Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for the treatment of disc disease and spinal deformities with an artificial disc replacement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tissue shaping device adapted to be disposed in a vessel near a patient's heart to reshape the patient's heart. The device comprises a first anchor and a second anchor adapted to be deployed by a catheter to engage a vessel wall while the first anchor is adapted to resist the compression of a first part of the first anchor and resist the expansion of a second part of the first anchor in response to a compressive force on the first part.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a tissue shaping device (such as a percutaneous mitral valve annuloplasty device) adapted to be deployed in a vessel to reshape tissue adjacent the vessel. In some embodiments, the tissue shaping device includes a first anchor comprising a flexible wire comprising first and second arms, the first anchor having a deployed configuration in which its width is greater than its height; a second anchor comprising a flexible wire comprising first and second arms; and a connector disposed between the first anchor and the second anchor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking mechanism and method of locking the relative positions of a fixation device like a bone screw and of a stabilization device like a rod. The locking mechanism includes a seat, a washer and a cap. The seat includes a bottom portion configured to receive the fixation device such that a socket of the bottom portion engages part of the fixation device and prevents the fixation device from passing entirely therethrough. The seat further includes a side portion configured to receive the stabilization device, a washer and a cap. When the washer and cap are fully engaged with the seat, the fixation device may be locked independent of the stabilization device. The locking mechanism may also include a locking element for locking the stabilization device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking mechanism and method of fixation, such as the fixation of a fixation device like a bone screw and of a stabilization device like a rod to the spine. The locking mechanism includes a seat and a locking element. The seat includes a bottom portion configured to receive the fixation device such that a socket of the bottom portion engages part of the fixation device and prevents the fixation device from passing entirely therethrough. The seat further includes a side portion configured to receive the stabilization device and a locking element. The locking element, when fully engaged with the side portion of the seat, causes locking of the relative positions of the fixation device and the stabilization device.