Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing an osteotomy. One embodiment includes a kit comprising a bone plate, a bridging device, and a spreading device. The bridge is configured to hold open the incision in the bone, whether the spreading device is inserted into the bone, or the bone plate is attached to the bone. The spreading device preferably includes a scissors-type mechanism for spreading two wedge-shaped members apart, contemplating both pivotal and displacement movements of one wedging member relative to another wedging member. The spring device preferably includes an ergonomic grip for the hand of the physician, and a hammering surface useful in inserting the spreading device into the incision.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing an osteotomy. One embodiment includes a kit comprising a bone plate, a bridging device, and a spreading device. The bridge is configured to hold open the incision in the bone, whether the spreading device is inserted into the bone, or the bone plate is attached to the bone. The spreading device preferably includes a scissors-type mechanism for spreading two wedge-shaped members apart, contemplating both pivotal and displacement movements of one wedging member relative to another wedging member. The spring device preferably includes an ergonomic grip for the hand of the physician, and a hammering surface useful in inserting the spreading device into the incision.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing an osteotomy. One embodiment includes a kit comprising a bone plate, a bridging device, and a spreading device. The bridge is configured to hold open the incision in the bone, whether the spreading device is inserted into the bone, or the bone plate is attached to the bone. The spreading device preferably includes a scissors-type mechanism for spreading two wedge-shaped members apart, contemplating both pivotal and displacement movements of one wedging member relative to another wedging member. The spring device preferably includes an ergonomic grip for the hand of the physician, and a hammering surface useful in inserting the spreading device into the incision.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing an osteotomy. One embodiment includes a kit comprising a bone plate, a bridging device, and a spreading device. The bridge is configured to hold open the incision in the bone, whether the spreading device is inserted into the bone, or the bone plate is attached to the bone. The spreading device preferably includes a scissors-type mechanism for spreading two wedge-shaped members apart, contemplating both pivotal and displacement movements of one wedging member relative to another wedging member. The spring device preferably includes an ergonomic grip for the hand of the physician, and a hammering surface useful in inserting the spreading device into the incision.

Abstract: Methods may include detecting whether a data message alert is stored in a dedicated alert field within a memory of the medical device upon interrogating the medical device with a programmer. The methods may also include communicating the data message alert via the programmer in response to detecting the data message alert stored in the dedicated alert field. A system may include a programmer, a medical device, and a link between the programmer and the medical device. The programmer is operative to provide, detect, and communicate a data message alert stored on the medical device in a dedicated alert field. The dedicated alert field is a free form data field having the capability to store the data message alert in any data format. The programmer is also operative to communicate the data message alert in any data format in which the data message alert is stored.