Abstract: Methods and apparatus for inserting an implant into an intervertebral cavity between adjacent vertebral bodies provide for: adjust an initial height between inner surfaces of respective first and second ramps of an inserter; simultaneously sliding first and second ramps of the inserter, and the implant, proximally, toward distal ends of the first and second ramps, such that the vertebral contact surfaces of the respective first and second ramps separate and distract the vertebral bodies and receive the implant into the intervertebral space with no compressive loading, while holding an initial angle between the ramps substantially constant; reversing the sliding of the first and second ramps to permit the vertebral bodies to compressively load the implant, again while holding the initial angle therebetween substantially constant; and withdrawing the distal ends of the first and second ramps from the intervertebral space.

Abstract: A rod reducing device includes an elongate member, a pair of jaw members, a sleeve having a cam pin, and an actuation lever. Translation of the cam pin along the inner surfaces of the jaw members pivotally moves the jaw members between a receiving position in which distal end portions of the respective jaw members are widened and an engaging position in which the distal end portions of the respective jaw members are move toward each other to engage the head of the bone screw. The actuation lever is movable between an open in which a distal end portion of the sleeve is disposed proximal of the distal end portions of the jaw members and a closed position in which the distal end portion of the sleeve is disposed distal of the distal end portions of the jaw members for reducing the connecting rod.

Abstract: A device, system and method for orthopedic spine surgery using a screw-based retractor, are disclosed herein and allows for access to the spine through a minimally or less invasive approach. The retractor device is designed to be coupled to a pedicle screw and then to have opposed arms of the retractor spread apart to open the wound proximally. The retractor is removed by separating the opposed blades to allow the retractor portions to be pulled out of the wound. The retractor is intended to be made of a flexible metal material, sterile packaged and disposable after one use. A system and method for using the retractor and performing a minimally invasive spine surgical procedure are also disclosed.

Abstract: A minimally invasive retractor assembly includes a posted screw and one or more retractor blades. Each retractor blade is releasably coupled to the posted screw. The retractor blade or blades are manipulated or flexed relative to the posted screw allowing retraction of tissue surrounding the incision. The retractor is made of a biocompatible material, sterile packaged and disposable after one use. A system and method for using the retractor and performing a minimally invasive spine surgical procedure are also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable occipital plate includes a central body portion having a plurality of arms extending therefrom in a generally Y-shaped configuration. Two of the arms include elongate slots for slidably receiving retaining members therein. Each retaining member includes a U-shaped channel for receiving a spine rod and a set screw. The central body portion and one arm include openings for receiving bone screws therein. Each of the arms may be angled with respect to the central body portion.

Abstract: An interbody spacer includes a connecting portion and a pair of leg portions extending from the connecting portion. The connecting portion and the pair of leg portions define top and bottom surfaces configured and adapted to engage first and second vertebral bodies, respectively, and inner and outer sidewalls extending between the top and bottom surfaces. In particular, the top and bottom surfaces of the leg portions include first projections defining a first angle with the respective top and bottom surfaces of the leg portions. The top and bottom surfaces of the connecting portion include second projections defining a second angle with the respective top and bottom surfaces of the connecting portion. The first and second angles are different.

Abstract: An orthopedic device is described for stabilizing the spinal column between first and second vertebral bodies. The device has first and second screws adapted for fixation to the first and second vertebral bodies, respectively. The device further includes an elongated ligament with a first end connected to the first screw and the second end operatively connected with the second screw. The ligament is made preferably of a nickel titanium alloy selected to have ductile inelastic properties at body temperature and is capable of plastic deformation to allow relative constrained motion between the vertebral bodies. The preferred nickel titanium has a martensite/austenite transition temperature above body temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the second pedicle screw includes a bearing for receiving the ligament in a slidably engageable relationship. The device further includes optional first and second dampening members surrounding the ligament for restraining the spinal column during flexion and extension.

Abstract: A surgical access device includes a frame defining an aperture, first and second support members mounted on the frame, and first and second retractor blades releasably coupled with the first and second support members, respectively. The first and second retractor blades each include a distal portion defining a recess having an arcuate profile, wherein the first and second retractor blades are movable between a close cooperative position and a spaced apart position with respect to each other.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes a body portion defining a longitudinal axis. The body portion includes a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, anterior and posterior walls that extend between the distal and proximal end portions, and top and bottom surfaces. At least one of the top and bottom surfaces includes a plurality of substantially concentrically arranged ridges configured and adapted to engage vertebral bodies. In particular, the plurality of substantially concentrically arranged ridges are a plurality of ring-shaped protrusions that define a generally saw-tooth pattern in a radial direction.

Abstract: Provided is a device and method for replacing a diseased or damaged intervertebral disc in the spine of a patient. The device provided having at least two units, each of the units having an articulation surface and a bone contacting surface, the articulation surfaces of each of the at least two being in articulating opposition one to the other, one of which having a convex articulation surface and the other having a complementary concave articulation surface. The bone contacting surfaces being provided with bone implantation securing elements such as keel type or spike type protrusions. Also provided is a method of implanting the device into an intervertebral space from a posterior approach.

Abstract: The present invention provides an orthopedic device assembly comprising a first assembly element, a second assembly element, and a retaining mechanism. The first assembly element has a recess that receives the second assembly element, and the retaining mechanism holds the second element in an assembled state with the first assembly element. The retaining mechanism includes a retaining member with an angular cross-section defined by a base portion and a lateral flange portion projecting from the base portion. The retaining member is inserted through an aperture of the first assembly element into a groove in a wall of the recess of the first assembly element, with the flange portion projecting laterally of the groove and overhanging a shoulder portion of the second assembly element so as to retain the second assembly element in the assembled state with the first assembly element.

Abstract: The present invention features new methods, apparatuses and devices for fixing adjacent bone segments, segments of a bony structure and adjacent vertebrate of a spine. The methods, apparatuses and devices utilize a new apparatus for forming a channel in a surface of the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra or a channel submerged within the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra. In more particular embodiments such apparatuses and methods including forming an arcuate channel and which channel can receive therein a curved rod or implant member, which also preferably is arcuate, and avoids the associated problems with prior cage or straight rod and screw systems. Also featured are systems, apparatuses and methods for repairing, replacing or augmenting the nucleus and/or annulus of a disc.

Abstract: A retraction device comprises at least one retracting blade and a pedicle screw. The retracting blade has a distal end having at least one projection with a passage for engaging a retention pin. The pedicle screw has a threaded body and a movable head. The movable head has at least one recess with a channel that can be aligned with the passage of the projection.

Abstract: A forced growth axial growing spine device includes a central body portion having opposing ends. At least one housing is disposed at one end of the central body portion. The at least one housing includes a locking mechanism. At least one rigid member is coupled to the central body portion. The locking mechanism allows the rigid member to translate in one direction and inhibits translation of the rigid member in an opposing direction. Additionally, the central body portion includes a cam and at least one port. One or more ball bearings may be inserted into the ports. Operation of the cam in conjunction with the ball bearing urges the rigid member away from the cam, thereby increasing an overall length of the forced growth axial growing spine device.

Abstract: Provided is a novel multi-planar taper lock screw for connecting a connecting rod to bone. The screw is capable of multi-directional articulation while the connecting rod position can remain stable and aligned as needed. After the screw had been articulated and properly positioned, it can be locked such that the screw and the connecting rod will remain in relative position to the bone. The screw is configured for easy insertion and connection as well as easy removal and disconnection from the connecting rod. Also provided is a system for fixing two or more bones or bone fragments and a kit for fixing bones or bone fragments. A method of fixing bones or bone fragments is also provided.

Abstract: A surgical access device including a frame, first and second supports, and first and second retractor blades releasably coupled with the first and second supports, respectively. The frame has first and second arms. The first support is releasably coupled with the first and second arms. The second support is slidably mounted on the first and second arms. The second support is movable between a first position with the retractor blades in close cooperative position and a spaced apart position with respect to the first support. The first and second retractor blades each have a distal end portion configured and adapted to engage a vertebral body. In one method of use, the retractor is inserted through an incision in first orientation with the blades in close approximation and rotated approximately 90°, before spreading the retractor blades to retract tissue.

Abstract: A spinal plate that is self-adjusting along its longitudinal axis to accommodate subsidence that may occur and aid in loading the bone graft to promote boney fusion while providing rigid fixation. The spinal plate is configured to inhibit loosening or backing out of bone screws.

Abstract: A retractor for use in spinal procedures is disclosed. The retractor includes a first frame member defining a first recess and a second frame member pivotally connected to the first frame member. The second frame member defines a second recess. The retractor further includes a first blade assembly operably received within the first recess and a second blade assembly operably received within the second recess. The first blade assembly includes a first blade configured to pivot relative to the first frame member and a first blade extender selectively extendable from the first blade. The second blade assembly includes a second blade configured to translate within the second recess and a second blade extender selectively extendable from the second blade.

Abstract: A manipulation device includes a body portion, a plurality of articulatable legs, and at least one lock member. The legs extend from the body portion. Each of the legs is configured to engage a surgical instrument at a distal end thereof. Each of the legs is transitionable between an unlocked condition, wherein the leg is free to articulate, and a locked condition, wherein the leg is fixed in position. The at least one lock member is operably disposed within the body portion and is coupled to at least one of the articulatable legs. The lock member is rotatable relative to the body portion between an unlocked position and a locked position for transitioning the at least one articulatable leg coupled thereto between the unlocked condition and the locked condition.

Abstract: A spinal spacer for engagement between vertebrae includes a body extending between a substantially contoured first end surface and a second end surface to define side surfaces and opposing top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces substantially symmetrical about a centerline axis. At least one opening defines a hollow inner body and includes first and second intersecting openings extending through the top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces. The second intersecting opening extends through the side surfaces. The second end surface includes at least one aperture formed therethrough in communication with the hollow inner body. A screw opening is defined through at least one plate insert configured to be removably coupled to the second end surface to substantially align the screw opening with the at least one aperture. The bone screw is configured to be threadingly secured within the at least one plate insert.