Abstract: Cross connectors, kits, and methods useful in the treatment of bones, such as vertebrae, are described herein. An example cross connector is comprised of a first member, a second member, a saddle, a locking member, and a stop member. The first member is pivotally, rotatably, and slidably moveable within a passageway defined by the second member.

Abstract: Medical devices suitable for implantation in spaces between bones are described. An example medical device suitable for use as an intervertebral spacer includes a main body having an exterior proximal wall, an exterior distal wall, a first exterior lateral wall, a second exterior lateral wall, an upper surface, a lower surface, an interior proximal wall, an interior distal wall, a first interior lateral wall, a second interior lateral wall, and a longitudinal axis. The interior proximal wall, the interior distal wall, the first interior lateral wall, and the second interior lateral wall cooperatively define an interior cavity. The first and second exterior lateral walls are outwardly directed at an angle from the lower surface to the upper surface relative to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Anchor towers useful in the alteration of a position of an item connected to an anchor are described. An anchor tower includes an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve disposed over and operably connected to the inner sleeve such that movement of the outer sleeve results in movement of the inner sleeve. A groove is disposed on the inner sleeve and an inwardly-extending projection is disposed on the outer sleeve. Relative movement between the inner and outer sleeves results in movement of the projection within the groove. This movement can produce desired movement of a portion of the inner sleeve, such as a distal arm, based on a structural configuration of the groove.

Abstract: Anchor assemblies useful for connecting structures to each other are described. An anchor assembly includes a head member and an anchor. In the fully assembled anchor assembly, the anchor is partially disposed within the head member. During assembly, the proximal end of the anchor can be inserted into an opening defined by a distal end of the head member. A retaining member maintains a portion of the anchor within a portion of the head member after assembly. In an embodiment, a compression member enables movement of the retaining member within the head member to allow insertion of a portion of the anchor and subsequent maintenance of the portion of the anchor within a portion of the head member.

Abstract: Rod insertion tools, rods and methods for placing rods in patients are described. An exemplary spinal rod insertion tool comprises a handle, a main body connected to the handle, a rod engaging member disposed within an inner passageway defined by the main body and adapted to move from an extended position to a chambered position in which the rod engaging member distal end is disposed within the inner passageway, and an adjustment mechanism operably connected to the rod engaging member and adapted to cause movement of the rod engaging member from the extended position to the chambered position.

Abstract: Rod insertion tools, rods and methods for placing rods in patients are described. An exemplary spinal rod insertion tool comprises a handle, a main body connected to the handle, a rod engaging member disposed within an inner passageway defined by the main body and adapted to move from an extended position to a chambered position in which the rod engaging member distal end is disposed within the inner passageway, and an adjustment mechanism operably connected to the rod engaging member and adapted to cause movement of the rod engaging member from the extended position to the chambered position.