Abstract: Temporary, radiographically opaque, bone markers having first and second penetration members that are concentric with one another and are configured to pierce bone are provided herein. Bone markers can non-exclusively be used to help verify the correct surgical site along the vertebrae, locate the vertical midline, and as a fixed point for aligning surgical instruments. Insertion and extraction devices for use with the bone markers are also provided herein.

Abstract: Temporary, radiographically opaque, bone markers having first and second penetration members that are concentric with one another and are configured to pierce bone are provided herein. Bone markers can non-exclusively be used to help verify the correct surgical site along the vertebrae, locate the vertical midline, and as a fixed point for aligning surgical instruments. Insertion and extraction devices for use with the bone markers are also provided herein.

Abstract: Low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies and methods of use are disclosed herein. The plate assemblies herein are useful for coupling adjacent vertebral bodies together. Preferred vertebral plates assemblies herein are low-profile, meaning that the assemblies herein are positioned partially within and partially outside of the intervertebral space. Additional teachings are directed to hinged low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies that allow slight flexion towards the vertebral bodies in a sufficient amount to prevent kyphosis, and encourage a desired amount of lordosis.

Abstract: A precisely size matched intervertebral plate and spacer assembly for ensuring a tight fit within a disc space to promote spinal fusion, comprising: a “U-shaped” spacer configured to fit within the intervertebral space; and, a matching countersunk low profile “H-shaped” anterior plate joined perpendicularly to the spacer. The plate further comprises: a plurality of anchor members configured to attach to the junctions of the anterior cortex faces and the endplates; and, channels individually traversing through the anchor members for inserting screws into the vertebral bodies' cortical bone. The spacer comprises a hollow three-sided U-shaped member, comprising two opposing parallel side walls, and a perpendicular posterior wall, while lacking a superior, inferior, and anterior wall.

Abstract: Low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies and methods of use are disclosed herein. The plate assemblies herein are useful for coupling adjacent vertebral bodies together. Preferred vertebral plates assemblies herein are low-profile, meaning that the assemblies herein are positioned partially within and partially outside of the intervertebral space. Additional teachings are directed to hinged low-profile anterior vertebral plate assemblies that allow slight flexion towards the vertebral bodies in a sufficient amount to prevent kyphosis, and encourage a desired amount of lordosis.

Abstract: Template systems and methods of use are disclosed herein for use in conjunction with corresponding spinal fusion plates. Preferred templates are slotted to allow for use with distractor pins and a distractor. Additionally preferred templates include windows to allow the operating surgeon to have more visibility of the intervertebral area, including the graft. After the appropriate sized template has been placed against the targeted vertebrae, holding pins can be placed into the vertebral bodies to help guide the fusion plate and to compress the intervertebral space.

Abstract: Temporary, radiographically opaque, bone markers having first and second penetration members that are concentric with one another and are configured to pierce bone are provided herein. Bone markers can non-exclusively be used to help verify the correct surgical site along the vertebrae, locate the vertical midline, and as a fixed point for aligning surgical instruments. Insertion and extraction devices for use with the bone markers are also provided herein.

Abstract: Template systems and methods of use are disclosed herein for use in conjunction with corresponding spinal fusion plates. Preferred templates are slotted to allow for use with distractor pins and a distractor. Additionally preferred templates include windows to allow the operating surgeon to have more visibility of the intervertebral area, including the graft. After the appropriate sized template has been placed against the targeted vertebrae, holding pins can be placed into the vertebral bodies to help guide the fusion plate and to compress the intervertebral space.

Abstract: A retractor, a distractor, and a drill guide for use in performing anterior cervical discectomy and vertebral fusion. The distractor is located with respect to vertebrae to be fused by pins fastened in the vertebrae to be fused, and the retractor is mated mechanically with the distractor to hold the retractor in a required location. Blade carrying arms of the retractor are both moved toward or away from a central part of the retractor.