Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing portions of bone are provided. In some aspects, a bone plate system includes a plate configured to be fastened to at least one bone portion. The plate includes a keel slot and a locking assembly. The bone plate system also includes a keel configured to extend into the at least one bone portion through the keel slot. The locking assembly is configured to substantially prevent the keel from dislodging from the plate when the keel extends into the at least one bone portion through the keel slot.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for tissue fixation. In some aspects, an apparatus includes: a carrier member having a first part, a second part, and a junction therebetween; first attachment members protruding at a first angle from the first part toward the junction, where the first attachment members are configured to engage a first portion of connective tissue for attaching the first part to the first portion; and second attachment members protruding from the second part, where the second attachment members are configured to engage a second portion of connective tissue for attaching the second part to the second portion. When the first part is attached to the first portion and the second part is attached to the second portion, the first portion and the second portion are limited in being pulled apart from one another during physiological use of the connective tissue.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for tissue stabilization. Some aspects include a carrier member having a length, width, and thickness, wherein the length and width are each at least two times greater than the thickness; attachment members extending from the carrier member and that engage connective tissue; and stabilizing members, each of which can couple a respective attachment member to the carrier member and is substantially positionally fixed relative to the carrier member.

Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing and/or compressing portions of bone are provided. In some aspects, a bone plate system may comprise a plate having a bone engaging surface. The plate may be fastened to two bone portions having a joint line therebetween. The system may also include a keel projecting from the bone engaging surface. The keel may extend into the bone portions and span the joint line when the plate is fastened to the bone portions. In some aspects, a ratio of an average thickness of the plate to an average width of the plate may be less than or equal to about 0.11.

Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing and/or compressing portions of bone are provided. In some aspects, a bone plate system may comprise a plate having a bone engaging surface. The plate may be fastened to two bone portions having a joint line therebetween. The system may also include a keel projecting from the bone engaging surface. The keel may extend into the bone portions and span the joint line when the plate is fastened to the bone portions. In some aspects, a ratio of an average thickness of the plate to an average width of the plate may be less than or equal to about 0.11.