mounted in the screw body to allow for controlled angulation between a spinal connection element disposed in the rod seat and the screw body. The rod seat is pivotable in one or more selected directions about one or more axes relative to the screw body. The rod seat may include a first lower rod seat element disposed in a recess of the screw body having a cylindrical bottom surface to facilitate pivoting in a first direction. A second lower rod seat element is stacked on the first lower rod seat element and has a conical bottom surface abutting a top surface of the first lower rod seat element to facilitate pivoting in a second direction.

Abstract: A retainer member formed of bone secures tissue relative to a bone. The retainer member forms an opening in a compact outer layer of the bone. The retainer member is enclosed in a tubular member or sleeve to prevent breaking of the retainer member during formation of the opening in the bone. The extent of movement of the retainer member into the hone in the patient's body is determined as the retainer member is moved into the bone. A suture may be connected with the retainer member and used to connect tissue with the bone. The retainer member may be positioned across a fracture in a bone to hold portions of the hone relative to each other. The retainer member may be used at a joint between end portions of bones to immobilize the joint and be released by breaking the retainer member.

Abstract: 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 looking 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.

Abstract: A stem-like bone fixation device allows for bony in-growth on its surface and across fracture fragments or between bones that are to be fused.

Abstract: A segmented suture anchor for fixation of soft tissue to bone. The segmented suture anchor is formed of multiple body segments that allow the suture anchor to be inserted and passed through a curved instrument such as a curved cannulated guide. At least two of the multiple body segments are connected by a strand of material (for example, a flexible suture strand, a suture tape, nitinol strand, or high-strength suture). The strand of material may be attached to the anchor by a connecting region (for example, a bonded or knotted region). The strand of material may also form a closed loop or eyelet attached to the suture anchor, to allow additional suture strands to be loaded through the closed loop or eyelet and aid in the fixation of soft tissue.

Abstract: The invention provides medical devices comprising high-strength alloys which degrade over time in the body of a human or animal, at controlled degradation rates, without generating emboli. In one embodiment the alloy is formed into a bone fixation device such as an anchor, screw, plate, support or rod. In another embodiment the alloy is formed into a tissue fastening device such as staple. In yet another embodiment, the alloy is formed into a dental implant or a stent.

Abstract: A sleeve system to support surgical screws or prosthetic devices on, against, or within 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 defines an interior portion of the woven sleeve. The first end has an aperture allowing access to the interior portion. The woven sleeve is formed from a plurality of suture material, and the woven sleeve may be coated, impregnated, or at least partially filled with a material that facilitates integration of the woven sleeve with the bone or tissue.

Abstract: Methods of joint repair employing sutures and attached fixation devices are discussed. For example, a bone block graft procedure (e.g., Latarjet) is discussed which employs fixation devices to secure contact between graft surfaces of two bones. A suture construct, including a continuous suture loop routed through a first fastener, is secured to a first bone. Looped ends of the suture loop are passed through passageways formed in the two bones. The looped suture ends are further routed through a second fastener. The second fastener is mounted to the second bone and a sliding knot, formed in the looped suture ends, is advanced into contact with the second fastener. The suture is further tensioned using a tensioner device to secure the two bones together.

Abstract: A polyaxial screw body includes a side wall defining a lumen having a first end and a second end. An opening disposed at the first end of the lumen, includes an interior surface disposed in the side wall thereabout. The interior surface is adapted to accommodate a head portion of a pedicle screw. A transverse channel extends from a first aperture through the side wall to a second aperture and is adapted to accommodate a portion of a fixation rod therebetween. A lateral connector extending integrally from the side wall.

Abstract: A bone fixation assembly comprises a tulip-shaped assembly and a bone fixation device such as a surgical or pedicle screw, comprising a head and a bone fixation portion. The tulip assembly comprises an upper portion to receive a rod and a lower portion that has a cavity in which the head of the bone fixation device rests. The cavity has an aperture below. The aperture has a length through which the tulip assembly may slide with respect to the bone fixation device, for movement of the tulip assembly when the bone fixation device is in place, while also maintaining the angular movement of the tulip assembly. The bone fixation device may comprise an aperture engaging part, which locks the bone fixation device position on the aperture length. A tulip assembly translation mechanism comprises a head, a cavity, an aperture to the cavity.

Abstract: An implant assembly includes a first implant member, a second implant member, and a contractible element that is connected between the first and second implant members. The first implant member is configured to be placed against a first bone portion, and the second implant member is configured to be placed against a second bone portion. The contractible element is fixed at a first end to one of the first and second implant members, and movable at a second end with respect to one of the first and second implant members so as to induce tension in the suture, thereby providing a compressive force against the first and second bone portions. The second end can then be fixed with respect to the first and second implant members. The contractible element can contract in length in response to bodily fluids, thereby ensuring adequate post-operative compression. An instrument is also disclosed that is configured to implant the first and second implant members adjacent the first and second bone portions, respectively.

Abstract: There are disclosed various embodiments of surgical tacks for use in surgical procedures. The tacks generally include a head and a barrel portion extending distally from the head. Preferably, the head and the barrel portion define a throughbore for receipt of a drive instrument. A thread on the head is provided to engage threads in the installation tool. A tissue thread is provided on the barrel portion to engage tissue. Distal and proximal surfaces of the tissue thread may be oriented at various angles relative to the barrel portion. There is also disclosed an insertion instrument to insert one or more tacks as well as a method of use. There is further disclosed a model device for use in explaining the operation of the instrument.

Abstract: A system for spinal surgery includes a prosthesis comprising a plurality of bone anchors which engage an intervertebral construct for fusion or motion preservation. The fusion construct comprises a spacer optionally encircled by a jacket. The motion preservation construct may comprise an articulating disc assembly or an elastomeric disc assembly. Any of the constructs may occupy the intervertebral disc space between adjacent vertebrae after removal of an intervertebral disc. The anchors slidingly engage the construct to securely fix the prosthesis to the vertebrae. The anchors and jacket of the fusion construct provide a continuous load path across opposite sides of the prosthesis so as to resist antagonistic motions of the spine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support (1) for receiving at least one surgical object, in particular at least one bone screw (2), in a receiving position (A). Said support (1) comprises at least one supporting surface (3) which is designed and arranged in such a manner that a supporting area (5) of the object can be brought into contact with the supporting surface (3) in the receiving position (A). Said object can be removed from the receiving position (A) in the direction of removal (E). The direction of removal (E) extends at an angle of a maximum 45°, preferably a maximum 20°, more particularly essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis (L) of the object housed in the receiving position (A). Said support (1) comprises at least one mounting surface (4) that can be moved in relation to the base body (23) and which is designed and arranged in such a manner that the object can be maintained by means of the mounting surface (4) in the receiving position (A), in particular in a clamped manner.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of use which can be used to immobilize maxilla and mandible in dental occlusion utilizing the tissue of the interdental space.

Abstract: A surgical suture system for tissue repair and reattachment of torn tissue to a tissue substrate, medical prosthesis or medical implant. The system includes an elongated flexible suture member having a plurality of longitudinally spaced protuberances along a length thereof and a plurality of tissue engaging members each including two spaced apart locking apertures sized to receive the suture member passed therethrough to allow longitudinal movement of the suture member in only one direction through the locking apertures for suture member tightening.