Abstract: A system for moving a portion of a patient's body including a housing having a first cavity extending along a longitudinal axis, a first distraction rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the first distraction rod and the housing being telescopically displaceable with respect to each other along the longitudinal axis, the first distraction rod having a cavity extending along the longitudinal axis, a second distraction rod having a proximal end and a distal end and configured to be telescopically displaceable from within the second cavity along the longitudinal axis, and a drive system configured to move the first distraction rod in relation to the housing and to move the second distraction rod in relation to the first distraction rod.

Abstract: An extracorporeal bone compressing link and apparatus and method using same. Active devices that incorporate the extracorporeal bone compressing link can transport and compress bone through external means by acting on conventional bone fasteners including but not limited pins or wires that penetrate through the skin and fixate into bone.

Abstract: An external fixation system may include first and second fixation rings and a plurality of adjustable length struts. Each adjustable length strut may have two joints, a rod, a tube, and an actuator configured to drive the rod axially relative to the tube to change an effective length of the strut. The system may include a plurality of controller modules each configured to couple to a corresponding strut. The external fixation system may have a manual mode of operation in which the controller modules are not coupled to the struts, and manual actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in discrete length increments. The external fixation system may have an automated mode of operation in which the controller modules are coupled to the struts, and automated actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in infinitesimally small length increments.

Abstract: A system for moving a portion of a patient's body including a housing having a first cavity extending along a longitudinal axis, a first distraction rod having a proximal end and a distal end, the first distraction rod and the housing being telescopically displaceable with respect to each other along the longitudinal axis, the first distraction rod having a cavity extending along the longitudinal axis, a second distraction rod having a proximal end and a distal end and configured to be telescopically displaceable from within the second cavity along the longitudinal axis, and a drive system configured to move the first distraction rod in relation to the housing and to move the second distraction rod in relation to the first distraction rod.

Abstract: A system for interconnecting bones includes an implantable member configured to be mechanically coupled to a first bone, configured to be mechanically coupled to a second bone, configured to provide substantially no resistance to compression of the implantable member, configured to support a tensile load within a predetermined range of tensile loads extending from a first load to a second load, configured to have a predetermined elasticity within the range of tensile loads, configured to have a first characteristic at the first load, and configured to have a second characteristic at the second load. The system also includes a means for measuring the first characteristic and the second characteristic. And the system includes a means for calculating a tension between the first bone and the second bone based on the first characteristic and the second characteristic.

Abstract: A tensegrity external fixation system utilizes a tensegrity external fixator having a compression portion and a tension portion that create a force to distract bone. A tensegrity external fixator has a compressor assembly with an extension that is compresses by a tension element, such as a tension band. In an embodiment, the tension band is coupled with a bone via a stud that is attached to the bone. The tension band may extend through a stud retainer, such as a loop coupled with the stud. A single extension may be used and compressed to cause the extension to bow between a tension band or wires. In an exemplary embodiment, a compressor assembly has a compression element that is compressed by the one or more extensions. Two extensions may extend from a compressor coupling having a compression element and manipulation of the extensions may place the compression element in compression.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally discloses instruments and methods of using those instruments for performing various aspects of ankle replacement surgery. In one embodiment, an alignment assembly for adjusting a position of a guide tool relative to a patient is provided. The alignment assembly includes a proximal housing; a distal housing configured to be connected to the guide tool; and at least one linkage system configured to adjust a relative angle between at least two portions of the alignment assembly. A surgical guide wire is also disclosed. The surgical guide wire includes a distal tip having a tapered or trocar end configured for insertion into a bone; a distal region adjacent to the distal tip; a transition region adjacent to the distal region; and a proximal region adjacent to the transition region.

Abstract: A cervical spine plate attachment system includes a cervical spine plate that has a first surface configured to rest upon a first vertebra and a second vertebra, a second surface opposite the first surface and facing away from the first vertebra and the second vertebra, and a plurality of holes configured to receive fasteners to secure the cervical spine plate to the first vertebra and the second vertebra. The system also includes an alignment guide that detachably mounts to the cervical spine plate. The alignment guide comprises a pair of bars that rest upon the second surface of the cervical spine plate when the alignment guide is mounted to the cervical spine plate. The system also includes a fastener configured to secure the alignment guide to the cervical spine plate.

Abstract: A bone positioning device can include a fixation pin for attachment to a first bone and a fixation pin for attachment to a second bone. A first block having an aperture can be included for slidably receiving a fixation pin, and a second block having an aperture can be included for slidably receiving a fixation pin. A multi-axis joint can connect the first block and the second block, where the multi-axis joint allows the first second blocks to move with respect to each other about more than one axis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of devices and methods for distraction osteogenesis, and, more particularly, to distraction devices and distraction systems used in the treatment of mandibular or maxillary alveolar ridge atrophy, and to methods for utilizing a distraction device or a distraction system for bone tensioning.

Abstract: Multi-axis pivot joints and surgical instrument drive shafts formed using additive manufacturing methods.

Abstract: The present invention presents various embodiments showing combination of a body, rods, platforms and pin (or wire) clamps for the relative fixation of separated bone segment. In some embodiments there is an overall linear arrangement of the assemblies. The rods are threaded and extend lengthwise throughout a substantial portion of the length of the body. Engaged with the threaded rods are one or more moveable platforms, with each moveable platform engaging one or more pin clamps. Preferably each moveable platform includes at least one tapped (generally threaded) hole and at least one smooth through-hole in each moveable platform, so that each moveable platform engages with one threaded rod via the tapped hole but can pass freely along the other threaded rod. Each body also typically bears at least one stationary platform, generally at or near one end of the device.

Abstract: A resection guide includes an anchor having bone anchoring features, a cutting block having a cutting guide defined therein, and a linkage flexibly connecting the cutting block to the anchor. The flexibility of the linkage provides the cutting block with six degrees of freedom of motion relative to the anchor.

Abstract: A surgical system includes a disposable force sensor pod that includes a load cell and a mounting feature. The surgical system also includes a computing system configured to be placed in electronic communication with the disposable force sensor pod and receive a force measurement from the disposable force sensor pod. The disposable force sensor pod is configured to be removeably coupled to a distraction device using the mounting feature.

Abstract: An orthopedic instrument for manipulating (e.g., compressing or distracting) one or more patient's bone fragments is disclosed. In one embodiment, the orthopedic instrument includes forceps having first and second arms and first and second handles, respectively. Each arm including a coupling mechanism for selectively engaging removable tips or bell housings. Each tip or bell housing including a first end arranged and configured to mate with a fastener hole or opening formed in a bone plate, a second end arranged and configured to receive a head portion of a bone fastener, and an intermediate portion arranged and configured to couple to the coupling mechanism of the first and second arms. In addition, the orthopedic instrument may include a force sensing mechanism or gauge arranged and configured to measure an amount of force being applied across the bone fracture.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for a syndesmosis treatment construct configured to be placed into a cinched configuration that presses a first bone against a second bone. The syndesmosis treatment construct comprises a proximal fixator to contact the first bone and a distal fixator to contact the second bone. A first suture and a second suture are parallelly looped through the distal fixator. A free splice slidably rides on proximal ends and distal ends of both of the first and second sutures. The distal ends are looped through the proximal fixator and bound within a stitch splice. The proximal ends are passed outside of the stitch splice and through the proximal fixator. The free splices compress and seize the proximal ends during pulling of the proximal ends by a practitioner so as to maintain the cinched configuration.

Abstract: An orthopedic spring hinge and associated external fixation systems for the treatment of anatomical joint dysfunctions, and more particularly, to a spring hinge comprising a first base member, a second base member, a flexible first spring having a first longitudinal axis extending from the first base member to the second base member, and a flexible second spring spaced apart from the first spring and having a second longitudinal axis extending from the first base member to the second base member. The spring hinge is configured to have a maximum bending resistance in a first plane extending between the first spring and the second spring and a minimum bending resistance in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane.

Abstract: Provided are external fixation horns and clamp for use with struts in conjunction with external bone fixation (EBF) devices. A fixation horn is a cylindrical component intended to connect and provide further fixation locations for a half-pin clamp. A horn can be offered at various angles and lengths to best fit the application and surgeon preference. Prior to securement, the horn is positioned in the desired position and orientation relative to the half-pin clamp. Once in position, a floating collar of the horn is tightened onto the clamp. The collar compresses a serrated face of the horn with a mating serrated face of the clamp. The serrated faces of the horn and half-pin clamp are designed to lock together and resist rotational slippage during use.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an external fixation system that includes at least one external fixation strut that is both acutely adjustable and precisely adjustable and related methods of adjustment. Acute adjustment may be accomplished using one or more mobile jaws that may be engaged with or disengage from a threaded rod of each external fixation strut. Precise adjustment of each external fixation strut may be accomplished after releasing a lock biased toward a locked position. When each external fixation struts lock is released, a portion of each of the precise adjustment mechanism of each external fixation strut may be activated to increase and decrease the length of each of the at least one external fixation struts.

Abstract: The invention is a point and click method for positioning an external fixator on a patient, in which a surgeon—using a computer mouse or similar device—inscribes lines or points on a computer screen displaying an x-ray or other photographic image of the bones of a patient together with two rings in position adjacent the bones. By inscribing lines on the computer screen, the underlying drawings program detects the x-y coordinates of any point on the screen when the user (the surgeon or other practitioner) clicks on it, and outputs the x-y coordinates of every point identified by the user including the two points defining any desired line. The practitioner thus can, using “point and click” operation, govern the repositioning of two fixator rings on the bones of a patient.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, the process includes the steps of: a) taking a sagittal preoperative x-ray of the vertebral column of the patient to be treated, extending from the cervical vertebrae to the femoral heads; b) on that x-ray, identifying points on S1, S2, T12 et C7; c) depicting, on the said x-ray, curved segments beginning at the center of the plate of S1 et going to the center of the plate of C7; e) identifying, on that x-ray, the correction(s) to be made to the vertebral column, including the identification of posterior osteotomies to make; f) pivoting portions of said x-ray relative to other portions of that x-ray, according to osteotomies to be made; g) performing, on said x-ray, a displacement of the sagittal curvature segment extending over the vertebral segment to be corrected; h) from a straight vertebral rod (TV), producing the curvature of that rod according to the shape of said sagittal curvature segment in said displacement position.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, the process includes the steps of: a) taking a sagittal preoperative x-ray of the vertebral column of the patient to be treated, extending from the cervical vertebrae to the femoral heads; b) on that x-ray, identifying points on S1, S2, T12 et C7; c) depicting, on the said x-ray, curved segments beginning at the center of the plate of Si et going to the center of the plate of C7; e) identifying, on that x-ray, the correction(s) to be made to the vertebral column, including the identification of posterior osteotomies to make; f) pivoting portions of said x-ray relative to other portions of that x-ray, according to osteotomies to be made; g) performing, on said x-ray, a displacement of the sagittal curvature segment extending over the vertebral segment to be corrected; h) from a straight vertebral rod (TV), producing the curvature of that rod according to the shape of said sagittal curvature segment in said displacement position.

Abstract: A suture anchor apparatus comprising: an anchoring member made from a metal-based material and comprising a generally elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein an outer surface of the anchoring member defines a threading that winds around the body in a plurality of turns disposed along a longitudinal axis of the body; wherein the threading has a depth of about 1 mm and a pitch of about 3 mm, and an eyelet disposed near the distal end and penetrating transversely through the body.

Abstract: A retractor system for use in medical procedures is connectable to a head fixation device. The retractor system includes a support assembly and an accessory that is mountable thereto. The support assembly is coupled with the head fixation device such that a position of the support assembly is adjustable relative to the head fixation device. The support assembly includes an upright support and a rod having a non-circular profile. The support assembly and rod are selectively and adjustably coupled to one another via a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly includes a pair of resilient members having contacting and non-contacting surfaces within bores of the resilient members. The accessory and rod are selectively and adjustably coupled to one another via another coupling assembly that comprises locking features operable to selectively engage and disengage the accessory with the rod.

Abstract: An external fixation system includes first and second fixation members having first and second pluralities of mounting holes, respectively. The first and second plurality of holes are configured to receive first and second ends of a plurality of struts, each strut having a default or initial mounting position. A simulation of the correction may be performed with the struts in the default positions, but it may be determined that the correction is not achievable. Additional simulations of the correction may be performed with the ends of the struts in different mounting positions to determine if other mounting positions of the struts allow the correction to be completed. During the correction, if one of the struts reaches a maximum length, it may be disconnected and reconnected to a different mounting hole so that, after being reconnected, the strut may be further increased in length to continue the correction.

Abstract: An electrical circuitry fitted to be connected or to be an integral part of a bone fixation device having at least one linear actuator coupled between two rings, including: at least one linear actuator connector, mechanically and/or electrically connectable to said at least one linear actuator; a control circuitry, wherein said control circuitry measures a value related to the movement of said at least one linear actuator and/or to the distance or change in distance between said two rings, by receiving signals from said linear actuator connector; and a memory, wherein said memory stores said value.

Abstract: A stereotactic system for positioning a device relative to a spine includes a first frame with an attached first pedicle screw, a second frame with an attached second pedicle screw, and a platform for mounting the device. The lower parts of the frames are horizontally spaced apart, and attachable to the spine by the pedicle screws. The platform is attached to the upper parts of the frames and supported by the frames above the spine. The platform is slidably attached to the upper parts of the frames to adjust a longitudinal position of the platform relative to the frames. The platform is pivotally attached to the upper parts of the frame to adjust a horizontal distance between the lower parts of the frames, while maintaining a constant orientation of the platform.

Abstract: Devices and methods for preparing a surgical site, and in particular vertebral members, which may include a retractable tool and an actuator. The tool may include distal and proximal members. A distal side of the distal member may be fixed in a longitudinal direction and pivotable at a point of rotation. A proximal side of the proximal member may be pivotably connected to the actuator. In a retracted position, the distal member may be pivotably connected to the proximal member longitudinally in between the point of rotation and the proximal side of the proximal member. Moving the actuator in a distal direction may push the proximal member and the distal member such that the proximal member pivots with respect to the actuator and distal member, the distal member pivots with respect to the proximal member and point of rotation, and the proximal member and distal member move laterally outward.

Abstract: Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine.

Abstract: According to the invention, the process includes the steps of: a) taking a sagittal preoperative x-ray of the vertebral column of the patient to be treated, extending from the cervical vertebrae to the femoral heads; b) on that x-ray, identifying points on S1, S2, T12 et C7; c) depicting, on the said x-ray, curved segments beginning at the center of the plate of S1 et going to the center of the plate of C7; e) identifying, on that x-ray, the correction(s) to be made to the vertebral column, including the identification of posterior osteotomies to make; f) pivoting portions of said x-ray relative to other portions of that x-ray, according to osteotomies to be made; g) performing, on said x-ray, a displacement of the sagittal curvature segment extending over the vertebral segment to be corrected; h) from a straight vertebral rod (TV), producing the curvature of that rod according to the shape of said sagittal curvature segment in said displacement position.

Abstract: A system for implanting an interbody device between adjacent vertebrae comprises an interbody device having a plurality of lobes extending outwardly from a longitudinal rib, and having a relaxed shape approximating the shape of the disc being replaced. An insertion guide has a bore therein from a proximal end to a distal end thereof to accept the interbody device in an unrelaxed shape. The distal end is shaped for insertion into an intervertebral space. The insertion rod may be positioned within the bore of the insertion guide whereby the interbody device is positioned within the intervertebral space by advancing the insertion rod into the insertion guide.

Abstract: A paper scrap pushing structure of a paper shredder, including a rotating shaft, a paper pushing rod, and connecting rods, in which the rotating shaft is arranged under a paper outlet, and is in linkage with a paper shredder cutter shaft through a synchronous transmission device. The paper pushing rod is located on one side of the rotating shaft, arranged in the length direction of the rotating shaft in parallel and connected with the rotating shaft through the connecting rods. The distance from the paper pushing rod to the rotating shaft is smaller than the distance from the lowest portion of the paper shredder cutter shaft to the rotating shaft. When rotating, the rotating shaft drives the paper pushing rod to move in a circumferential direction through the connecting rods, removing paper scraps at the top of a paper scrap pile in a shredded paper waste bin.

Abstract: Dynamization devices and methods of use are provided. A dynamization device may comprise first and second modules that are mated together in a substantially cylindrical shape. The outer surface of the first and second modules are connected to deformable rings that may be deformed when a longitudinal force is applied to the first and second modules. The deformation of the rings creates a longitudinal mechanical bias in the device to return it to its original shape. The strength, spring coefficient, and size of the dynamization device can be adjusted depending upon the particular needs of the application.

Abstract: Implants suitable for use in a carpometacarpal joint includes an upper surface, a lower surface, and sidewalls extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. The implant includes hydrogel material such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel. Kits can include systems for preparing an implantation site, creating a cavity, and/or deploying the implant. Methods of treating a carpometacarpal joint include deploying an implant in a recess in a carpometacarpal bone.

Abstract: An external adjustment device includes at least one permanent magnet configured for rotation about an axis with a first handle extending linearly at a first end of the device and a second handle at a second end of the device, the second handle extending in a direction substantially off axis to the first handle. The external adjustment device further includes a motor mounted inside the first handle and a first button located in the proximity to one of the first handle or the second handle, the first button configured to be operated by the thumb of a hand that grips the one of the first handle or second handle. The first button is configured to actuate the motor causing the at least one permanent magnet to rotate about the axis in a first direction.

Abstract: Embodiments herein are generally directed to extendable rods for use in orthopedic assemblies. In some embodiments, these implants may be used in conjunction with procedures to treat spinal deformities, including, but not limited to, early onset scoliosis.

Abstract: A bone positioning device can include a fixation pin for attachment to a first bone and a fixation pin for attachment to a second bone. A first block having an aperture can be included for slidably receiving a fixation pin, and a second block having an aperture can be included for slidably receiving a fixation pin. A multi-axis joint can connect the first block and the second block, where the multi-axis joint allows the first second blocks to move with respect to each other about more than one axis.

Abstract: A dynamic strut for external fixation constructs has first and second sub-struts that are axially adjustable in length and rotational position relative to one another, with the first sub-strut supporting a first dual universal joint with a first attachment peg for connection to an external fixator, and the second sub-strut supporting a second dual universal joint with a second attachment peg for connection to an external fixator. The first and second dual universal joints each include first and second ball-and-socket joints, whereby the associated attachment peg is adjustable in orientation. Set screws fix orientation of the attachment peg relative to the first ball-and-socket joint and the housing. Angular orientation of the first dual universal joint is fixed while angular orientation of the second dual universal joint is adjustable. The second sub-strut supports an axially movable shaft that supports the second dual universal joint.

Abstract: A distractor device may include a tubular body being internally threaded, a first foot plate extending from the tubular body, and an internal post in the tubular body. The internal post may include a first portion having a first diameter being externally threaded to cooperate with the internally threaded tubular body, and a second portion coupled to the first portion, having a second diameter less than the first diameter, and also being externally threaded. The tubular body may include a longitudinal slot extending from adjacent the first foot plate. The distractor device may include a second foot plate extending through the longitudinal slot and for threadingly coupling to the externally threaded second portion of the internal post. The second portion may include a tool interface on a distal end thereof.

Abstract: A device for repositioning bone fracture fragments is disclosed. The device has a carrier assembly and a first arm assembly attached to the carrier assembly, the first arm assembly configured to hold a first bone fracture fragment. The device also has a second arm assembly attached to the carrier assembly, the second arm assembly configured to hold a second bone fracture fragment. The device further has an actuator assembly configured to adjust the second arm assembly, and an operating assembly configured to control an adjustment of the second arm assembly via the actuator assembly. The operating assembly is a manually operatable operating assembly.

Abstract: External fixation systems, and methods for immobilizing joints or fractured bones. An external fixation system may include one or more clamp assemblies connected to one or more rod assemblies at polyaxial joints. Each rod assembly may be length adjustable, and may include a one-way locking mechanism to provisionally lock the length of the rod assembly, and additional locking mechanisms to permanently lock the length of the rod assembly. The system may be deployed pre-assembled as a unit to immobilize a joint or fracture. Another external fixation system further includes a spanning member extending transverse to the rod assemblies. Two or more external fixation systems may be deployed in a stacked configuration on one set of bone pins to immobilize two joints and/or fractures. The systems may be provided in kits including guiding instrumentation, bone pins and pin clamping assemblies for connecting the bone pins to the external fixation systems.

Abstract: A fixation device comprises a first body having a threaded end, a longitudinal axis, and a bore perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A second body is received in the bore. The second body has an exterior thread and an interior passage for receiving a pin or wire. The second body has a wire locking device for retaining the pin or wire. An advance nut engages the exterior thread. The advance nut abuts the first body for moving the wire locking device away from the first body when the advance nut is turned, for tensioning the pin or wire.

Abstract: An orthodontic/orthognathic device for correcting and changing tooth placements and bone structure, and a method of using orthodontic/orthognathic device for tooth movement, correcting syndromic conditions of the mouth and osteogenetic correction. The device may be used for maxillary distraction and expansion as well as mandibular separation and expansion. The device can be controlled by computer to direct tooth and bone placement.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a first arm connected with a longitudinal element and a first spinal construct. The first arm is connected with the longitudinal element and includes a body engageable with a first spinal construct and rotatable relative to the first arm in a first orientation and a second orientation. A second arm is axially translatable relative to the first arm and includes a body engageable with a second spinal construct and is rotatable relative to the second arm in a first orientation and a second orientation. The bodies include locks. In some embodiments, spinal constructs, implants, systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine.

Abstract: A fixation clamp for use in an external fixation system for holding bone fragments adjacent to each other with the help of fixation elements has at least one clamping assembly having a pair of jaws with at least two different size grooves to accommodate a bone fixation element such as a pin or rod. An alternate clamping assembly has at least three grooves wherein at least two of the grooves have a different size adapted to accommodate a correspondingly sized bone fixation element such as a bone pin. The longitudinal axes of the grooves define a polygon. The jaw pairs can be rotated about a central longitudinal axis to present different size reception cavities towards the pins or rocks depending on their diameter.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming pilot holes in bone and deploying a staple therein for fixing a sheet-like implant to the bone. A pilot hole forming trocar assembly including a trocar and a position retention sleeve can be included. The trocar can be releasably coupled to the position retention sleeve and slide in keyed arrangement within the sleeve when uncoupled. The trocar can include a distal portion having a retractable blade and a pair of pilot hole forming spikes extending distally from the trocar shaft. Once the pilot holes are formed, the position retention sleeve maintains the position relative to the pilot holes while the trocar is removed and a staple delivery device can be inserted in the lumen of the position retention sleeve to deploy a staple in the pilot holes.

Abstract: External fixation systems, and methods for immobilizing joints or fractured bones. An external fixation system may include one or more clamp assemblies connected to one or more rod assemblies at polyaxial joints. Each rod assembly may be length adjustable, and may include a one-way locking mechanism to provisionally lock the length of the rod assembly, and additional locking mechanisms to permanently lock the length of the rod assembly. The system may be deployed pre-assembled as a unit to immobilize a joint or fracture. Another external fixation system further includes a spanning member extending transverse to the rod assemblies. Two or more external fixation systems may be deployed in a stacked configuration on one set of bone pins to immobilize two joints and/or fractures. The systems may be provided in kits including guiding instrumentation, bone pins and pin clamping assemblies for connecting the bone pins to the external fixation systems.

Abstract: A growth rod distraction system a domino having first and second bores provided therein. First and second spinal rods are respectively disposed within the first and second bores for movement relative to the domino. First and second spur gears are disposed within the domino and respectively cooperate with the first and second growth rods such that rotation of the spur gears causes axial movements of the growth rods relative to the domino. The spinal rods may be formed either from a flexible polymer material (such as a PEEK, carbon fiber PEEK, PEAK, or similar medical grade polymer material) or a hybrid combination of such flexible polymer material and a metallic material (such as nitinol or similar medical grade metallic material). The spinal rods can also be used for fusion or non-fusion surgery of the spine to stabilize two or more vertebrae.

Abstract: A medical device, comprising: a medical strut; a preloader configured to store energy, wherein the medical strut is configured to transform the energy stored in the preloader to a first force applicable to a bodily tissue; an actuator configured to apply a second force to adjust the length of the medical strut, thereby facilitating the transforming the stored energy to the first force; and a controller configured to control the actuator.