Abstract: Various methods and apparatus for dynamic stabilization of bones, and especially of vertebra. Disclosed herein are bushings that permit axial movement of a rod, tether, or similar interconnection device relative to an anchoring head that is coupled to a bone. Some bushings further allow lateral relative movement or rotational relative movement, such additional relative movement being limited by the size and shape of the bushing, the size and shape of the interconnection device, the size and shape of the bushing container, the manner of attaching the anchoring head to the bone, or other considerations.

Abstract: A system is provided for aligning an intramedullary nail for implantation when the intramedullary nail has an intramedullary nail body having a first end having a first interlocking profile and the intramedullary nail body has a first through hole extending therethrough about a first axis. The system comprises an alignment device adapted and configured to be separable from the intramedullary nail. The system also comprises a holding fixture comprising a channel and a projection adapted and configured to cooperatively receive the intramedullary nail in the channel such that the projection extends within the first through hole and the first axis aligns with a through hole of the alignment device when the first interlocking profile is engaged with an interlocking profile of the alignment device.

Abstract: A tool for manipulating the position of an implantable medical device. In some embodiments the tool includes a readily releasable grasping feature that securely couples the implant to the tool while the implant is being manipulated. Preferably, the user can simply release the implant from the tool. The tool in other embodiments includes an internal pathway for accommodating non-linear implants, such as curved rods, wires, or nails. In yet other embodiments the tool has multiple handles, each handle being adapted and configured to permit manipulation of the implant in a single predetermined orientation, but with alternative handles for grasping in different hand orientations. Still further embodiments pertain to a kit having a tool and a plurality of collets, each collet being adapted and configured to grasp a different size of implant, but each collet having identical tool coupling features such that any collet in the kit can be used with the single tool.

Abstract: A means of fastening an intramedullary nail to the surface of a bone.

Abstract: A tool for manipulating the position of an implantable medical device. In some embodiments the tool includes a readily releasable grasping feature that securely couples the implant to the tool while the implant is being manipulated. Preferably, the user can simply release the implant from the tool. The tool in other embodiments includes an internal pathway for accommodating non-linear implants, such as curved rods, wires, or nails. In yet other embodiments the tool has multiple handles, each handle being adapted and configured to permit manipulation of the implant in a single predetermined orientation, but with alternative handles for grasping in different hand orientations. Still further embodiments pertain to a kit having a tool and a plurality of collets, each collet being adapted and configured to grasp a different size of implant, but each collet having identical tool coupling features such that any collet in the kit can be used with the single tool.

Abstract: A means of fastening an intramedullary nail to the surface of a bone.