Abstract: A stratum to be affixed to bone is disclosed. The stratum has a first surface, a second surface, and at least one hole extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the second surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the bone, and wherein the stratum further has a slot in the stratum that extends from the at least one hole to another location on the stratum, and the stratum is further configured to deflect, allowing a fastener to pass at least partially through the hole.

Abstract: A system for affixing at least two portions of bone is provided. The system has a first end cap, a second end cap, and a linking member extending between the first end cap and the second end cap, wherein the first end cap has at least one leg configured to connect the linking member to the first end cap and configured to retain said connection.

Abstract: A stratum to be affixed to bone is disclosed. The stratum has a first surface, a second surface, and at least one hole extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the second surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the bone, and wherein the stratum is further configured to deflect, allowing a fastener to pass at least partially through the hole.

Abstract: A bone screw and method of inserting a bone screw into a bone is disclosed. In one example, the bone screw includes a tip segment for creating a starter hole in the bone. A pilot segment is located proximally of the tip segment for creating a pilot hole in the bone after creation of the starter hole. The starter hole and pilot hole are created by a longitudinal pushing force exerted on the bone screw by the surgeon. A threaded segment is located proximally of the pilot segment for fixedly securing the bone screw in the bone by the use of a rotational force exerted on the bone screw by the surgeon. A head is located proximally of the threaded segment for allowing the bone screw to affix an implant or other soft tissue to the bone. In one embodiment the implant is a plate.