Abstract: A medical apparatus for use proximate a surgery location on a spine of a subject includes a first lateral support member and a second lateral support member, each lateral support member coupled to a portion of the spine proximate a first vertebra. A transverse connection member has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion therebetween, with the first end coupled to the first lateral support member and the second end coupled to the second lateral support member. A first extension member has a first end and a second end, with the first end coupled to the intermediate portion of the transverse connection member, and the second end coupled to a spinous process of a second vertebra.

Abstract: Medical apparatuses for restricting the motion of a vertebra relative to another vertebra and methods for using the apparatuses are provided herein. The medical apparatuses comprise a flexible element having two ends and a connector capable of securing the ends of the flexible element to a first vertebra disposed above or below a second vertebra or to a spinal device. The flexible element is disposed across at least a portion of one or more vertebral elements of the second vertebra and is tensioned to restrict the motion of the second vertebra relative to the first vertebra.

Abstract: Intervertebral disc prostheses are provided. More particularly, the invention provides disc prostheses that have adjustable disc heights, that are readily converted into fusion prostheses and that provide a range of motions that effectively mimic the natural range of motions of a spinal disc.

Abstract: A medical apparatus for alleviating the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis have a body including first and second supports disposed along the length of the body. The first support is configured to accommodate at least a portion of a vertebral component of a first vertebra disposed above or below a second vertebra. The second support is configured to accommodate at least a portion of a vertebral component of the second vertebra. The distance between the supports is sufficient to increase the space between the first vertebra and the second vertebra. Methods for using the apparatus include implanting the apparatus into a subject.