Abstract: Various exemplary instruments for introducing an implant using a posterolateral approach are also provided, as well as various exemplary methods for using such instruments. In general, the instruments are configured to interconnect to an implant and/or to a guide member such that the components are all docked relative to one another. This allows the various components of a multi-piece implant to be mated intraoperatively within the disc space, and in particular to be guided into alignment with one another.

Abstract: A bone anchoring device for securing suture or cable within a bone hole of a bone includes an anchor member and a cable. The anchor member includes engagement ribs and an axial cutout. The axial cutout further includes a cutout surface and at least one pin that extends radially outward from the cutout surface. The cable is secured to the anchor member by penetrating the cable with the pins that extend radially from the axial cutout surface, such that the cable distal end aligns with the anchor distal end and that the cable proximal end extends beyond the anchor proximal end. This results in a bone anchoring device in which failure due to low pullout strength of the cable is greatly minimized or eliminated.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are spinal fixation devices and tools for implanting the same. In one embodiment, an implantable spinal fixation plate and a guide device are provided and they include features that allow the two devices to removably mate to one another. As a result, the guide device can be used to position and hold the plate against bone while inserting drills, taps, awls, and other bone preparation devices through the guide device. The guide device can also be configured to allow fasteners to be inserted therethrough and into bone to attach the plate to bone.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are spinal fixation devices and tools for implanting the same. In one embodiment, an implantable spinal fixation plate and a guide device are provided and they include features that allow the two devices to removably mate to one another. As a result, the guide device can be used to position and hold the plate against bone while inserting drills, taps, awls, and other bone preparation devices through the guide device. The guide device can also be configured to allow fasteners to be inserted therethrough and into bone to attach the plate to bone.