Abstract: The present invention provides an implant that can be inserted on top of a previously placed spinal fixation element. The implant includes a bone anchor and a connector body. The bone anchor includes a proximal head and a distal shaft extending along a longitudinal axis configured to engage bone. The connector body is configured to engage the proximal head of bone anchor and engage a spinal fixation element offset from longitudinal axis of the bone anchor shaft. Because, the implant is inserted over the spinal fixation element, direct visualization of the surgical site is available during insertion. In addition, the implant may provide tactile or audible feedback indicating that the spinal fixation element has been engaged by the implant.

Abstract: A threaded fastener holder holds a screw in place and then automatically disengages from the screw and withdraws axially in the proximal direction to permit the user to continue inserting the screw without interruption. The threaded fastener holder has a shaft having a distal end for selectively engaging with a head of a threaded fastener. An inner sleeve surrounds at least a portion of the shaft, and is axially movable with respect to the shaft. The inner sleeve has a plurality of spring fingers disposed at its distal end, each of which has a distal end that is radially movable so as to be selectively engageable with the head of the threaded fastener. A first end of a spring is fixed with respect to the inner sleeve. The second end of the spring is fixed with respect to the shaft. In the rest position, the distal end of the plurality of spring fingers is axially spaced from the distal end of the shaft.

Abstract: A system and method for configuring custom medical devices is provided. The system and method can be used over a communications network, and/or can be provided to users as an application, such as a software program. In general, the system includes a database of medical device components, configuration options available for each component, and rules governing the interdependencies of the components and component options. The system allows a user to select from device components and options for each component to configure a custom built medical device.