Abstract: An elongated connecting element for use in a spinal stabilization system comprises a first section, a second section, a first elastomer disposed within the first section, and a second elastomer disposed between the first section and the second section. One of the first elastomer and the second elastomer resists movement of the first section and the second section toward each other and the other of the first elastomer and the second elastomer resists movement of the first section and the second section away from each other.

Abstract: Instruments and methods are provided for delivering multiple implants to multiple implant locations in a patient without requiring a second implant to be loaded onto or engaged to the delivery instrument after delivery of a first implant. The implants can be sequentially engaged using the delivery instrument to the patient or to receptacles of one or more receiving members secured to the patient.

Abstract: A cage device is disclosed that includes, in one embodiment, a body and a pair of pedicle tabs attached thereto and potentially for connecting other orthopedic devices, such as anchors, screws, or rods, to the vertebral body replacement and potentially other vertebrae. The body also has a central opening for receiving orthopedic devices and/or osteogenic material.

Abstract: An orthopedic implant device is non-rigid, i.e., flexible and/or malleable, in a first form for insertion into a desired in vivo site, and then transformable into a rigid, or hardened, form for providing a load-bearing function or providing other structural and/or mechanical function after implant. The device includes a biocompatible sheath and a curable material sealed within the sheath. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the device and is structured to rigidize in a second form after insertion to an in vivo location as a result of application of a cure-initiating energy to the material prior to insertion. Related methods and kits are also provided.

Abstract: Orthopedic implant devices are positioned at a desired in vivo site by positioning a device that is non-rigid, i.e., flexible and/or malleable, in a first form, and then transformable after insertion to the in vivo site into a rigid, or hardened, form for providing a load-bearing function or providing other structural and/or mechanical function after implant. The device includes a biocompatible sheath and a curable material sealed within the sheath. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the device and is structured to rigidize in a second form after application of a quantity of an initiating energy to the material.

Abstract: A device is provided that is non-rigid, i.e., flexible and/or malleable, in a first form, and then transformable after insertion to an in vivo site into a rigid, or hardened, form; a cure-initiating energy is applied to the device; and the device is then positioned in the in vivo site where it hardens to provide a load-bearing function or other structural and/or mechanical function. The device includes a biocompatible sheath and a curable material sealed within the sheath. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the device and is structured to rigidize in a second form after application of a quantity of an initiating energy to the material.

Abstract: Orthopedic implants include a device that is non-rigid, i.e., flexible and/or malleable, in a first form for insertion into a desired in vivo site, and then transformable into a rigid, or hardened, form for providing a load-bearing function or providing other structural and/or mechanical function after implant. The device includes a biocompatible sheath and a curable material sealed within the sheath. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the device and is structured to rigidize in a second form after application of a quantity of an initiating energy to the material. Related methods and kits are also provided.

Abstract: Tissue retraction devices and methods include a tissue retractor with a radiolucent portion to permit imaging through the radiolucent portion with X-ray, fluoroscopic or other suitable imaging system. The tissue retractor also includes one or more radio-opaque elements that define at least a portion of a perimeter of the radiolucent portion to provide an indication of the retractor location in the patient via the imaging system.

Abstract: Orthopedic devices include a body having an internal chamber housing a curable material. At least a portion of the body provides a barrier member structured to transmit an energy source therethrough to contact the curable material disposed in the internal chamber. The curable material is provided in a first form that provides flexibility to the body and is structured to rigidize in a second form when exposed to the energy source.

Abstract: A glaucoma shunt includes a plate having filtration and fixation portions. In some embodiments the filtration portion includes a surface provided with stiffening ribs which increase rigidity and an upper surface provided with a ridge. The fixation portion extends anteriorly to facilitate access thereto. A drainage tube is recessed within the plate and extends through the ridge to a central portion of the filtration portion. By emptying the tube at the central portion of the filtration portion, the tube outlet is distanced from perimetric scar tissue which can otherwise obstruct the tube outlet. The ridge keeps tissue over the plate spaced from the outlet of the tube to further facilitate drainage.