Abstract: A pressure applicator for applying pressure to a flowable implant material, e.g., PMMA. A pressure applicator or driver includes a pair of columns which are engageable with one another, preferably by threads to generate a driving pressure. A handle is provided for the operator to grasp and steady the device as he turns the handle to apply pressure to the implantable material within the applicator. A luer-lock or other connecting device is provided for attaching the applicator to a cannula (or a connecting conduit that in turns connects with a cannula) that will deliver the implant material to the desired site. Pressures of about 1000-3000 psi may be generated by this device.

Abstract: A substantially non-compliant conduit for delivery an implant material from a high pressure applicator to an implant delivery device. Also, a high pressure, substantially non-compliant system for delivery of accurate volumes of implant material to the desired site.

Abstract: An enhanced visibility composition for implantation from a remote source, so that the composition can be readily observed under fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques. The composition include a biocompatible matrix, such as a hard tissue implant material for example, and radiopaque particles mixed in the matrix. The radiopaque particles have a particle size between about 120&mgr; and 2200&mgr;, more preferably about 350&mgr; and 2200&mgr;, even more preferably between about 450&mgr; and 1600&mgr;, and most preferably between about 570&mgr; and 1150&mgr;. Preferably the hard tissue implant and the radiopaque particles are formed or prepared in a slurry. Optionally, the enhanced visibility composition may further include additional radiopaque particles or contrast particles mixed in with the composition, which have a particle size between about 120&mgr; and 350&mgr;, preferably between about 120&mgr; and 250&mgr;.

Abstract: An enhanced visibility composition for implantation from a remote source, so that the composition can be readily observed under fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques. The compositions include a biocompatible matrix, such as a hard tissue implant material for example, and radiopaque particles mixed in the matrix. The radiopaque particles have a particle size between about 120&mgr; and 2200&mgr;, more preferably about 350&mgr; and 2200&mgr;, even more preferably between about 450&mgr; and 1600&mgr;, and most preferably between about 570&mgr;0 and 1150&mgr;. Preferably the hard tissue implant and the radiopaque particles are formed or prepared in a slurry. Optionally, the enhanced visibility composition may further include additional radiopaque particles or contrast particles mixed in with the composition, which have a particle size between about 120&mgr; and 350&mgr;, preferably between about 120&mgr; and 250&mgr;.

Abstract: Precision depth guided instruments are provided for use in performing percutaneous implantation of hard tissue implant materials. A depth guided stylet include a point adapted for piercing hard tissue, and preferably, self-tapping threads for self-tapping into hard tissue. The stylet may include an elongated rod having a first section having a first diameter, and a second section having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. A cannula for use with a depth guided stylet includes an elongated tube having first and second open ends adapted for a depth guided stylet to pass therethrough. The cannula may include a pawl passing through the elongated tube for ratcheting against a rack of gear teeth provided on the stylet. Alternatively, a camming mechanism may be pivotal arranged on the stylet. Upon pivoting the camming mechanism, the cam surface provides a driving force against the cannula to drive the cannula along the stylet.

Abstract: Precision depth guided instruments are provided for use in performing percutaneous implantation of hard tissue implant materials. A depth guided stylet include a point adapted for piercing hard tissue, self-tapping threads for self-tapping into hard tissue, and, optionally, a second set of threads for meshing with threads within a overfitting cannula. The stylet may include an elongated rod having a first section having a first diameter, and a second section having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. A cannula for use with a depth guided stylet includes an elongated tube having first and second open ends adapted for a depth guided stylet to pass therethrough. The cannula may include threads along at least a portion of an interior circumference of the elongated tube, which are adapted to mate with threads on an exterior circumference of the depth guided stylet.